BMW reveals LWB 3-series 23 | 04 | 2012

BMW HAS LIFTED the covers from its new long-wheelbase 3-series at the Beijing Motor Show today. The extended version benefits from an extra 110mm, compared with the wheelbase of the standard car. The result is a significant increase rear in legroom.

To be built in China’s new Shenyang production plant, the long-wheelbase model will be available in 335Li, the 328Li, or 320Li versions.

It is though restricted solely to the Chinese market, where the German giant has sold 80,000 cars in the first three months of 2012: that's a 37% increase on the same period in 2011.

"China's sales performance is part of BMW's balanced, worldwide success," Ian Roberston, BMW's global sales boss, explained today.

"The first three months of 2012 have been our best start to any year globally, not just in China. We intend to continue that growth and claim the title of number one premium car company in the world once again."

Read our roadtest of the new BMW 320d and watch the car driven in Scotland

Keep up-to-date with all the latest news by following us on twitter.com/scotcars

Jim McGill