As the number of press conferences at the 2024 Chengdu Auto Show drew widespread media attention, BMW Group, leading an impressive lineup of vehicles, shone even brighter under the spotlight.
At the 2024 Chengdu Auto Show, which opened on August 30, BMW Group showcased a total of 13 new vehicles across its BMW and MINI brands, setting a record for the highest number of new cars presented at this event in its history.
Taking center stage was the all-new BMW M5, making its debut in China.
The BMW M5 has always served as a beacon of innovation for BMW M. This model represents the first high-performance hybrid sedan from BMW M, featuring the M Hybrid V8 performance hybrid technology derived from the 24 Hours of Le Mans endurance race. The hybrid powertrain comprises a 4.4-liter M-specific high-performance V8 twin-turbo engine paired with a high-performance electric motor, enhancing internal combustion engine efficiency and delivering more torque at low RPMs for an even more exhilarating driving experience, catering to fans' pursuit of ultimate driving pleasure.
This powertrain boasts a maximum output of 535 kW (727 horsepower) and a peak torque of 1000 Nm. Thanks to this, the all-new BMW M5 accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 3.5 seconds, and its mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h is even 0.1 seconds faster than the previous generation's most powerful version, the M5 CS, highlighting that only with full-time, full-range speed can one truly claim to be the "performance king" in its class.
All-new BMW M5
In fact, BMW has designated 2024 as a significant year for its M products. At this auto show, the new BMW M2 coupe, new BMW M3, the first domestically produced BMW M performance vehicle, the all-new BMW X1 M35Li, along with the revamped BMW M240i coupe, all made their debut, further enriching the BMW M series product line.
In terms of pricing, the suggested retail price for the new BMW M2 coupe is 608,000 yuan; the new BMW M3 Thunder Edition is priced at 863,900 yuan; the new BMW M3 M xDrive Thunder Edition is 913,900 yuan; the all-new BMW X1 M35Li is 409,900 yuan; and the BMW M240i coupe is priced at 419,900 yuan.
Another standout vehicle—the all-new BMW X3 long-wheelbase version—also made its global debut at the auto show.
The design of the new model embodies the main themes of a new era in BMW's design language: human-centered, exquisitely minimalist, and technologically inspired.
This marks the first time the BMW X3 has an extended wheelbase, which measures 2975 mm, aligning it with the standard wheelbase version of the BMW X5. The longer wheelbase further enhances rear passenger space.
It is reported that the all-new BMW X3 long-wheelbase version will be delivered in the first quarter of 2025, and the all-new BMW X3 M50 will be introduced domestically in the second quarter of next year.
All-new BMW X3 Long Wheelbase
Additionally, BMW Group announced that the BMW M Festival will return to Chengdu this November, offering BMW M owners and fans a performance celebration filled with "speed and passion."
In Chengdu, a vibrant yet laid-back city, Gao Xiang, President and CEO of BMW Group Greater China, reiterated BMW's commitment to "embracing change while staying true to oneself" in this competitive era.
Gao Xiang, President and CEO of BMW Group Greater China
Regarding future development, he stated, "Competition in the automotive industry is like a marathon; only by prioritizing responsibility can we maintain stability, and only through long-term thinking can we reach our goals. BMW places long-term customer interests as a top priority; we not only deliver satisfying products to our customers today but also prepare for the future with a clear product plan, confident in our direction for development."
