The BMW iX3 will take center stage at the 2026 Chengdu International Motor Show, where BMW will open pre-orders for its China-specific electric SUV while giving the Neue Klasse BMW i3 a more extensive public showing. The event will also highlight BMW’s latest driver-assistance and infotainment technology developed specifically for the Chinese market.
BMW iX3 Pre-Orders Begin August 21
BMW will reveal the full specifications, configurations, purchasing information and technology details for the new BMW iX3 at the Chengdu show. Pre-orders for the SUV will begin on the same day, August 21.
Unlike the European and North American iX3, the Chinese version features a longer wheelbase and was developed specifically for local customers.
BMW says the Chinese iX3 uses its Gen6 electric drivetrain and delivers more than 900 kilometers, or 559 miles, of range under the CLTC testing cycle. Its 800-volt electrical architecture supports charging at up to 400 kW.
Neue Klasse BMW i3 Gets a Bigger Showcase
The new BMW i3 will also receive a more extensive presentation in Chengdu. Like the iX3, the Chinese-market i3 was designed specifically for local customers.
BMW has previously said the model offers a maximum CLTC range exceeding 1,000 kilometers, or 621 miles. Differences from the rest-of-world version include the door handles and a longer wheelbase on cars with the “L” specification.
Both the iX3 and i3 were first presented earlier this year at Auto China in Beijing. The Chengdu show represents another step toward bringing the China-specific Neue Klasse models to customers.
BMW Will Show More Than Neue Klasse Models
BMW’s presence in Chengdu will extend beyond the Neue Klasse lineup. The automaker will officially launch the China-only BMW M3 Edition 40 Jahre at the show, while the 2027 BMW X3 will also be on display.
BMW will additionally use the event to detail its newest driver-assistance and infotainment technologies developed specifically for the Chinese market.
MINI Takes Its Chengdu Display Outside the Show Hall
MINI will take a different approach to the Chengdu event. Rather than limiting its presence to the exhibition hall, BMW says several customized MINI models will appear around popular shopping districts and city landmarks beginning August 21.
The strategy will effectively extend parts of the MINI display into Chengdu, reflecting the brand’s focus on personalization and lifestyle while exposing the vehicles to people outside the motor show itself.
Chengdu Motor Show Runs Through August 30
The 29th Chengdu International Motor Show will run from August 21 through August 30, 2026, at the Western China International Expo City. BMW’s primary display will be located in Hall 14.
The event comes as BMW faces a significant sales challenge in China. BMW has surpassed 2 million BMW 3 Series sales and more than 7 million sales across all models, but BMW and MINI sales were down 30.2% in the first half of 2026.
With BMW iX3 pre-orders beginning and the i3 moving closer to market, the Chengdu International Motor Show will provide an opportunity to see the automaker’s Neue Klasse strategy move closer to vehicles that Chinese customers can buy.
