Images leaked out of a Chinese patent office have prematurely revealed the long-wheelbase version of the new second-generation BMW X1.

Built on the company’s modular UKL platform, the long-wheelbase X1 will be nearly four inches longer than the short-wheelbase variant that was introduced in Frankfurt last September. The extra sheet metal will free up additional leg room for the passengers riding in the back; alternatively, it will allow BMW to offer its smallest crossover with a third row of seats.

Mechanically, the long-wheelbase X1 will be identical to its short-wheelbase sibling. That means entry-level models will be powered by a 134-horsepower turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, while more expensive variants will benefit from a 2.0-liter turbo four tuned to make up to 228 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive will come standard, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system will be offered at an extra cost on select models.

The long-wheelbase BMW X1 is expected to make its official debut early next year. Enthusiast website BMW Blog reports the crossover is being developed exclusively for the Chinese market, and it’s unlikely to join the BMW lineup in Europe and in the United States. Unsurprisingly, the Munich-based car maker hasn’t commented on the report.

A new report indicates BMW’s Chinese division is preparing to launch an entry-level version of the long-wheelbase 7 Series powered by a four-cylinder engine.

Malaysian website PaulTan reports the base 7 — which will be dubbed 730Li — will be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine called B48 internally. Borrowed from the 3 Series, the turbo four will send approximately 252 horsepower and 258 lb-ft. of torque to the rear wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. Fuel economy and performance figures weren’t leaked.

The 730Li won’t be as well-equipped as a V12-powered 760Li, but that doesn’t mean it will be a stripped-down, bare-bones machine. BMW is mainly bringing it to the market so that private buyers and fleet operators can circumvent the stiff tariffs that the Chinese authorities slap on passenger cars powered by large-displacement engines.

BMW hasn’t revealed whether or not it’s preparing to introduce the first-ever four-cylinder-powered 7. If the rumor turns out to be true, the 730Li will be presented to the public in March of 2016 and it will go on sale across China shortly after. It’s not too far-fetched to speculate the downsized 7 won’t be offered in Europe and in the United States, where demand for a large sedan powered by a relatively small engine is low at best.

Note: Short-wheelbase 750i pictured. Photos by Drew Johnson.