Happenings

BMW launches the 3 Series Gran Turismo

BY Keegan Gan

The all-new 3 Series Gran Turismo (GT) was recently launched in Singapore.

BMW Asia, together with Performance Motors Limited has finally launched the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, a car that features an innovative new concept, combining a sedan's dynamic movements with the practicality of a Tourer.

First introduced as a concept back in 2009 at the Frankfurt Auto Show, the 3 Series GT was created to appeal to customers looking for a smaller, sportier version of the 5 Series GT. Both the 3 Series GT and the 5 Series GT belong to the first generation of BMW\'s Progressive Activity Coupe (PAC) series - a marketing description of a car which combines the looks and functions of a sedan, an SUV, and a classic Gran Turismo.

In terms of styling, the 3 Series GT features typical BMW proportions, four doors with frameless windows, a coupe-esque design, sloping roof line and a large, automatically opening and closing tailgate. An active rear spoiler - the first of its type on a BMW - provides visual lightness and reduces lift at touring speeds.

As for proportions, the 3 Series GT is also longer than the 3 Series Sedan by 200mm, comes with a 110mm longer wheelbase and stands 79mm taller. However, with the clever use of proportions, surfaces and lines, the 3 Series GT is unmistakeably a member of the new 3 Series range.

For the interior, generous dimensions allow the passengers in every seat of the 3 Series GT to sit back and enjoy an impressive feeling of space. The front and rear passengers all benefit from a seating position increased by 59 mm, which provides an outstanding view out and makes entry and exit significantly more comfortable.

In addition, the 3 Series GT also offers extra headroom. The interior is complemented by its design forms, colour scheme and materials, which creates a lounge-style ambience thereby enabling passengers to enjoy short trips and long journeys alike in relaxed comfort.

High-end material combinations and fit and finish of the highest quality underline the premium ambience on board the new 3 Series GT. The latest addition to the 3 Series family can be ordered with the Sport Line or Luxury Line, as well as the optional M Sport package.

Driven by power plants that use BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, the 3 Series GT is available as the range-topping 306 bhp six-cylinder petrol engine under the bonnet of the 335i GT as well as a 245 bhp four-cylinder petrol unit in the 328i GT and the 184 bhp one in the 320i GT.