The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo has landed in Australia, expanding the German manufacturer’s popular premium mid-sized range with new a niche that blurs the line between sedan and wagon.
BMW Australia’s 3 Series GT range comprises three grades – 320i GT, 320d GT and 328i GT – each one commanding a premium of slightly more than $10,000 over its 3 Series sedan equivalent.
Priced from $69,500, the BMW 320i GT is powered by a 135kW/270Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo petrol engine which launches the base model Bavarian hatch from 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds and consumes 6.2 litres per 100km on the combined cycle.
Employing a 135kW/380Nm four-cylinder diesel engine, the $71,800 BMW 320d sprints to triple figures in an identical 7.9sec yet uses 4.9L/100km combined.
The flagship $76,500 BMW 328i GT (below) scores a more powerful 180kW/350Nm 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol unit, which propels it from 0-100km/h in 6.1sec while consuming 6.5L/100km combined.
All three engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and come standard with stop-start and brake energy regeneration technology and an efficiency-maximising Eco Pro driving mode.
The 320i and 320d grades are equipped with automatic headlights, auto-dimming rear-view mirror, dual-zone climate control, leather upholstery, electric seats with memory settings, rear-view camera, and the business navigation system with 6.5-inch display screen, iDrive controller and USB input.
On top of this, the 328i adds electric lumbar support, an extra storage package, 40:20:40 split rear seat with reclining function, auto opening/closing tailgate, and the professional navigation system with 8.8-inch high-resolution display, DVD player, 3D maps, 20GB hard drive, internet functionality, Bluetooth audio streaming and a nine-speaker stereo system.
All BMW 3 Series GT models also come with one of three ‘Lines’ as standard – Modern, Luxury or Sports – to add further distinction to each vehicle.
A comprehensive options list includes dynamic enhancements like adaptive suspension and variable sports steering, as well as equipment upgrades like sports seats, head-up display, surround view camera system, lane change and departure warning, adaptive bi-xenon headlights and high-end Harmon Kardon audio systems.
