BMW 3-Series – A Longer And More Spacious 3-Series

BMW 3-Series – A Longer And More Spacious 3-Series

2014 BMW 3 Series GT

You're probably wondering why this 3-series looks swollen. Say hello to the new 3-series GT; it's longer and roomier than the 3-series saloon, and it's got a boot big enough to fit a mammoth. BMW will launch the new 3GT at the auto expo in February, and prices are expected to be around $ 7,055.01 - $ 7,383.15. So, the question is, does it make sense to spend the extra for the 3-series GT over the regular saloon?

The minute you approach the car, you notice that it looks very little like the regular 3-series from most angles. Your eyes are immediately drawn to the roofline that flows in one big bulbous arc to the elongated rear section, which looks completely different from the regular car. The nose is also fuller and a bit more exaggerated. The look may or may not find favor with Indian buyers; it's a matter of preference. We frankly cannot decide, it is both attractive and a bit strange.

The GT is much longer and the steeply raked rear pillar looks quite attractive

On the inside, BMW has done well to mask the car's bulky proportions. Step into the cabin and the first thing you'll notice is the amount of space available, both up front and in the back. Like we said earlier, this car is considerably longer, and sits on a longer wheelbase than the regular 3-series. Up front, you are seated a bit more upright in the GT, but you're still in familiar territory because the similar dash ensures it doesn't feel as different behind the wheel from the regular car. 

The boot is similar to what you've probably seen on the Skoda Superb, it's called a 'lift back' (the picture on the right side of the page will give you a better idea). The boot is massive — it's got 520 liters of space. The GT isn't just considerably longer, it's heavier too. Also, BMW has raised the ride height of the GT to make it more practical, especially useful on our broken roads. The rear is where you'll notice the big difference. There's far more legroom, the seats are more upright, though you do have the option of reclining them and getting in and out is also easier thanks to the higher seating position. Thigh support is also much better. The only grouse is the central tunnel which will make it difficult for the centre passenger to get comfortable.

Dashboard design is more or less the same as the regular 3-series

So, what's it like to drive? Have the gigantic proportions and extra weight taken away from the 3-series' excellent ride and handling combination? In a word, yes. Nut, it still feels like a BMW, so that's good. The steering is really accurate and the car takes corners well, the brakes are impressive, pedal feel is good, so you feel confident behind the wheel. Naturally, the massive rear is going to cause a bit of a problem — it just doesn't feel as well planted as a regular 3-series. The additional weight, higher ground clearance and long wheelbase rob it of the extra agility. But, BMW has set up this car for more relaxed driving. You're always comfortable on the inside, more so when you're cruising on the highway. Only large bumps filter through.

BMW will bring the GT 320d diesel to India first, followed by the 328i petrol at a later date. We drove the petrol and it felt as punchy as ever. The additional pulling power helps handle the extra weight of the GT and the smooth eight-speed gearbox lets you access the power in the mid-range and top-end easily.

BMW's 3GT makes sense or the Indian market, especially if you are chauffeur-driven. It's got more space and looks and feels like a larger car. And, it's almost as nice to drive as a regular 3-series, performance is adequate, handling is good and it even rides well. Get the 3 GT if you're looking for a spacious and sporty car that's slightly different from the regular crop, otherwise stick to the regular 3-series.

5 key facts:

·         Wheelbase of the GT is longer by 110mm over the standard car

·         It features frameless doors

·         The GT will first come in the 320d guise and then the 328i will be launched

·         It weighs around 150kg more than the regular 3-series

·         It's got 25mm more ground clearance