It’s been a busy weekend at BMW as they unveiled a bunch of new models, one of them the new 3-Series Touring. The new estate version of the 3er builds on the success of its sedan sibling which has been praised by the press ever since it as launched. The Touring offers all the good stuff the sedan does, only it’s far more practical and roomy at the back. BMW calls is a premium sports estate.
Alright, let’s talk some numbers. The BMW 3 Series Touring is 97 millimetres longer than the sedan. The wheelbase too has grown by 50 millimetres. Luggage space is 495 litres with the rear seats up, but they have a 40:20:40 split/folding function so you can arrange them the way you want. The suspension is also tuned for more ride comfort.
Other practical features enhancing the luggage compartment include automatic tailgate with separate rear window opening, the stainless steel protective strip on the comfortably low loading sill (62 centimetres from the ground), the separate partition net and a luggage compartment cover that stows away neatly into an underfloor compartment.
Those are just the normal features. If you go through the options list you find some high-tech stuff as well. Things like adaptive attachment system with variable plug-in elements for the load compartment floor, the hands-free tailgate opening function as part of the Comfort Access option, and the electrically pivoting trailer coupling.
The Touring will launch with 3 models; BMW 328i, 330d and 320d, all of them benefiting from BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. You get the four-cylinder petrol with 180 kW/245 hp and revised 2-litre diesel with 135 kW/184 hp, as well as the optimized six-cylinder diesel developing 190 kW/ 258 hp.
Like all new BMWs, you get Driving Experience Control switch with ECO PRO mode on all models, for better fuel efficiency.
Another high-end feature that makes the new 3-Series Touring a class leader is the BMW Connected Drive system, and technologies like the latest-generation full-colour Head-Up Display, and BMW app for iPhone.
Pricing for the new Touring is yet to be announced.
