[Technology News] BMW Confirms 3 Series Gran Turismos

BMW officially confirmed Wednesday an expansion of its Gran Turismo line to its popular
3 Series, with the addition of 328i and 335i models.

The vehicles were scheduled for their respective world premieres at the Geneva Motor Show on March 5. But so many photos – both spy shots and leaked official images – had been published recently that BMW apparently decided to push the news forward.
BMW also confirmed the models would be sold in North America – something that had not previously been clear – starting this summer. Pricing was not immediately available.
The high-riding sedans, similar in stance and style to the 5 Series Gran Turismo, feature a higher seating position than a normal 3-Series, BMW said. They measure nearly eight inches longer than a 3-Series wagon, and enjoy a 4.3-inch lengthening of the wheelbase, for greater ride stability. The interior gains legroom and cargo area.

Trim levels will include an M Sport version. An active rear spoiler, which BMW says is a first for the company, will also be available.

The 328i will be powered by a twin-turbo 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that will produce 240 horspower – impressive for such a limited displacement. The 335i gets an inline-6 cylinder, 3.0-liter twin turbo engine that generates 300 horsepower.

Fuel economy numbers were also not given, but BMW reported that new eight-speed automatic transmissions installed in these models are more fuel efficient than other 3 Series models equipped with six-speed manuals.

Though BMW’s efforts at Gran Turismo styling have elicited polarizing responses from fans, reviewers and even dealers, BMW promises a more authentic family resemblance for these models. “The clever use of proportions, surfaces and lines,” the company said, “ensures that the 3 Series Gran Turismo is immediately recognizable as a BMW 3 Series.”