There hasn't been a 100% beautiful BMW in decades, so we already have low expectations when it comes to the 3 Series Gran Turismo. This cross between an executive sedan and a Porsche Panamera was the ugly duckling of the 3er family.
A bit of nip and tuck has happened this year, as BMW took the wraps off the 3 Series Gran Turismo facelift. You'd think that there was no way to make Quasimodo beautiful, but you're wrong, just like in the case of the Porsche Panamera facelift.
The first official promo video is out this week, and it seems to be about a semi-rugged geologist-type fellow, driving his brand new 3 Series GT through the mountains. All the while, BMW highlights the fact that the trunk can swallow up a lot of stuff or that the new navigation system is more practical.
Of course, you can do most of this stuff with a Skoda Octavia 1.6 TDI, but part of buying a BMW is the manly engine you get. And the Bavarians ensured there are plenty of new ones to boast to your friends about.
These gasoline turbo units produce between 184 and 326 hp, while their diesel equivalents make 150 to 313 hp. If you want to be a real man, get the 3.0-liter ones with high output, but even the new 330i 2.0-liter engine has more poke than your average hot hatchback. Of course, all engines are available with either a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic with lightning-fast shifts. The more powerful also have optional, sometimes standard, all-wheel-drive.
Not every 3 Series Gran Turismo will look the same. To get yours looking this good, you'll have to order the M Sport package with sports suspension, nice wheels, and blue interior accents.
The 2016 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo facelift is slated to go on sale in Europe this summer, with deliveries set for September. Thus, you will have plenty of time to figure out what you want to buy.
Mihnea's favorite cars have already been built, the so-called modern classics from the '80s and '90s. He also loves local car culture from all over the world, so don't be surprised to see him getting excited about weird Japanese imports, low-rider VWs out of Germany, replicas from Russia or LS swaps down in Florida. Full profile
Would you like AUTOEVOLUTION to send you notifications?
Google News