BMW 3 Series Touring (F31) 2012-2016 Photos, engines & full specs

BMW introduced the sixth generation of the 3 Series sedan in late 2011, but, even though it had the station wagon version ready to launch, it did that in 2012.

Ever since the second generation of the 3 Series, BMW understood that customers needed a station wagon for their premium compact vehicle. Moreover, it had to offer a few things that no other automaker could provide. And the Bavarian automaker kept improving the vehicle and reached more and more customers. Moreover, to make the long-roof more desirable, it gave it exclusive options, such as the opening panoramic glass roof.

With the sixth generation of the 3 Series, BMW returned to its initial quest of designing the car with sportier styling. Thus, thanks to the narrowed headlights on the inner side, it made it look sportier. Like its sedan sibling, the Touring version, BMW's designation for station wagons, the F31 sported a broad grille on the lower side of the bumper that also included the foglamps. On the profile, the slightly sloped-down roof and the raked-forward tailgate created a dynamic look of the vehicle.

Inside, at the front, there were no differences between the sedan and its family-oriented stablemate. At the same time, the rear bench featured a 40/20/40 split-folding system that allowed an increase in the trunk space from a decent 495 liters (17.5 cu-ft) to a respectable 1,500 liters (53 cu-ft). But this wasn't the only advantage when compared to its four-door sibling. The Touring also provided better headroom for the rear passengers, although the transmission tunnel limited the legroom for the middle-seated occupant.

Under the hood, BMW offered a wide engine choice for the 3 Series Touring customers. Power ranged between a mere 134 hp (136 PS) and 302 hp (306 PS). Depending on the engine version, the car was available with either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. In addition, the automaker offered a choice of rear- or all-wheel drive systems.