[BMW News] The BMW 3 Series GT is now available in South Africa. Aiming to offer the dynamics of the saloon with some of the non-SA market Touring’s practicality, the 3 GT seeks to create a new market niche.
This vehicle is based on the current 3 Series platform, but the GT version nevertheless doesn’t share a single panel with its donor sibling. It’s wider, has a different headlight configuration and a larger grille depending on the package you opt for. There are also a few extra creases and air breathers on the flanks. Other exterior highlights on this vehicle include frameless windows and a coupe-like sloping roofline. It also features an active rear spoiler.
A big emphasis has been placed on interior space. The 3 Series Gran Turismo is 200 millimetres longer in total than the 3 Series Touring, comes with a 110-millimetre longer wheelbase and stands 81 millimetres taller. This translates into a roomier and more comfortable cabin. It also has a high driving position for a clearer all round view.
There are four models available locally – three petrol and one diesel. The entry-level petrol is the 320i GT with a 2,0-litre engine that delivers 135 kW at 5 000 r/min and 270 N.m of torque between 1 250 and 4 500 r/min. There’s also the 328i that has the same engine but in a different state of tune. Under the bonnet of the 328i, this engine produces 180 kW at 5 000 r/min and 350 N.m between 1 250 and 4 800 r/min. The top-of-the-range model is the 335i with a 225 kW 3,0-litre unit that has a torque figure of 400 N.m at 1 200 r/min. This model is capable of a zero to 100 km/h sprint time of 5,4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 km/h. The 320d utilises a 2,0-litre diesel with 230 kW and 360 N.m. All models except the 335i have the option of a six-speed manual, eight-speed automatic steptronic transmission, and an eight-speed sport automatic steptronic transmission, with the manual being the base model. The 335i is only available with the latter.
Standard specification includes automatic start/stop, brake energy regeneration, electronic diff lock and driver experience control unit. There are four packages available with the 3 GT at an extra cost – modern line, luxury line, sport line and the M sport package. Each has its own set of standard features and entertainment systems.
Prices (manual versions):
BMW 320i GT – R413 885,80
BMW 320d GT – R439 923,40
BMW 328i GT – R492 193,60
BMW 335i GT (sport automatic steptronic) – R600 950,80
Read a driving impression of the 328i GT here.
