BMW just announced the new BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo would be making its North American debut at the New York International Auto Show. The auto show will run from March 29 until April 7. Joining the Gran Turismo will be the BMW Concept Active Tourer, and a diesel-powered 3 Series, the 328d.
The Gran Turismo is following in the footsteps of the 5 Series GT and offering BMW’s take on a “hot hatchback.” The GT is taller and longer than a standard 3 series but still maintains a very sporty appearance, thanks to well-proportioned features. The GT has a higher seat height than the sedan in the front and rear, aiding visibility along with easier entry and exit. There is also added headroom and legroom for all passengers. The luggage compartment offers more space than a Chrysler 300 with the rear seats up. Luggage capacity with rear seats folded down swells to generous 56.5 cubic feet.
Behind the wheel, the Gran Turismo will keep with the BMW tradition. The driver-focused cockpit is laid out to provide easy access to essential functions. A black-panel display and BMW’s iDrive monitor along with high quality materials, make the GT a combination of style and substance.
Outside, the Gran Turismo has a sculpted shape, frameless windows, a sloping roof line and forward-slanting kidney shaped grilles. The GT also has larger headlights than the sedan and larger air intakes under the headlights.
A twin-turbo 4-cylinder or inline 6-cylinder engine will be available in the GT. The 4-cylinder is expected to make 240 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque, while the V-6 is rated at 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. An 8 speed automatic transmission is standard.
The new BMW Concept Active Tourer, a plug-in hybrid, combines a 3 cylinder engine with an electric motor. The concept features a “Cold Shade” glass roof that can allow the roof to transition from a clear to tint, using “Suspended Particle Device” technology.
On hand for the auto show, BMW will debut the 328d. The 328d will be offered with a TwinPower 4-cylinder diesel engine, boasting 180 horsepower and 280 lb-ft. of torque. 0-60 times should be in the low 7 second range. US EPA estimates have not been released, but could exceed 40 mpg. A two-man bobsled developed by BMW, working with the USA Bobsled & Skeleton Federation, will also be featured. Find out more by visiting the links here: BMW.com or New York International Auto Show
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