BMW 3-Series GT spied

BMW 3-Series GT
  • BMW 3-Series GT
  • BMW 3-Series GT
  • BMW 3-Series GT
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25 Mar, 2011 10:12am Jack Rix Comments

Part saloon, part estate and part coupe - BMW's junior GT is coming and these are the pictures that prove it.

The 3-Series is crossing over into a whole new niche! Back in November last year we broke the story that a crossover based on the next-generation 3-Series, and in the mould of the 5-Series GT, was on the way. And these are the spy shots that prove it.

Despite wearing heavy camouflage, the newcomer’s silhouette is clearly visible and marks a departure for the huge-selling 3-Series family. The aim is to pitch this as a more premium alternative to saloon, coupe and touring variants – adding extra practicality without losing any of the standard model’s driver appeal.

Just like the 5-Series GT it will feature a raised seating position for rear passengers, sliding back seats and the same two-stage rear hatch, first seen on the Skoda Superb. Just like the touring model it will be based on a slightly stretched platform to maximise rear space.

Both rear-wheel drive and xDrive all-wheel drive versions will be available, with power coming from a range of BMW’s latest four and six-cylinder petrol and diesel engines, including the new four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbo engine recently introduced on the X1.
 
The car will be characterised by short overhangs, an interpretation of BMW’s latest family face, already seen on the 5-Series, and the coupe-like roofline that flows neatly into the bootlid.

Expect to see the production model debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show, before the new 3-Series saloon arrives in 2012.  

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Submitted by IHendry on Fri, 2011-03-25 16:05.

The 3-series outsells the Mondeo in the UK. Adding a hatchback to this sector is hardly creating a new niche. Really, how is this car different to the Cavalier hatch of the 80s? It's fighting in the same market, effectively, that of fleet and company car drivers.

Submitted by tommy060289 on Fri, 2011-03-25 19:48.

they don't really capture any news buyers with these models, just sell already buyers a slightly different one. I suppose its for the best as at least it gives buyers a bit more choice and customisation.

However, it does have to be said that the 5 series GT is absolutely one of THE ugliest cars I have ever seen. A true eye-sore. and I like the standard 5

Submitted by Shaun34 on Sat, 2011-03-26 11:42.

BMW have finally realised that most people in this sector who are buying cars with their own money prefer hatchbacks. I wonder how long before we get a hatchback Passat.

Submitted by Bloodyannoying on Sat, 2011-03-26 12:51.

Please BMW don't do this to us again.

Submitted by hsbcgeoff on Mon, 2011-03-28 00:00.

I agree with all the above comments. I thought post Bangle, things would get better. This looks like a cross between an old Cavalier and a Mazda 6! From the rear 3/4 view it looks like someone has stomped on the C pillar. I pray that when the disguise comes off it looks MUCH better. No doubt it will drive well and cost an arm and a leg.

Submitted by hsbcgeoff on Mon, 2011-03-28 01:03.

I agree with all the above comments. I thought post Bangle, things would get better. This looks like a cross between an old Cavalier and a Mazda 6! From the rear 3/4 view it looks like someone has stomped on the C pillar. I pray that when the disguise comes off it looks MUCH better. No doubt it will drive well and cost an arm and a leg.

Submitted by JTravolta77 on Mon, 2011-03-28 05:07.

Im not a fan of the BMW 3 Series Saloon's styling but this appears to be a very nicely sculpted and proportioned alternative. At least it will have decent headroom unlike the Saloon!

Submitted by BARNEYM1979 on Tue, 2011-03-29 12:39.

...than the 5 GT, which is actually very well respected in professional chauffeur circles. As for BMW creating unnecessary models, I don't think it's close to stealing Audi's crown in that respect!

Submitted by 3Deuce27 on Tue, 2011-03-29 22:31.

Another 'Flying Pig' ... Who needs it?

It is a 'little' more practical, but at what cost. Styling for sure, handling?

Was able to haul home a 12"x32"x80" /300mm' x 800mm' x 2000mm' Bed, plus mattress from IKEA in my 328is coupe so the regular 3-series, even the coupe is quite practical.

Submitted by clearandpresentthinking on Thu, 2011-12-08 18:00.

The 5-Series GT looks like a descendant of the Pontiac Aztek... Second, it is not a GT... which implies a 2+2 sports car... It is embarassing for a leading automotive company to name a 4 door hatchback a GT... and ugly too...

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