BMW Australia has announced pricing for the 3 Series GT. It’s still a while away from finding its way into local showrooms, but the biggest 3 Series money can buy will kick off proceedings with three engine options:
(Manufacturer’s list pricing)
Here’s a new rumour that’s likely to polarise opinions. The next generation M3 will no longer be made available in sedan form, but, assuming the rumour is correct, you will be able to buy an M3 version of a new 3 Series Gran Turismo. At least that’s the theory offered in Roundel, the official magazine of BMW Car Club of America.
An M3 GT would likely follow in the path of the current 5 Series GT, which is even more niche than an X6, if that’s possible. Here’s the deal, though. To AUSmotive, at least, if these half-arsed suburban warriors have to be made, then we’ll take a 5 Series GT over an X6 every time. Don’t tell anyone, but we actually quite like the 5er GT.
So, an M3 GT will most probably get a big thumbs up from us as well.
[Source: M3Post]
BMW have gone to some rather unusual lengths to explain their rationale behind the Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo. This short film, at a touch over 3 minutes 30 seconds, tells you everything you need to know.
The clip is quirky, cute and more than a little daft, but enjoyable nonetheless.
For more on the Gran Turismo, check out the official website.
New models such as the X6 show that BMW is not afraid to tread new ground. And that’s exactly what this BMW Concept 5 Series Gran Turismo does. Also known as the Progressive Activity Sedan (PAS) this car is part wagon, part sedan and part SUV.
I have to say, regardless of whether there is a market for this car or not, it looks a hell of a lot better than the X6. At first I thought the Gran Turismo, like the X6, was another car that simply left you asking “why?”. But the more I see and read about the 5 Series Gran Turismo, the more I like it.
Perhaps, in the metal it may look a bit clunky, but in these pictures, at least, I think it looks stylish and on the pleasant side of aggressive. Although, the side profile, especially the front, is a bit too abrupt.
Featuring new LED “corona” rings for daytime running lights, a modern interpretation of the “Hofmeister kink” and a razor sharp waistline this Concept will certainly stand out on the road when it goes into production.
The car will have its full launch at the Geneva Auto Salon, however an extensive press release and twenty more images can be seen after the jump. You can also watch a 34 minute recording of the live reveal from last Friday by clicking HERE (note: will resize your browser window).
I’d love to hear what you think, so please leave some comments below.
UPDATE 16 Feb: New release from BMW Australia added below.