With the first units of the new BMW 3-Series sedan just now coming on the market, the German firm has decided to show off the station wagon version of its newest models.
When the Touring version of the 3-Series arrives in Canada this fall, says Kevin Marcotte of the Whitby-based BMW Canada, it will be available as the 325xi Touring. That means it will run on the same 3.0-litre inline-six as the 325i sedan, and have the firm's all-wheel-drive xDrive system as standard equipment.
The new 3 Series Touring is said to offer ''greater practicality, improved performance, superb handling and a poised ride. It is also more comfortable, roomier and is even more parsimonious at the pumps than the outgoing model.''
Internally and externally the new 3-series Touring is larger than its predecessor. The key measurements of the wagon and their growth from the previous model are as follows: 4,520 mm long (42 mm), 1,817 mm wide (78 mm), 1,418 mm tall (9mm) on a wheelbase of 2,760 mm (35mm).
This means that the occupants in the front and rear seats will ''enjoy increased space and comfort.''
At the same time, ''The practicality of the Touring model is also improved with the new model offering 460 litres with the rear seats in place and 1385 litres with the 60:40 split seats folded. This represents a 25- and 40-litre increase, respectively, over the former model.
Like its predecessor, the new Touring features a split opening tailgate so that small items can be loaded through the window.
When either the rear window or the complete tailgate are opened, the luggage compartment cover automatically moves upwards to offer easy access to the contents, while an under-floor storage box ensures that items can be transported safely and securely.
In addition, a watertight folding box beneath the cargo bay provides storage for such things as muddy boots, without damaging other contents or the carpeting.
The engine will produce 215 hp at 6,500 rpm and about 190 lb-ft of torque between 2,750 and 4,250 rpm, which is said to deliver a 0 to 100 kmh time of 7.2 seconds.
All engine variants are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or a six-speed automatic as an option.
Prices have of course not been set, but the previous wagon version of the 3-series with all-wheel-drive retailed for more than $44,000.
The magnesium-alloy engine in the 325xi debuted on the 630i coupe and convertible, and then moved on to the sedan version of the 3-series. The use of innovative and lightweight materials in the construction of the crankcase, crankshaft bearings and cylinder head cover makes it the lightest volume production six-cylinder engine in the world.
All six-cylinder Touring models also feature BMW's DSC+ traction control system as standard, offering features that ensure the brakes are primed for faster emergency stops. They are 'wiped' dry in wet conditions and are programmed to stop a manual car rolling backwards during a hill-start.
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| BMW 3-Series Touring (photo : BMW AG) |
The new 3 Series Touring is said to offer ''greater practicality, improved performance, superb handling and a poised ride. It is also more comfortable, roomier and is even more parsimonious at the pumps than the outgoing model.''
Internally and externally the new 3-series Touring is larger than its predecessor. The key measurements of the wagon and their growth from the previous model are as follows: 4,520 mm long (42 mm), 1,817 mm wide (78 mm), 1,418 mm tall (9mm) on a wheelbase of 2,760 mm (35mm).
This means that the occupants in the front and rear seats will ''enjoy increased space and comfort.''
 |
| BMW 3-Series Touring (photo : BMW AG) |
Like its predecessor, the new Touring features a split opening tailgate so that small items can be loaded through the window.
When either the rear window or the complete tailgate are opened, the luggage compartment cover automatically moves upwards to offer easy access to the contents, while an under-floor storage box ensures that items can be transported safely and securely.
In addition, a watertight folding box beneath the cargo bay provides storage for such things as muddy boots, without damaging other contents or the carpeting.
The engine will produce 215 hp at 6,500 rpm and about 190 lb-ft of torque between 2,750 and 4,250 rpm, which is said to deliver a 0 to 100 kmh time of 7.2 seconds.
All engine variants are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or a six-speed automatic as an option.
Prices have of course not been set, but the previous wagon version of the 3-series with all-wheel-drive retailed for more than $44,000.
The magnesium-alloy engine in the 325xi debuted on the 630i coupe and convertible, and then moved on to the sedan version of the 3-series. The use of innovative and lightweight materials in the construction of the crankcase, crankshaft bearings and cylinder head cover makes it the lightest volume production six-cylinder engine in the world.
All six-cylinder Touring models also feature BMW's DSC+ traction control system as standard, offering features that ensure the brakes are primed for faster emergency stops. They are 'wiped' dry in wet conditions and are programmed to stop a manual car rolling backwards during a hill-start.