BMW lifted the wraps off the new G20-generation 3 Series at this year’s Paris Auto Show and it was certainly worth the wait, boasting more power, less weight, and significantly improved handling. In short, it’s better than its predecessor in every way. Two trims will be available in America: the 330i, which is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder producing 255 horsepower, and a more potent M340i with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six producing 382 hp.
Sadly, it will only be available with an automatic transmission, whereas the 318d and 320d diesel models will be equipped with a six-speed manual gearbox in Europe. Now that the sedan has broken cover, the new 3 Series family will soon expand with a new 3 Series Touring and a full-fat M3.
A recent report claimed that the new 3 Series Touring will debut at the Geneva Motor Show next year, which makes sense since the current model is expected to end production in June 2019. In the meantime, our spies have caught a prototype of the new 3 Series Touring being carried on a transporter, and it’s already started strip teasing.
There’s some camouflage covering the rear, but the front fascia is completely exposed. Unsurprisingly, the front looks nearly identical to its sedan sibling, sharing the same sleek LED headlights and redesigned kidney grille. The G20 3 Series sedan is also larger than its predecessor, so the new Touring model should provide occupants with more room inside than the current 3 Series Wagon.
The 3 Series Touring should also share the same engines as its sedan sibling, including the aforementioned 255-hp 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder and 382-hp 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. Rumors also suggest BMW will launch a high-performance M3 Touring to rival the Audi RS4 Avant.
It isn’t yet clear if BMW will sell the new 3 Series Touring in America. While the automaker currently sells the 3 Series Wagon Stateside, wagons aren’t very popular in the US so it seems unlikely.
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