BMW 3 Series Touring arrives in Europe
...But only a handful of variants will make it to AustraliaBMW has this week launched its Touring (wagon) version of the F30-generation 3 Series in Europe.
To the B-pillar, Touring is identical to its sedan sibling with track, wheelbase and body length increasing the car’s proportions from the rear seat aft. With more room in the rear seat and an additional 35 litres of luggage space (now 495 litres), the new 3 Series Touring offers greater comfort and carrying capacity than its forebear.
As per the sedan range, Touring models are available with new Sport Line, Luxury Line and Modern Line equipment packages, while an optional M Sport package is also available.
Powertrain options and the suite of EfficientDynamics eco-focussed technologies found in 3 Series sedan are also carried over, with 3 Series Touring initially to be offered in three variants — 320d, 328i and 330d. Though not all of these are earmarked for Australia.
Citing slow sales of high-output 330d (diesel) models in other variants, BMW Australia spokesperson Scott Croaker told motoring.com.au the decision is about feasibility, and not desirability.
“We will not be offering the 330d variant in either the Touring or Sedan as it seems that variant is not in high demand in our market [the E90 330d sold in low volumes],” explained Mr Croaker.
In Europe, the BMW 3 Series Touring range is expected to be joined by 316d and 318d (diesel) and 320i (petrol) variants towards the end of the year. Both 318d and 320i variants are also slated to join the local line-up early next year.
“The 3 Series Touring will be launching in Australia early next year and the expected model line-up will most likely include an entry level diesel and petrol variant to start with, [and] also include the 328i,” detailed Mr Croaker.
“I would expect the standard spec to be near enough as identical to the 3 Series sedan equivalents, except for some Touring specific features such as automatic tailgate. And whilst pricing hasn’t been confirmed you can expect the premium for Touring over Sedan to be well under $5K,” concluded Mr Croaker.
Full specification and pricing details will be announced closer to the car’s local launch, though we expect Touring variants to attract a modest premium over sedan counterparts, which retail from $56,400.
Visit motoring.com.au again soon for our full launch review of the new BMW 3 Series Touring range.
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