In the latest well-managed leak, BMW has let it slip that the long-rumored BMW 3 Series GT will come to market in March 2013, BMWblog reports.
According to a company source, the 3 Series GT features sleeker lines than its older brother, the 5 GT, but still has a somewhat bulky look. The 3 GT is said to offer same trunk space as the 5 Series Sedan, but oddly, more legroom.
Last year, we learned that the 3 Series Gran Turismo will come with a hatch as seen on the 5 GT and raised ride height. The car has a high belt line that completely wraps around the car, allowing the roof to be lower and sleeker. The core idea of a Gran Turismo vehicle remains, traveling in style and comfort, and with acceptable performance.
Internally the 3GT is referred as the “Progressive Activity Coupe” (perhaps it makes sense in German?) due to the way the roof slopes down at the rear. Instead of a larger glass area as in a Touring, there is an additional quarter light and a wrap around tailgate. The rear end is a combination of Touring and a station wagon.
BMW sees the 3 Series Gran Turismo as “the alternative to alternatives, a style conscious car with the dynamic prowess to match its looks.” Some observers might see it as yet another way to slice the same pizza, however.
Since the 3 Series GT will inherit the motoring options from the recently unveiled 3 Series Sedan, there's likely to be a high-end 335i GT as well. With the new 3 Series Touring coming to the U.S., it remains to be seen if BMW will offer the Gran Turismo version to American customers as well.––Paul Duchene
