A BMW 3 Series GT looks set to be launched with the next generation 3 Series
We’ve only recently seen the BMW 5 Series GT, but it looks as if BMW are determined to follow Audi’s lead by filling every niche there is, and have confirmed plans for the BMW 3 Series GT.
It’s not going to be too hard to imagine how the 3 Series GT will look – think 5 Series GT on a boil wash. But BMW think there is money to be made with the GT concept, and are looking to take on the likes of the Audi A4 Avant and the Audi Q3. But don’t they already have that in the new BMW X1 and the 3 Series Estate? I’m sure they know best.
Likely to feature a range of BMW lumps – from 4-pot diesel to V8 – the new BMW 3 Series GT will take its lead from the BMW 5 Series GT in much of its detail, whilst being clearly based on the next generation 3 Series. Expect the same swoopy roof line (a mini X6 without the stilts) and trick two-piece tailgate.
Also likely is the ‘bespoke’ 4-seat only configuration we thought was going to be the only spec on the 5 Series GT but – as with the 5 Series GT – there will also be a more practical 5-seat option.
The launch of the 3 Series GT in 2011 – around the same time as we get the next generation 3 Series – will bring to a total of five the body styles for the next 3 Series – Saloon, Coupe, Convertible, Estate and GT.
BMW boss Norbert Reithofer is quoted as saying “We haven’t cancelled the crossover of the 3 Series, as it is considered a volume builder with which we can earn good money”. Which seems to make the BMW 3 Series GT a certainty.
At this rate BMW will out-Audi, Audi.
Source: Edmunds
Adrian says
The X6 is an exlusive rich-man toy which looks gorgeous.
But the 3 and 5s are mass-market models that fill their respective niches well.
I don’t see where these strange-looking and nonsensical ‘GT’s come in .
And yes, like Carsoblog, I agree too that it’s just strange at best and ugly with all honesty.
It fits in no segment current, new or conceivable.
Total waste of marketing and production costs.
BMW should just shelve this.
It’s lamer than Renault trying to launch a certain ‘new’ car called the Avantime.
At least that was truly ground breaking ,this , on the other hand, has no point of view.
Carsoblog says
I don’t get the connection of GT (Grand Tourismo) and this flat “estate” version. Cmon… I know that diversity in versions is important, but these are awful (3 and 5 and X6). They all look like cockroaches.
Maybe next step will be GT cabrio? SUV GT? let’s mix the segments 🙂