SUVs may currently rule the wagon roost with almost 31 per cent of all vehicle sales in Australia.
However, the conventional family wagon market is not yet ready to roll over and kick its wheels in the air. Just ask BMW.
The German maker has just released its latest contender, the 3 Series Touring, with the 318d and 320i models already here and the 328i available soon.
They share the same body which is lighter, yet bigger with inside accommodation larger than ever. While the body may be one size fits all, the differences between the drive lines is dramatic.
Buyers can opt for the 318d which may return fuel consumption figures as low as 4.7 litres per 100 km. The mid-range 320i sprints to 100km/h in 7.5 seconds and returns a creditable 6.2 L/100km. Those looking for high performance will no doubt select the 328i Touring with 180kW of power and 350Nm of torque and sprinting to 100km/h in just 6.0 seconds.
All models now have an eight-speed auto transmission fitted with stop/start engine technology standard. There are also four variant design packages: Sport line, Modern line, Luxury line and M Sport package. BMW has added to the 3 Series practicality with 40/20/40 split fold rear seats. Fold them down and there’s a cavernous 1500-litre cargo space.
The new 3 Series has the refined ride comfort and driving dynamics that BMW buyers expect. The 320i and 328i also have the popular steering wheel shift paddles to get the most out of the driving experience, particularly with the new 8-speed auto. While all three models have power tailored to the buyer’s needs, they also have fuel-saving technologies including the stop/start function, brake energy re-generation and Eco Pro mode that assists in lowering fuel consumption, and therefore emissions. Even with the rear seat in full use the luggage area still boasts 495 litres.
The 318 comes highly specified with dual zone climate control, cruise control with brake function, auto wiper rain sensors, rear park distance control, Bluetooth, MP3 CD audio, with auxiliary and USB inputs.
Step up to the 320i and it gains electric seat adjustment with memory function, rear view camera, 17-inch alloys, front park distance control, leather steering wheel and an interior lighting system.
The range-topping 328i gets all the bling with 17-inch star spoked 393-styled wheels, interior and exterior mirrors with anti-dazzle and folding function, and walnut interior trim with Dakota leather upholstery.
Prices start at $58,900 for the 318i Touring, $62,600 for the 320i Touring and $69,900 for the 328i Touring.
