BMW's 3 Series Gran Turismo will hit Australia later this year, but this week the German carmaker is showcasing the new model in Geneva.

The new 3 Series variant is the second to wear the Gran Turismo badge, following the 2009 unveiling of the larger 5 Series GT.

Like the tall 5 GT, the 3 Series GT merges the look of a four-door coupe with a high-set beltline, creating a new model that could be considered a smaller X6 SUV on sedan suspension.

The new five-door GT borrows its styling from the regular 3 Series range, adding its own unique bumper design, a broader grille stronger connecting point to the headlights.

Like the new 4 Series Coupe concept, top-shelf variants of the 3 Series GT also feature a hooked brake vent behind the front wheel arches.

The GT is larger than the rest of the 3 Series models, measuring 80mm taller and 20mm wider than the regular 3, riding on a wheelbase 110mm longer than the Touring wagon.

And even though rear legroom has grown by nearly 70mm, that tapered roofline gives away nothing in the cabin, with rear storage greater than in the wagon by around 20 litres.

The 3 Series Gran Turismo will launch with three petrol and two diesel engines, all turbocharged and ranging in power from 105 to 225kW.

The model spread will include 320i and 328i petrol models, 318d and 320d diesels, and the top-shelf 335i flagship petrol model.

A top-shelf M Sport equipped model will headline the range, adding unique styling elements and sharpened handling.

Australia

Speaking with TMR, BMW Australia's Scott Croaker confirmed a third-quarter local debut for the 3 Series GT range.

Pricing and specs will be confirmed closer to launch.

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• 3 Series GT | 3 Series | BMW | Prestige Cars
• Geneva Motor Show

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• reply ” like !

  

  paddy says,
  2 months ago

  Me likey.
  • reply ” like !

    

    Lindsay says,
    2 months ago

    I vomited. It's like the X6 all over again.
    
    Oh, there I go again. Ugh.
    • reply ” like !

      

      Balthazaaaargh says,
      2 months ago

      Yeah, and I agree with you for the most part, but when you consider that the X6 has been a huge success for BMW, it's not surprising that they'd give this a go.