3-Series GT spied

Text: Ben Foulds / Photos: Automedia

13th April 2011

BMW's 3-Series has been given the boot! These are our latest spy shots of the forthcoming BMW 3-Series GT. Following on from those we published back in March, the latest pictures give us better idea of what to expect from the new crossover.

Key to the GT's design will be the sloping roofline – which designers are keen to stress gives the car a coupé-like profile – while the front end will preview the look planned for the 3-Series saloon which is due to arrive in 2012. At the back, there will be a version of the double-layered bootlid pioneered by the Skoda Superb and currently found on the 5-Series GT.

Under the skin will be a wide choice of BMW's latest four- and six-cylinder powertrains, including a new 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol unit that was recently added to the X1 crossover range. Buyers will also be able to choose between rear-wheel-drive and xDrive 4x4 when specifying their GT.

The new model represents BMW's third venture into a new niche in as many years, with the 5-Series GT and X1 both having made their debuts in the last 24 months. The Munich firm is positioning the GT slightly upwards of the saloon, Touring and coupé variants of the 3-Series, and aims to offer buyers the usual driver appeal with an added dose of practicality thrown in.

The 3-Series GT will be officially unveiled at the Frankfurt motor show in September, with sales due to start early next year.