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We'll spare you the discussion about whether or not it actually makes sense for BMW to create a Gran Turismo version of its 3 Series, especially given the dismal sales of the larger 5 Series Gran Turismo here in the United States. And nevermind the fact that BMW calls its new 3GT "a style conscious car with the dynamic prowess to match its looks." (We've heard that before.) All we know is, the more functional (but not as functional as a wagon) 3 Series is headed our way, and it's expected to debut at the Paris Motor Show in late September.
Our spy photographers recently caught this 3 Series GT prototype out testing on the streets of Europe, showing more of its skin than when it was last spotted. Up front, the car looks like a standard-issue 3er – which isn't a bad thing – and out back, we can now get a clearer picture of what that stylized rump will look like. Earlier reports have stated that the 3GT will use a two-piece tailgate like the larger 5GT, meaning the whole hatchback or just the trunk portion can be opened.
Official powertrain details are still up in the air, but don't expect engine choices to differ too much from what's being offered in the 3 Series sedan. That means we should see the delicious 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four in the base model and the larger 3.0-liter turbo six in the range-topping model. Of course, all of that is purely speculation, but we expect to have the full details closer to the car's alleged unveiling in Paris in just a few weeks.
08-29-12 | 11:31 AM
BMW 3 Series GT peels off more camo
