New 2014 BMW 3-series GT review, test drive

BMW will launch its new 3 GT at the Auto Expo in February. A roomier version of its 3-series sedan, this car promises to deliver plenty of space and comfort in a 3-series-sized package. But just how good is it? And is it worth the extra amount over the regular 3; prices are expected to start at around Rs 43 lakh. We got to spend a day behind the wheel and were immediately impressed by the breadth of its talents. It's not a traditional BMW for sure, but its strengths are so well matched to the requirements of Indian customers, BMW could be on to something here.

For a start, it’s not what you’d expect. It's called a 3-series GT, but it looks very little like a 3-series from most angles. Even less in the flesh. The handsome nose is fuller and more exaggerated, the roofline that leaps over to the rear is a big, bulbous arc and the elongated rear of the car is completely different. It's not strictly attractive to look at from most angles, but then neither is it unattractive. What BMW has done well is disguise how big this car is on the inside.

There's more space up front, much more legroom in the rear and, to top it off, it has a massive 500-plus-litre boot. To give you this additional space, BMW has had to lengthen the wheelbase of the regular 3-series. The GT is considerably longer than the regular car, and heavier too. Also, it has a lift back or a hatch at the rear, just like a Skoda Superb, which makes getting luggage in and out extremely easy. BMW has raised the GT’s ride height for added practicality. Continued..