The new BMW 3 Series Touring

The second model variant of the new BMW 3 Series range - the Touring - will go
on sale in the UK on September 17, 2005. Media and public acclaim for the
recently launched 3 Series Saloon, a car widely reckoned to have set a new
benchmark in the compact executive market, bodes well for the fourth generation
of 3 Series Touring.

The new 3 Series Touring offers greater practicality, improved performance,
superb handling and a poised ride. It is also more comfortable, roomier and is
even more parsimonious at the pumps than the outgoing model.

Comfort and Practicality

Internally and externally the new 3 Series Touring is larger than its
predecessor. Measuring 4,520mm in length (+42mm), 1,817mm in width (+78mm),
1,418mm in height (+9mm) and with an extended wheelbase of 2,760mm (+35mm),
both front and rear occupants enjoy increased space and comfort. The
practicality of the Touring model is also improved with the new model offering
460 litres with the rear seats in place and 1385 litres with the 60:40 split
seats folded. This represents a 25 and 40-litre increase over its predecessor
respectively.

Numerous practical features in the boot ensure that any load can be transported
with ease and in total safety. Like its predecessor, the new Touring features
a split opening tailgate so that small items can be loaded easily through the
window. When either the rear window or the complete tailgate are opened, the
luggage compartment cover automatically moves upwards to offer easy access to
the contents, while a useful under-floor storage box ensures that items can be
transported safely and securely. In addition, a watertight folding box beneath
the boot floor provides storage for dirty items, such as muddy boots, without
damaging other contents or the carpeting.

Power and Economy

Two engine variants will be available at launch, the frugal two-litre diesel
320d Touring and the new magnesium-alloy engined six-cylinder 325i Touring,
with 320i, 330i and 330d engine variants becoming available later in autumn
2005.

See download document for table of basic performance data.

The new BMW 325i and 330i Touring models benefit from the new magnesium-alloy
engine first introduced on the 630i Coupe and Convertible and recently seen in
the 330i Saloon variant. Using innovative and lightweight materials in the
construction of the crankcase, crankshaft bearings and cylinder head cover
makes it the lightest volume production six-cylinder engine in the world. All
engine variants are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or a
six-speed automatic as an option.

All six-cylinder Touring models also feature BMW's DSC+ traction control system
as standard. Differentiated from the usual DSC system (standard on
four-cylinder cars), DSC+ offers additional features to ensure the brakes are
primed for faster emergency stops, they are 'wiped' dry in wet conditions and
are programmed to stop a manual car rolling backwards during a hill-start.

The new 3 Series Touring also benefits from the same chassis and suspension
components as the highly praised Saloon variant. The double-joint aluminium
front axle offers a fine balance between driving dynamics and occupant comfort
while the five-link rear axle ensures precise wheel guidance and ride comfort
in all circumstances. Like its Saloon counterpart, the new Touring model
benefits from near perfect 50:50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive and a
long wheelbase with short overhangs in order to offer the highest levels of
agility and safety in its class.

Other highlights

Although the new Touring model was developed completely separately from its
Saloon counterpart, it is identical from the nose to the A-pillar. From here,
the roofline tapers gently to the boot lid lip spoiler without having any
detrimental effect on rear seat headroom. In turn, the distinctive shoulder
line moves upwards slightly to the rear, reducing the size of the glasshouse
and benefiting aerodynamic efficiency.

The additional space in the Touring provides an ideal solution for families,
with the car offering two ISOFIX child seat fixings in the rear and, as an
option, one set on the front passenger seat. Rear seat passengers can also
benefit from separate rear seat air conditioning. All occupants can appreciate
a feeling of increased spaciousness offered by the optional Panorama sunroof.
The Panorama sunroof measures 800mm by 745mm to give all passengers up to 60
per cent more light than a conventional sunroof.

Ends