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Review of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo has started to roll in and so far, there is a mix of positive and negative comments from auto journalists. This review highlight the efficiency gain, but stumbles upon a few less impressive characteristics of the vehicle. Here is an excerpt of Car and Driver's review:
The 3-series GT, we submit, is a far-better-looking car than the 5-series GT, and it does make good use of its larger dimensions. Thanks to its enlarged body, the trunk holds between 18 and 57 cubic feet of luggage, more than the 3-series Sports Wagon it joins in BMW’s U.S. lineup. There is very generous legroom in the back, and the split rear seat can be adjusted through 15 stages. The driver enjoys that higher seating position so dear to SUV and crossover lovers, and the interior fittings are done to the elevated standards of the current 3-series.
All of that extra space, of course, comes at a penalty. The higher center of gravity, longer wheelbase, and extra 300 pounds (versus the sedan) rob it of some agility. Fitted with the rear suspension of the Sports Wagon, the GT becomes a more comfortable and softer vehicle. Still, it doesn’t object to playing. We experienced a little more understeer than is usual for a 3-series sedan, but inducing power oversteer is easy and fun.
We are still not fully satisfied with the electrically assisted power steering, which could be lighter and more natural feeling. But there’s little to be gained by bemoaning the loss of hydraulic power steering. At least the efficiency gain is significant.
