BMW reveals 2013 3 Series Touring with more space and turbo engines
BMW has officially unveiled the 2013 3 Series Touring, offering increased luggage capacity, a longer wheelbase and a choice of turbocharged petrol and diesel engines.
BMW has taken the covers off the 2013 3 Series Touring, confirming the estate variant of its best-selling compact executive will arrive in European showrooms later in 2012, with US sales following in spring 2013. The new Touring grows in length and practicality over its predecessor, launching with a trio of turbocharged engines and a focus on everyday usability.
Longer body, bigger boot and more flexibility
The new 3 Series Touring measures 97mm longer than the current saloon and rides on a wheelbase extended by 50mm. This stretch translates directly into more usable interior space, particularly for rear passengers and luggage. Boot capacity now stands at 495 litres, an increase of 35 litres over the outgoing model. BMW has also added practical touches, including a separately opening rear window for quick access to the boot and a luggage net to divide the load area from the cabin. Additional storage is available beneath the boot floor, catering for smaller items or valuables.
The rear seats retain a 40:20:40 split, allowing owners to configure the interior for a mix of passengers and cargo. BMW says the Touring’s estate body is aimed at buyers who need more versatility than the saloon but want to retain the 3 Series’ driving dynamics.
Engine line-up: turbocharged petrol and diesels
At launch, the 2013 3 Series Touring is available with three engines, all featuring BMW’s TwinPower Turbo technology. The 328i uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 245hp. BMW claims 0-100km/h in 6.0 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h for this model. The 320d is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel with 184hp and 380Nm of torque, reaching 100km/h in 7.7 seconds and topping out at 230km/h. The range-topping 330d comes with a 3.0-litre straight-six diesel, delivering 250hp and 560Nm, with a 0-100km/h time of 5.6 seconds and a 250km/h top speed.
| 328i Touring | 2.0-litre turbo petrol, 245hp, 0-100km/h in 6.0s, 250km/h top speed |
|---|---|
| 320d Touring | 2.0-litre turbo diesel, 184hp, 0-100km/h in 7.7s, 230km/h top speed |
| 330d Touring | 3.0-litre turbo diesel, 250hp, 0-100km/h in 5.6s, 250km/h top speed |
All engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards, with BMW noting that the 2.0-litre diesel can be adapted to comply with Euro 6 requirements. Each engine is paired with either a manual or automatic transmission, though detailed gearbox options for each variant were not specified at launch.
Trim levels and chassis options
Buyers will be able to specify the new Touring in Sport Line, Luxury Line or Modern Line trims, each offering unique interior and exterior details. For those seeking sharper handling, BMW offers M Sport suspension as standard on the M Sport package, with adaptive M Sport suspension available as an option. This approach mirrors the flexibility seen in other recent BMW models, such as the 5 Series Gran Turismo.
The Touring’s longer wheelbase and revised suspension geometry are intended to maintain the 3 Series’ reputation for balanced handling, even with the extra weight and capacity of the estate body. The company also highlights the availability of advanced driver assistance and infotainment features, though details were not fully disclosed at the initial reveal.
Further engine options and market launch
BMW confirmed that three additional engines would join the Touring range after launch: the 320i petrol, the 318d diesel and the entry-level 316d diesel. Power outputs for these units are 184hp for the 320i, 143hp for the 318d and 116hp for the 316d. This broadens the appeal of the Touring to a wider range of buyers, including those prioritising lower running costs.
- 320i: 2.0-litre turbo petrol, 184hp
- 318d: 2.0-litre turbo diesel, 143hp, 320Nm
- 316d: 2.0-litre turbo diesel, 116hp, 260Nm
The 2013 3 Series Touring is expected to start at just over €25,000 in Europe for the entry-level model, with deliveries beginning later in 2012. US availability is set for spring 2013. BMW has not yet released detailed pricing or specifications for all markets.
Position in the market
With its combination of increased practicality, a broad engine line-up and optional chassis upgrades, the new 3 Series Touring is aimed squarely at buyers seeking a premium estate with everyday usability. The Touring’s rivals include the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate, both of which have also recently been updated or are due for replacement. For those wanting even more space or a different body style, BMW’s own 5 Series Gran Turismooffers a higher driving position and flexible interior, though with a larger footprint and price tag.
