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BMW 3 Series GT Concept Coming to Paris Motor Show

BMW is slowly adding GT versions to its major models

BMWBMWGermany, 1918 > present87 models
8471 photos
43 videos
keeps adding GT variants to its major models. The 5 Series GTBMW 550i Gran TurismoGermany, 2012 > present2 photos
debuted a few years ago, and the production, front-wheel drive 1 SeriesBMW 1 Series Gen.2 [F20] Germany, 2011 > present130 versions
247 photos
GT will debut at the Paris Motor Show on September 27. BMW is also bringing a 3 SeriesBMW BMW 3 Series Gen.6 [F30/F31]Germany, 2012 > present115 versions
355 photos
1 video
GT concept to the Paris Motor Show. The concept will be a lightly veiled production model, and production is planned for 2013.

The 3 Series GT will be based on the long wheelbase 3 Series from China. The long wheelbase has a 110mm longer wheelbase than the standard car. The interior has more room than the sedan or wagon versions. The car will have a glass roof options

In the future, BMW is working on a Gran Coupe version of the 3 Series that is likely due in 2015.

The 3 Series Generations

Launched in 1975, the 3 Series is a compact executive car, successor of the New Class, and is currently produced in its 6th generation. When launched just after the 1973 oil crisis, the model attracted customers seeking both prestige and economy. BMW could nearly double its worldwide sales figures in three years thanks to this model which continues a bestseller and received several automotive awards and honors.

1. BMW 3-Series: 1975-1982

The first 3 Series came in 1975. The two-door sedan had a compact but at the same time ‘grown-up’ appearance, complemented by sporty suspension technology and four-cylinder engines with a displacement of 1573, 1766 and 1990 cc respectively. The model designations were 316, 318, 320 and 320i. In 1981, the millionth 3 Series was completed after just six years of production, making it the most successful BMW of its period.

2. BMW 3 Series: 1982-1990

The 2nd 3 Series brought a new design, optimised aerodynamics, more space and comfort, higher power and additional body and engine variants. A four-door car (1983), a convertible and the M3 sports car (both 1985) joined. Also the first diesel and first four-wheel drive models are offered. With more than 2.3 million units sold, sales of the predecessor model were even exceeded by a million.

3. BMW 3 Series: 1990 - 1998

In 1990, the 3rd generation was introduced, being larger and more spacious. The two-door coupe, convertible and the M3 followed in 1992. The 3 Series Compact was launched in 1994. The power units in the coupé version featured for the first time VANOS variable camshaft control. Two further newcomers were the 325tds featuring a six-cylinder diesel engine as well as the first four-cylinder turbo diesel under the bonnet of the 318tds.

4. BMW 3 Series: 1998 - 2005

1998 saw the arrival of the 4th 3 Series, which was four centimetres longer and wider than its predecessor, the interior also having grown accordingly. At the end of 1999, it was 3rd in the registration statistics, something a car in this class had never achieved before.

5. BMW 3 Series: 2005 - 2012

The 5th generation of the 3 Series celebrated its world premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show 2005. The BMW Efficient Dynamics development strategy introduced fuel economy and low emission levels to the line-up. In the model year 2010, all engines fulfilled the EU5 emission standard.

6. BMW 3 Series: since 2012

BMW introduced the 6th, and current, generation for the 3-Series model in November 2011. The new 3 Series grew significantly over the previous model but is at the same time 40 kg lighter. For the first time, the 3-series is available exclusively with turbocharged engines. Base engine is the 2.0, liter 328i with 245hp, most efficient is the 320d EfficientDynamics with 163hp and most powerful is the 335i with 306hp.