**Overview: BMW 3 Series Touring - A Masterful Blend of Style and Versatility**
**What Is It?**
The BMW 3 Series Touring is a familiar face to those well-versed in the 3 Series lineup. Unveiling minimal surprises, the front end closely mirrors its recently facelifted saloon counterpart. Fortunately, both the 3 and 5 Series have sidestepped BMW's contentious new design direction, maintaining the Touring's allure. With sleek lines and a striking presence, the seventh-gen G21 Touring stands as an embodiment of timeless elegance.
**Facelift Flourish: A Glimpse into the Future**
The mid-2022 facelift bestowed upon the 3 Series Touring introduces a refined aesthetic, aligning with the refreshed saloon. Slimmer lights, assertive bumpers, and BMW's new Curved Display elevate the Touring's interior, featuring a seamless 12.3-inch dial display and a 14.9-inch central infotainment screen merged into a captivating widescreen unit.
**Crafting Dynamism: A Distinct Rear Design**
The rear design reflects a meticulous departure from merely resizing a 5 Series. The lower line of the glass takes an upward trajectory behind the door, creating the most significant Hofmeister kink to date. This design choice not only introduces a dynamic flair but also emphasizes the Touring's forward-looking aesthetic. In the UK, the Sport and M Sport trims offer distinct rear styling, catering to varied tastes.
**Size Matters, But Not Excessively**
Remaining consistent in length with the contemporary saloon, the Touring subtly grew in this latest generation. While the increase in size is marginal, it prioritizes crash safety rather than significantly enhancing interior space. The Touring boasts a stylish silhouette, housing a 500-litre boot (or 410 litres for the plug-in hybrid variant), placing it in line with premium wagons, though marginally less spacious than some competitors like the Volkswagen Passat.
**Power and Propulsion Options: Tailored for Every Need**
The UK market offers a diverse range of powertrains for the 3 Series Touring. The 320d, equipped with a 48V mild-hybrid system, is the standard diesel choice, available in rear- or all-wheel drive. The 320i and 330i, both rear-wheel drive, represent the standard petrol options. For those embracing electrification, the plug-in hybrid 330e features a 12kWh battery and an electric motor, complementing its four-cylinder petrol engine. The ultimate 3 Series experience awaits in the M340d xDrive or the M340i xDrive, providing an exhilarating drive.
**Market Success and Price Points**
Contrary to assumptions favoring SUVs, the 3 Series Touring maintains its popularity in the UK, claiming the top-selling position for BMW in 2022. Globally, it constitutes approximately 14% of BMW's sales. The price spectrum begins at £41,000 for the base-spec Sport trim 320i, extending to £59,735 for the M340i.
**Our Verdict: A Car for Every Need**
“For the vast majority of us, the 3 Series Touring is all the car we could use or want." Its versatility, dynamic driving experience, and stylish design make it an optimal choice for most drivers. Unless specific needs demand excessive rear-seat space or cargo capacity, the 3 Series Touring stands as a formidable option. It not only inherits the exceptional driving qualities of the saloon but also amplifies its utility. The M340i xDrive Touring, in particular, showcases a remarkable breadth of capabilities that sets a high standard in the automotive landscape. The 3 Series Touring isn't just a car; it's a vehicle that effortlessly accommodates both practicality and performance, offering a slice of the automotive dream.
