BMW has released images and initial specifications for the 3 Series Gran Turismo. This, the first five-door hatchback in the history of the 3 Series, is longer and taller than the sedan and wagon variants.

Developed under the codename F34, this rival for the Audi A5 Sportback will be seen for the first time at next month’s Geneva motor show. Sales in European markets are due to follow in the summer, with all launch variants to be rear-wheel drive. XDrive (AWD) versions are expected to follow later in the year for relevant markets. The new model will be built at BMW’s Leipzig plant.

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The Gran Turismo is 200 millimetres longer than the 3 Series Touring and comes with a wheelbase that has been stretched by 110mm. The car also stands 81 millimetres taller than the sedan, while its 520 litre boot capacity outstrips that of the 3 Series Touring by 25 litres. The 2,920mm wheelbase is identical to that of the 3 Series Li, the special long-wheelbase sedan which is built only in China.

Engine outputs will range from 105kW/143hp to 225kW/306hp. All the powerplants at launch will be turbocharged. The range-topping six-cylinder petrol engine in the 335i Gran Turismo is joined by four-cylinder petrol units in the 328i and 320i. As for diesels, both the 320d and 318d are to be powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit. Transmissions will be either six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic.

BMW has confirmed that it will sell the new model in the USA from later in 2013. There, just the 328i GT and 335i GT will be offered.

Author: Glenn Brooks

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