ಬಿಎಂಡವೋ 3 Series 2015-2019 ಜಿಟಿ; 320d Sport Line

BMW India has added a new GT (Gran Tourismo) variant in its model line up, which not only has striking looks and generous interiors, but also has been offered with a lot of characteristic features. This new variant is known as BMW 3 Series GT 320d Sport Line, which is powered by a 2.0-litre diesel engine under the hood. It is paired with an advanced 8-speed steptronic automatic transmission gearbox, which helps in churning out a maximum power and torque output of 184bhp and 380Nm respectively. This particular variant has advanced aspects that includes servotronic steering assist system and BMW driving experience controls with three modes such as comfort, ECOPRO and Sport. It provides a wonderful driving experience by improving the driving dynamics. Its striking design in high gloss black portrays a vigorous look, which further reinforces the unmistakable sporting character. Apart from these, this vehicle also comes with advanced BMW efficient dynamics that features an automatic start/stop function and brake energy regeneration function, which improves the overall performance of the engine. By launching this luxury vehicle, the company has expanded its India portfolio, which helps it to strengthen its market share in the luxury car segment. This luxury is available with an unmatched warranty of two years without any limitation to its mileage. Not only this, the company is also offering this sedan with a warranty period of twelve years for body work and three years for paint work, which is rather good.

Exteriors:

This newly introduced variant comes with a striking body structure with a lot of styling aspects. Starting from the side profile, it is designed with a lot of expressive lines and chrome finished window lining, which makes it look unique from conventional models. Here the wheel arches of this premium sedan have been assembled with a classy set of 17-inch double-spoke styled alloy wheels that bring an elegant look to the sides. These rims are further covered with high performance tubeless radial tyres that gives superior road grip in every conditions. Its body colored external wing mirrors come with automatic anti dazzle along with heating functions. These mirrors also have memory setting and are integrated with LED side turn blinker. The rear profile of this sedan is quite decent, thanks to its high stance that gives it an impeccable look. The bumper comes with two tone look with a couple of chrome plated exhaust pipes fitted under the cladding. The windscreen is pretty large and integrated with a defogger. Coming to its front fascia, it has been designed with typical BMW kidney grille with eleven slats with a lot of chrome embellishment. The body colored bumper comes with a unique design and houses a large air intake section that provides better air intake for engine cooling. Apart from these, it also has a trendy headlight cluster, which is incorporated by Bi-xenon headlamps with LED DRL rings, a pair of bright fog lamps, large windscreen with rain sensing wipers and many more.

Interiors:

The company has given this Gran Tourismo variant an exclusively designed internal cabin with leather Dakota coral red/black upholstery, which gives the interiors look plush. It is further complimented by wood inserts and ambient lighting. This variant comes with chrome finished center console and sports leather wrapped steering wheel with contrasting red stitching. The seats are ergonomically designed and provide ample leg space and head room for all occupants. The cockpit is fitted with luxurious sports seats for driver and co passenger, which can be adjusted electrically. It has a high resolution instrument panel with extended contents for keeping the driver alert. The internal rear view mirror of this vehicle comes with automatic anti dazzle function that adds to the advantage. In addition to these, this variant is equipped with storage compartment package, rear seat headrest with folding, smoker's package, panoramic glass roof, rear center arm rest with two cup holders, roller sun blinds for windows, velour floor mats, arm rests with storage compartment and number of other important features.

Engine and Performance:

This recently launched variant is fitted with a 2.0-litre twin power turbo diesel engine under the bonnet, which comes with a displacement capacity of 1995c. This diesel motor has the ability to produce a maximum power output of 184bhp at 4000rpm while yielding a maximum torque of 380Nm in the range of 1750 to 2750rpm. This commanding torque output is distributed to the rear wheels through an advanced 8-speed steptronic auto transmission gearbox. The manufacturer claims that the vehicle can achieve a top speed of about 235 Kmph, while it can break the 100 Kmph speed barrier from a standstill in just about 7.9 seconds. On the other hand, this twin-power turbo diesel motor can return a maximum mileage of 19.59 Kmpl, which is quite good for Indian road and traffic conditions.

Braking and Handling:

All its four wheels are fitted with a set of highly robust disc brakes that ensures precise stopping. It is reinforced by anti lock braking system with brake assist function and cornering brake control. On the other hand, it also has dynamic traction control system along with dynamic stability control program, which will improve the traction. Its front axle is assembled with double joint spring-strut type of suspension, while rear axle has been fitted with a five-link type of mechanism. Its cabin is incorporated with a power steering with servotronic steering assist function that makes it easy to handle.

Comfort Features:

This variant comes with numerous innovative comfort features, which gives the occupants a hassle free driving experience. Some of them includes start/stop button function, a multifunctional sport leather steering wheel with lots of control buttons, lights package with ambient lighting, a high resolution instrument display with extended contents and a proficient automatic 2-zone air conditioning unit with rear AC vents. It has an advanced BMW ConnectDrive, which features iDrive with 16.5cm color display with CD drive and controller unit with direct menu control buttons, park distance control, rear view camera, HiFi loudspeaker system and Bluetooth with audio streaming. All these features put together makes it one of the comfortable vehicle in its segment.

Safety Features:

The car manufacturer is offering this particular variant with a lot of innovative yet highly sophisticated features. It comes with BMW secure advanced package including tyres, alloys, engine shield, interior protection, cover and key lock out assistance. It has an advanced bumper system wherein the front and rear bumpers comes with replaceable deformation elements that can absorb the impact at up to 15 Kmph. It also has three point seat belts with pretentioners and force limiters that restrain the occupants safely in case of collision. Apart from these, this trim also features electronic vehicle immobilizer, dual front airbags along with side and head airbags for enhanced protection, ISOFIX child seat mounting, crash sensor, run flat indicator, warning triangles with first aid kit, emergency spare wheel and much more.

Pros:

1. Striking appearance with a lot of styling aspects.
2. Sophisticated internal cabin with numerous comfort and safety aspects.

Cons:

1. High cost of ownership.
2. Ground clearance needs to improve.