BMW 318d GT tested (exterior design, interior and load capacity)

In the first part of the experiment, we have told you about the feelings that the BMW 318d GT After getting behind the wheel and doing almost 1.200 kilometers, now it’s time to detail what we found on board, the interior design, but also the exterior and load capacity, let’s go there.

Exterior design: between a sedan and a station wagon, attributes of both

In general terms, The 3 Series GT retains the frontal features that define the BMW range, the double kidney as a symbol of the brand’s identity, together with two headlights that project outwards and give it that strong look. When compared to the 3 Series Sedan, the front is clearly higher, and the kidneys, bumpers and headlights also gain in size.

On the side we see how two ‘incisions’ give dynamism to the profile of the 3 GT, as well as the side gills just behind the front wheel arch, make it clear that this is the Gran Turismo. The glass surface is generous, something that is noticeable both from inside and outside the car, and it is the profile that reveals more details about the positioning of the 3 Series GT.

Its conception is linked to the satisfaction of a need for space for customers who do not want to opt for a station wagon, station wagon or, in this case, the 3 Series Touring, the roofline reminiscent of a coupe but also of a fastback, fit this type of profile, offering a distinctive style and greater load capacity as well as more interior space.

The 3 Series GT is built on the V3 platform, the same as the 3 Series Li (long chassis version) which makes it 20 cm longer than the 3 Series Sedan, while it has 11 cm more wheelbase and is also 8 cm higher. Without a doubt, it is designed to offer space for occupants and luggage or cargo that we wish to transport.

It is defined as a PAC, an acronym for Progressive Activity Vehicle, placing it halfway between a station wagon and a compact SUV, from which comes the peculiar design of the rear, the generous access door to the trunk and the height of the ground for loading it. From this point of view, in addition to a more comfortable car, It is also a much more practical product..

Interior design: comfortable cabin with space for everything

The first thing to keep in mind is that the fact that the 3 GT Series is built on the V3 platform, allows its occupants to enjoy greater headroom and seats that are 6 cm higher, and this is something that is noticeable as soon as we get in, especially in the rear seats, although in the front we have plenty of space in relation to the dashboard, in general, comfort and space.

As for style, here we could add that nothing changes, The interior line is faithful to that applied in other models of the 3 range and in general, a clear dashboard dominated by the central console with the vast majority of controls and with the information and entertainment system screen standing out on the central tunnel, along with the control for this system and the EfficientDynamics control.

In the driving position we find a well-known steering wheel, of good size and touch, as well as offering convenient access to the controls. The dashboard that seems very simple, we could say that it is not very consistent with the rest of the finishes, although information can be accessed quickly and clearly, especially on the on-board computer screen.

The adjustments are more than correct, everything in its place and with a very pleasant touch, buttons, door handles, air conditioning vents, armrests, etc. The wood details have a more stately touch, but they give it an extra to create its own atmosphere, Let’s remember that BMW’s customization options are -almost- infinite, so every customer will find their style.

In short, an extremely comfortable cabin, well insulated, with first-class finishes but that looks simple, Minimalist we could say, but it makes sense to avoid distractions in order to enjoy driving and comfort on board. The seats are comfortable in any situation and rear seat occupants will enjoy the 7 cm of additional space compared to the sedan.

Load capacity: strong point for the 3 GT

It could be the main element for your purchase, It has a capacity of 520 liters which can be increased to 1.600 litres if we fold down the rear seats, with the possibility of doing so in 40:20:40 sections, all facilities on board the 3 Series GT. This capacity is 25 liters more than the 3 Series Touring and 40 additional to the capacity of the 3 Series Sedan.

This is how we close the second part of the First contact with the BMW 3 Series GT in the version 318d, test which has made it clear to us that this variant meets specific needs for comfort, capacity and – in some cases – design, a balanced proposal by BMW for those who do not want an SUV but do want space and a good driving experience.