After the facelifted 2016 BMW 3-Series Sedan and Touring, it’s the Gran Turismo’s turn for a mid-cycle refresh.
Even though it’s not wearing the correct wheels, the model seen here is the newly named 340i GT, currently known as the 335i GT, with an M Sport package.
The placement of the camouflage tells us where the changes will occur on the outside, and which include modestly tweaked bumpers, new tubular LEDs for the rear lights, and new headlamp internals. If you squint hard enough, you may notice that the double kidney grille looks lower and wider than before.
Similarly to the rest of the facelifted 3-Series range, the five-door GT that rides on an extended wheelbase shared with China’s LWB 3-Series sedan, should get improved perceived quality and ergonomics, together with new color choices and an updated and faster version of BMW’s ConnectedDrive infotainment system.
We don’t know yet if the GT will get the same chassis tweaks as the sedan and estate cars that feature re-tuned dampers, stiffer suspension and fettled steering to improve agility, but for drivers who place handling and feel over comfort, it would certainly be a welcome update.
Under the hood, we expect to see the GT to adopt the same updated range of engines found on the other 3-Series cars, including a 320hp 3.0-liter straight six turbo for the 340i replacing the 300hp 335i, and an uprated 249hp (252PS) 2.0-liter turbocharged four gasoline mill for Europe’s 330i (North America will likely continue with the same 240hp 2.0L turbo 328i in xDrive trim). BMW’s newest four-pot diesels will also be on offer in Europe.
The 2017 3-Series Grand Turismo should be introduced during the first half of next year.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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