After revealing itself online last month, the new generation BMW 3-Series Touring has started arriving in the hands of journalists in Europe. And if you haven’t heard, we’ll remind you that we won’t be getting it in the United States, as the German company decided to stop offering estates completely and focus instead on SUVs and crossovers.
It’s a pity, as BMW‘s compact premium wagon retains the sharp styling and engaging driving experience of the sedan, upping the game with a 500-liter (17.7 cu-ft) practical boot that can expand up to 1,510 liters (53.3 cu-ft) with the rear seats folded down.
A rival to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate and Audi A4 Avant, the 2020 3-Series Touring is still a proper driver’s car, with lots of feedback coming through the steering wheel and a rather firm ride with great levels of grip. Choose the adaptive air suspension and the ride becomes softer, but not at the expense of the steering feel.
Also Read: Did You Know The BMW 3-Series Touring’s Rear Window Can Be Opened?
The driver-focused interior is enhanced by the presence of premium materials and a high-definition screen for the infotainment system that’s very easy to control thanks to the rotary dial. The car has more space for passengers than its predecessor, so even tall occupants will not complain about the knee or headroom on the rear bench.
When it goes on sale this fall, the 2020 3-Series Touring will be offered with three gasoline and four diesel units, including the 330d xDrive tested by AutoTrader on video below. The oil burner provides massive pull throughout the rev range while also being smooth and quiet. In addition, the 8-speed automatic transmission feels very refined.
Like its predecessors, this is a car for the entire family aimed at driving enthusiasts, which is both useful and enjoyable. The price to pay in Britain is £35,235 ($43,610/€39,190) for the base grade, £4,110 ($5,087/€4,571) more than the C-Class Estate and £4,757 ($5,888/€5,291) more than the A4 Avant.