BMW released its 3 Series Gran Turismo models in the U.S. for 2014, blending merits of a coupe, sedan, and hatchback. Built on a longer wheelbase than the sedan’s, the GT promises greater space in the rear compartment.
For the 2017 model year, several new model designations are joining the 3 Series lineup, including the 340i Gran Turismo, which supplants the prior 335i GT. Essentially a niche member of the compact 3 Series, the 340i Gran Turismo adds hatchback utility, a stylish profile, and a bit more passenger room to the basic sedan architecture.
What's New for 2017
The new 340i GT has the same silhouette as the 335i GT that it replaces. Modifications include standard LED headlights and foglamps, along with L-shaped LED taillights in a revised back bumper. Matte chrome exterior trim is standard. Inside, chrome accents surround the air vents. Ambient lighting surrounds the center stack.
A Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel is standard. Wireless charging and a wi-fi hotspot with enhanced USB and Bluetooth is optional, while available navigation is updated to iDrive 5.0. The Lighting Package includes new LED adaptive headlights.
Choosing Your BMW 340i Grand Turismo
Moving from the 335i to 340i designation accompanies a power boost for BMW’s 3-liter inline six-cylinder engine, now developing 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque—up from 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet for the 335i GT. An eight-speed automatic transmission and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive again are standard. Fuel economy is estimated at 20 mpg in city driving and 30 mpg on the highway (24 mpg combined). Automatic stop/start is standard.
Built on a 115-inch wheelbase (versus 110.6 inches for the 340i sedan), and 7.2 inches longer overall, the Gran Turismo promises 4.1 extra inches of rear legroom, as well as more cargo space.
Standard equipment is similar to the 330i GT, with the addition of a Nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel, keyless entry, lumbar-support adjustment, satellite radio with one-year subscription, and Harman Kardon surround-sound audio. Also standard are power front seats with a driver’s memory, automatic climate control, full LED headlights, a panoramic moonroof, and hands-free power trunk lid.
SensaTec leatherette upholstery is standard, but Dakota leather can replace it for $1,450. A Luxury Package with distinctive trim is a no-charge option. The 340i GT rides on 18-inch double-spoke alloy wheels, with 19s optional.
Pricing starts at $50,645 (including destination charge). As usual, BMW offers a variety of option groups. For $2,550 additional, the M Sport Package includes 18-inch star-spoke wheels, aluminum or wood interior trim, an M steering wheel, aerodynamic body kit, and a sport-tuned suspension. An adaptive suspension may be added for $700. Or, the Dynamic Handling Package includes the adaptive setup along with variable sport steering.
A navigation system comes with the $2,750 Technology Package, which also adds an expanded instrument display, real-time traffic information, head-up display, and a suite of integrated smartphone apps. The Cold Weather Package adds heated seats all around and a heated steering wheel. A Lighting Package includes adaptive headlights and automatic high beams.
Rather than making a rearview camera standard, BMW puts it into a $950 Driver Assistance Package, coupled with front and rear parking sensors. For $1,700, the Driver Assistance Plus version adds blind-spot monitoring, lane departure and forward collision warnings, city collision mitigation, pedestrian warning, a surround-view camera system, and speed-limit data. Adaptive cruise control is a standalone option, as is an automated parallel-parking system.
Picking a GT over BMW’s regular 3 Series sedan makes sense for drivers who like to keep rear passengers comfortable. Adding too many options can send the total price soaring. Because of its active-safety features and moderate cost, we heartily recommend the Driver Assistance Plus Package, as well as the lower-cost version with the rearview camera. If you’d be satisfied with performance of the four-cylinder engine, that could save $5,700.