2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Review

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BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 330i xDrive SULEV 4dr Hatchback Exterior. Luxury Design Package Shown.

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 340i xDrive 4dr Hatchback Exterior. M Sport Package Shown.

2017 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 340i xDrive 4dr Hatchback Exterior. Sport Line Package Shown.

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Used 3 Series Gran Turismo for sale

List Price Range:	$25,589 - $26,998

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BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo model years

BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo for Sale

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Edmunds' Expert Review

byJonathan Elfalan^{Director, Vehicle Testing
Jonathan Elfalan has worked in the automotive industry since 2005. As a director of vehicle testing at Edmunds, Jonathan has tested and reviewed thousands of cars and written thousands of car-related articles over the course of his career. Jonathan got his start testing cars for Road & Track magazine as a newly minted mechanical engineer grad from University of California, Irvine, and has also contributed to Motor Trend and the Associated Press. He likes to say he learned to drive a manual transmission in a rear-wheel-drive mid-engine vehicle but often omits it was his family's 1991 Toyota Previa minivan.}

Pros

Hatchback utility with sport sedan performance
More rear legroom than a regular 3 Series
Strong and fuel-efficient engines
All-wheel drive is standard

Cons

Some basic conveniences aren't standard
Sloping roofline cuts into rear headroom
Less cargo volume than a comparable crossover SUV
Outward visibility isn't great

What’s new

Changes to the 3 Series Gran Turismo are pretty minor for 2018. A rearview camera is now standard along with BMW's ConnectedDrive Services, and BMW's iDrive interface has been upgraded to the latest 6.0 version, with new navigation (if equipped) and touchscreen technology. BMW has also shuffled around the availability of some of the Gran Turismo's optional content.

Vehicle overview

The 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is an interesting mix of vehicle traits. It's not a crossover, but it comes with all-wheel drive and a slightly elevated seating position. It offers more cargo capacity than a 3 Series wagon and more rear legroom than a BMW X3, yet most would say it handles very much like a sedan.

Cost to Drive^{Cost to drive estimates for the 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 330i xDrive 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $4.10 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.}

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$186/mo

3 Series Gran Turismo 330i xDrive

$171/mo

Avg. Midsize Car

Calculate my fuel costs

If you can get past the slightly awkward proportions of 3 Series GT, it begins to look like a best-of-all-worlds vehicle. There's strong turbocharged acceleration even from the base 330i's four-cylinder engine and ample amounts of buttery-smooth thrust should you opt for the 340i with its turbo inline six-cylinder. All models also come standard with BMW's xDrive for all-season traction.

So what are the shortcomings? Well, ultimately the 3 Series-based X3 SUV still has more cargo room and ground clearance, and the smaller sedan and wagon variants deliver more of the crisp handling that BMWs are known for. However, we think those things matter less than the Gran Turismo's list of standard equipment, which doesn't include basic luxury-level items such as keyless entry and adjustable lumbar support. At this price, those features should be included.

Edmunds' Expert Rating

The 3 Series Gran Turismo is the obvious solution to the problem: "I want a BMW 3 Series sedan but need more passenger and cargo room. And I don't want an SUV. Or a wagon." OK, so this isn't a problem many people have. But for what it sets out to do, the 3 Series Gran Turismo performs admirably.

Trim tested

Each vehicle typically comes in multiple versions, although trim levels share many aspects. The ratings in this review are based on our full test of the 2014 BMW 328i xDrive Gran Turismo (turbo 2.0L inline-4 | 8-speed automatic | AWD).

NOTE: Since this test was conducted, the current 3 Series Gran Turismo has been revised, including new engines introduced in 2017. Our findings remain broadly applicable to this year's 3 Series Gran Turismo, though keep in mind that the four-cylinder engine in the 328i rated here generates slightly less horsepower and torque than one found in the 2018 330i.

Driving

Don't let the Gran Turismo's 4.4-inch-longer wheelbase (versus the 3 Series sedan's), elevated seating position or hatchback body style fool you. This is still a true performance machine. It's a joy to drive with plenty of seat-of-the-pants feel that boosts the driver's confidence.

Acceleration

The turbo four-cylinder's instant-on low-end torque makes this engine terrific. Acceleration around town or at highway cruising speeds is effortless. The eight-speed automatic is smooth and smart, holding gears nicely when it needs to.

Braking

In our panic-stop brake test, the Gran Turismo posted average results. For typical use, we found the brakes to be predictably linear and highly effective in most situations, with no detectable fade after hard driving and no grabbiness in daily driving.

Steering

Excellent feedback through the wheel with natural weighting. It's not as precise as BMW's previous hydraulic setup, but it's exceptionally good as far as electric-assist systems go. This car goes exactly where you point it.

Handling

Partially due to our test car's optional adaptive suspension dampers, this wagon-crossover-AWD thing still acts like a BMW. It's nimble and willing on curvy roads but forgiving and easy to drive on long highway slogs.

Drivability

The engine stop-start system is more intrusive than others and can shut off too quickly, such as when turning right on red. The gas pedal can be lurchy in Sport mode; Comfort mode replaces this with dullness. The cruise control is fantastic at holding a set speed.

Comfort

Especially with our test car's optional adaptive shock absorbers, the Gran Turismo deftly balances comfort and driving performance. It's remarkably quiet, too.

Seat comfort

The optional front sport seats have firm cushions, but seatback bolstering is substantial and the leather is grippy. The front armrests have good padding and are positioned well. The rear seat cushions are even firmer than the fronts, and the seatback angle is a bit too upright.

Ride comfort

With the hard sidewalls of the standard run-flat tires, no one will call the GT cushy. But the optional adaptive suspension helps greatly. Smaller ripples can find their way into the cabin, but the big bumps stay out.

Noise & vibration

Other than obvious tire noise when driving over expansion joints, this is a truly quiet car with nearly zero wind noise. The engine isn't as smooth as BMW's classic six-cylinder. At higher speeds, some engine noise does creep into the cabin.

Climate control

The dual-zone climate control has simple dials and buttons, and in typical BMW fashion, everything is easy for the driver or front passenger to reach.

Interior

High-quality materials combine with a thoughtful, if plain, design to earn this car top scores. The small interior cubbies and bins could be of some concern, but the Gran Turismo makes up for this with laudable cargo capacity.

Ease of use

Well-organized controls are easy to use, and the iDrive infotainment system is quite intuitive despite its complex menus. The rocker switch to alter the drive modes is conveniently located next to the gear selector, where it's easy to see and access.

Getting in/getting out

The front doors open wide, and there's little risk of hitting your head on the roof. There also isn't anything to catch your feet up on. The rear doors are small but open nearly 90 degrees. The entryway isn't large, so you have to duck a bit to get in and out.

Driving position

A standard tilt-and-telescoping steering column and highly adjustable seats allow just about anyone to find a comfortable driving position. And because of the GT's extra rear legroom, taller drivers won't feel bad stretching out.

Roominess

Front headroom and door-side elbow room are more than adequate. Rear headroom is tight due to the sloping roof, but the GT has 4.1 inches more rear legroom than the 3 Series sedan, and that's a difference your passengers will notice.

Visibility

The windshield pillars get thick toward the bottom, causing some sideview obstruction. The left-side, over-the-shoulder lane check is problematic, as is the big rear three-quarter blind spot.

Quality

The GT is solidly built and boasts excellent materials and precise engineering. No gimmicks. However, we did notice one occasional dash rattle in our test car.

Utility

Another strong suit for the Gran Turismo. There's a shortage of handy nooks for stashing smaller items (a typical BMW shortcoming), but the 3 Series GT compensates with its capacious and user-friendly cargo hold.

Small-item storage

As in many BMWs, small-item storage space isn't generous. There's a tiny front bin and a small center bin, and the cupholders lack anti-tip features. Minimalism can be beautiful, but in this case it comes at the expense of convenience.

Cargo space

You'll find helpful pull handles in the trunk to drop the rear seatbacks. The 24.6-cubic-foot trunk is narrow but deep, with a perfect loading height. The liftgate opens high for ample head clearance.

Technology

Our experiences with the new iDrive 6.0 system in other BMWs have been primarily positive. The menus can be rather extensive, but iDrive offers a convenient way to navigate through them. Apple CarPlay is also a welcome option, and the active driver aids are better than most.

2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo models

The 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is available in two trim levels: 330i xDrive and 340i xDrive. All-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission come standard on both. The main difference is under the hood. The 330i packs a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder (248 horsepower, 258 pound-feet of torque) and the 340i upgrades to a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder (320 hp, 330 lb-ft).

The Gran Turismo 330i xDrive isn't brimming with standard luxuries, but it does include 18-inch alloy wheels (with all-season run-flat tires), LED headlights, automatic wipers, power-folding and auto-dimming side mirrors, a panoramic sunroof and a power liftgate. Interior highlights include dual-zone automatic climate control, power-adjustable sport front seats, driver-seat memory settings, simulated leather upholstery, a rearview camera, 40/20/40-split folding rear seatbacks and an auto-dimming rearview mirror. On the technology front, the 330i comes standard with Bluetooth, BMW's iDrive infotainment interface, a 6.5-inch display screen, BMW Connected Services, and a nine-speaker audio system with a CD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack and a USB port.

An optional Convenience package (note that BMW calls its packages "tiers") adds keyless ignition and entry, power lumbar support and satellite radio.

The 340i xDrive has the above equipment plus the Convenience package as standard.

Selecting the Premium package for either model adds heated front seats, a navigation system, a larger 8.8-inch display, a head-up display, and BMW Remote Services, allowing for remote controlled functions through the mobile app.

The next level up is the Executive tier. It includes a surround-view parking camera system, adaptive full LED headlights with automatic high beams, leather upholstery, a digital instrument cluster and BMW's Parking Assistant, which helps guide you into parking spaces.

You can add the M Sport Design package to either of the top two tiers. It offers a variety of sport-themed interior trim treatments, an aerodynamic body kit, BMW's Shadowline exterior trim, an M steering wheel, and an option to add the Adaptive M suspension.

For added safety, consider the Driver Assistance package. It includes lane departure warning, forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, a drowsy driver warning system and a speed-limit display.

Stand-alone options for the Gran Turismo include 19-inch wheels, a heated steering wheel, heated rear seats, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, Apple CarPlay, and wireless charging with a Wi-Fi hotspot.

Consumer reviews

Read what other owners think about the Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo.

5 (44%)

4 (42%)

3 (8%)

2 (6%)

1 (0%)

4.3

36 reviews

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Most helpful consumer reviews

Best of both worlds

Blaze Nielsen, 01/24/2016

2016 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 328i xDrive SULEV 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

Previous car was a 328 Xi. The Gran Tourismo gives you LOTS more room front and especially rear seats for long legged passengers. Handling is comfy in standard "old folks" mode easy on your butt, however with the sport package option, press a button and steering, transmission and suspension kick in to provide that old familiar handling performance I knew with the previous BMW. For people …

Kid and family friendly!

kris2, 03/29/2015

2015 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 328i xDrive 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

I liked the 3 sedan but wanted something with more room in the back so looked at the 5 series, TLX, Lexus GS, ES (back seat was huge but drive was disconnected) . 3 series GT was a last minute thing and the moment we looked at it we knew we were getting it. If you have family that will ride in the second row regularly or have baby seats you should definitely look at the GT before you …

Beautiful Car Inside & Out, Unique, Comfy

Craig List, 12/02/2015

2015 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 328i xDrive SULEV 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

This is by far the best car I've ever had. For me, it is the kind of car that will make me glad I have to drive somewhere. The Sports seat comfort with thigh-support pull-out is excellent, as are the adjustable bolsters. I have a bad back with L5-S1 herniation history, yet don't have the leather, or lumbar supports, but don't need or want them! I switched over from Buick, primarily … because of seat support and comfort. The firm ride handles everything quite nimbly, for such a heavy absorbent BMW feel. I got the Sport Line trim package, with the optional M-Sport steering wheel, overall a very nice appearance. I get a lot of stares and questions on it; the Silver metallic with Sports Line trim (+ tinted windows and an added rear hatch window spoiler). There is a bit of delay in acceleration on occasion, its almost like you have to time it to get it right; despite the twin-scroll turbo which improves things, but once it goes (you MUST use Sports+ Mode to actually feel it), it rocks! The grandkids always beg me "Opa, put it in Sport Mode!". Braking is solid. There is a tad bit of sway for significant cornering, expected but not bad for a heavier car (I was told that this is actually a 5-series platform/chassis, but I haven't been able to confirm that; if you are cross-shopping w/the 4 series Gran Coupe/GC, one dealer actually said the 3GT is actually a 5-series, and the 4GC is actually a 3-series!). There is a bit of engine noise during hard acceleration, but it is not bad. There is a bit of sunroof wind noise, probably my primary complaint overall as the ride experience goes (made much worse by the base rack which I now only use when transporting bikes/kayaks), but yet I am still able to chair tele-conferences with no problems while speaking or hearing on other end via Bluetooth, which is consistent and without problems despite previous reviewers comments. Road noise is minimal, enough to know your in a motor vehicle, but kept to a minimum. I love the back liftgate, as it is easier to load and unload than a typical trunk. It is by intent a coupe design, meaning a lowered-in cockpit feel, so getting in and out is not as easier as you might think for a car that sits higher than a traditional 3-series sedan. The infotainment system works great; you can look at the large monitor screen while scrolling and tapping, without even looking at the iDrive you are manipulating with your right hand...and the base stereo which is Harmon-Kardon is actually pretty good, but I am going to upgrade the front dash & door speakers because I am an audiophile. I agree with a friend who used to work in an upscale audio center that the low end preforms very well (as there are 2 subwoofers, located underneath the front seats), the midrange and high end/tweeter are fine/good but not great. The Nav works very well and is worth it. The internal HD for music storage is a great feature, but I HATE how it only plays back the songs on a CD that you recorded in alphabetical order --- word to BMW: album rock and live music CDs are meant to be played in the track order recorded, stop being so organized you Germans!:). Playing off a thumbdrive is also very easy, and the steering wheel mounted controls help, although I believe in terms of human ergonomics, that the volume and media controls should be on the Left side of the steering wheel, NOT the Right [if you look at the actual dash stereo controls and the steering wheel stereo controls, they are literally only about 6 inches apart from each other, so the point of saving a reach or having multiple ways to do the same thing is minimized; why not place those stereo controls on the Left, now you can control the stereo functions with either your Left or your Right hand?]! I have averaged in the high 20s for MPG in mixed driving; I do not gun it a lot, but I certainly drive it in a more spirited manner a couple times a week! I have averaged 36-38 MPG on long trips in ECO mode, one trick to doing this well (I once got 39 MPG on a long trip!) is increasing the tire pressures to 33 PSI-front & 36 PSI-back (32 & 35 recommended, but there is always an acceptable range). Check & adjust your PSI twice a month, so many people don't do this and it is extremely important, especially the way the vehicle dynamics in this vehicle work, and the fact that front & rear are 3 PSI difference! The handling, agility, and MPG are significantly affected by PSI.

In its own class

Richard Wilson, 06/24/2016

2016 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 328i xDrive SULEV 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)

Practical aspects of a SUV while still as sleek as a sedan. Cofortable and quiet. Lots of rear seat leg room and flexible storage space. Fun to drive. Lots to learn with all the gadgets. If you don't get the various packages built to your specifications (2-3 months), then have to compromise on what's available - not a lot of these around - in its niche class.

We have a limited number of reviews for the 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, so we've included reviews for other years of the 3 Series Gran Turismo since its last redesign.

See all 36 reviews of the BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo

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2018 3 Series Gran Turismo Highlights

Trim:

330i xDrive

Combined MPG	27 MPG
Cost to Drive	$186/month
Seating	5 seats
Drivetrain	all wheel drive
Engine Type	Gas
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

See all features & specs

Safety

Our experts like the 3 Series Gran Turismo models:

Active Cruise Control: Maintains a set speed and distance interval from the car ahead. Will bring the car to a stop if needed.
Active Blind-Spot Detection: Warns of approaching vehicles in adjacent lanes using a radar-based system. A warning symbol illuminates on the exterior mirrors.
Frontal Collision Warning and Mitigation: Guards against collisions with driver alerts and, if necessary, automatic emergency braking. Uses a camera-based system.

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.

Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
Overall4 / 5
Driver4 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Side Crash Rating
Overall5 / 5
Side Barrier Rating
Overall5 / 5
Driver5 / 5
Passenger5 / 5
Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
Front Seat5 / 5
Back Seat5 / 5
Rollover
Rollover5 / 5
Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
Risk Of Rollover9.5%

More about the 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo

Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo Overview

The Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo is offered in the following submodels: 3 Series Gran Turismo Hatchback. Available styles include 330i xDrive 4dr Hatchback AWD (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), and 340i xDrive 4dr Hatchback AWD (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A). Pre-owned BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 3.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 320 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo comes with all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic.

What's a good price on a Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo?

Price comparisons for Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo trim styles:

The Used 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo 330i xDrive is priced between $25,589 and$26,998 with odometer readings between 49019 and58509 miles.

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Should I lease or buy a 2018 BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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