Under The Spotlight: Asian Carmakers Corporation Launches The BMW 3 Series GT

Asian Carmakers Corporation (ACC), the distributor of BMW in the Philippines, has launched the BMW 3 Series GranTurismo (GT) to the public last weekend at the 2013 BMW Xpo, held from Oct. 4 – 6.

Sport Line

Modern Line

Luxury Line

Currently, there is only one model available. The BMW 320d, which is available in 3 different trims in what BMW calls “Lines”. These three trims are called Sport, Modern, and Luxury, with each model priced at 3,890,000. For those who still don’t know what BMW Lines are, it all started with the 1 Series, with each line emphasizing a specific character of a certain BMW.

The BMW 320d is powered by a 2.0 liter diesel engine with TwinPower Turbo technology, producing 184 hp @ 4000 rpm, and 380 Nm of torque @ 1,750 to 2,750 rpm. On paper, the performance numbers do not disappoint, with a 0-100 km/h acceleration done in 8 seconds, whilst consuming only 5 liters of fuel per 100km. and emitting only 131 g/km of C02, which is expected, as the Germans are known for very clean and efficient engines with excellent performance. These efficient figures are made possible by BMW EfficientDynamics. The technologies behind BMW EfficientDynamics are the Auto Stop/Start function, Brake Energy Regeration, and Eco Pro mode, a driving mode that is currently being rolled out in other BMW models.

      

What is noticeable to our eyes is of course, its rather controversial design. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I’ll let you be the judge. Being a BMW GranTurismo, it combines the versatility of a station wagon (or Touring in BMW language), the sloping roofline of a coupe, and the spacious passenger space of an SUV. The 3 Series GranTurismo is 200 mm longer, and 81 mm taller than the BMW 3 Series Sedan. Also, its wheelbase grew by 110 mm and so did its legroom by 75 mm. Having a trunk capacity of 520 liters, it is 25 liters more than the 3 Series Touring’s.

The BMW 320d GranTurismo’s features also do not disappoint. Aside from the typical iDrive multimedia interface, climate control, and other comfort and infotainment features, it also boasts an automatic opening and closing tailgate, and an active rear spoiler, a first for BMW.

Speaking of the 2013 BMW Xpo, they didn’t just launch the 3 Series GT, or entice the buyers to own a BMW through its FlexiLease program. They were also helping the needy and the unprivileged through a partnership with Philippine Red Cross. On behalf of ACC, they will donate P100 for every guest who registered in the event, P1,000 for every test drive, and P10,000 for every vehicle sold during the event. Also, 50% of the proceeds from the sale of BMW Lifestyle items will also be donated. If you weren’t able to go to the event itself, ACC will donate P10 for every like they receive on BMW Philippines’ Facebook Page.