BMW 330i GT Road Test Review

 Moving over to the side, a neatly chiseled shoulder line ensures the drama continues seamless from front to back. Adding a little more flavour are frameless windows on all four passenger doors. The side profile is further enhanced with 18 inch alloys which add grace and beauty to the charisma this 3 Series GT has going for it. The rear end is as exciting as the front. Crisp LED tail lamps complement an already dynamic design formed by the large tailgate which gradually slopes down into a flat end. The rear sports an active aerodynamic system which gets a spoiler that automatically extends at higher speeds to create more down force. The new 3 Series GT is beauty personified. It is elegant and graceful with striking lines adding flair to a very uncommon design.

Interior Design and Features of the new BMW 330i GT

The story on the inside is much like the outside with exquisite materials adorning every corner of the cabin. This new model sees an updated Centre Information Display. The screen looks slimmer and longer making for a more elegant addition. The dash gets a contemporary design and is definitely up market. BMW has ensured the cabin of this 3 Series delivers a ritzy feel to occupants. The leather upholstery, chrome accents, piano black finish and a host of finely crafted instrumentation boast of the grandeur this saloon has to offer.

The cabin has been made extremely spacious and the seating optimised for maximum comfort. The driver and passenger seat offer adequate bolstering and support with a power adjustment function and an additional memory function for the driver side seat. BMW has also included a 2-zone climate control setup with rear air conditioning vents, panoramic sunroof, automatic start/stop with keyless entry, remote operated tailgate, ambient lighting, multiple connectivity options and a host of functions to improve the comfort and convenience of daily users. There are ample of cubby holes and storage spaces which have been thoughtfully integrated all around this cabin.

Engine and Performance of the new BMW 330i GT

While the 3 Series GT has the looks, her heart is what brings the real thrill of the ride out. Powering this saloon is a 2.0L, 4 cylinder, turbocharged, petrol engine. The motor is good for 252 horses coming in at 5200rpm. The peak torque figure stands at 350Nm which ranges from 1450rpm and going up all the way to 4800rpm. 'Brutal' is the only word that can really characterise the acceleration of the 330i GT. It clocks a 0-100kmph time of 6.1 seconds and can achieve a top speed of 250kmph. Right from the word go the 330i GT is quick and the massive torque ensures an extremely potent ride.

The engine has been mated to an 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic transmission. The transmission is smooth and ensures a seamless power delivery. BMW has also added different drive modes to suit different driving moods. On offer are Comfort, Ecopro, Sport and Sport + driving modes. The suspension leans toward the softer side and this saloon can glide gracefully over most bad roads leaving the occupants quite unperturbed. Graceful in its mannerisms, the BMW 330i GT is a treat to drive on open stretches of highway and through winding country roads. It is well mannered and has been loaded with just right driver aides to ensure a pleasant journey. The 330i GT gets ABS, Corner Braking Control, Dynamic Stability Control, Dynamic Traction Control, tyre pressure indicator and runflat tires with reinforced sidewalls. All of these features and a lot other safety elements go a long way in ensuring safety of the occupants. Even if you have the desire to push her through some tight corners and power down on an exit you can do so confidently with the multiple driver aides kicking in at just the right time.    

Verdict

The 330i GT from BMW has been tuned to deliver a very sporty and spirited drive. It gets just the right amount of comfort and convenience features to ensure it stays at par with competitors. However, the design and premium appeal of this 3 Series that puts it ahead of competition. It is being offered for Rs. 47,50,000 (ex-showroom Delhi) which is a tad bit pricey but what you get in exchange is a rapid and ritzy ride that will certainly set you apart from the rest.