Tuesday 5th March 2013

Geneva Motor Show 2013: BMW

The 3GT is unveiled, and the world grimaces collectively

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So, here it is, then. We knew it was coming, and it’s finally here. BMW’s 3 GT has been officially unveiled to a public waiting for it with something less than bated breath. Sadly, the motor show lights have done little to dull the effect of its hunchbacked silhouette.

BMW i8 Spyder is nearing production

Fortunately, while the 3GT is BMW’s biggest news at Geneva, it isn’t the only thing we’ve got to show you. BMW’s also brought along plenty to keep PHers entertained, including the new i8, which we had the chance to experience firsthand last week. Although still officially a concept, the i8 is almost ready for production now, with only a few last tweaks still to go. It features a 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, mated to a 96kW electric motor; enough to make the i8 good for 62mph in 4.6 seconds; fuel consumption is an astonishing 104mpg, while carbon emissions are just 66g/km.

Of course, there’s also some exciting machinery for those of a less eco-friendly bent; the M6Gran Coupe is here, too, looking as stunning as ever. This might not be its debut, successive appearances have failed to diminish its superb proportions. It isn’t just a pretty face, though: the 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 packs 560hp and 502lb ft, and will steam the M6 to 62mph in 4.2 seconds.

M6 Gran Coupe still looks as good as ever

Finally, we’ve got the 4 Series ‘concept’. This is, as near as makes no difference, the 4 Series that’ll go on sale toward the latter part of this year, and just like the Gran Coupe, it’s already been around for a couple of months. However, for many this’ll be the first chance to see it up close. No word on an M-badged version yet, though.

[Paul M]

Another BMW niche market nobody realised they wanted!

[Paul M]

toppstuff said:

Some people prefer hatchbacks to saloons and don't want an estate.

I am such a person. I'm quite sure there are plenty of us.

And I don't get the collective sheep-like condemnation of the 3 series styling. It looks like a 3 series hatchback. Its a bit late 90's Hyundai in its styling maybe, but its not ugly. Just a bit dull.

And while there are Peugeots on the planet that apparently go relatively uncriticised in the styling department, it seems unfair to single out this car for derision.

It appears that BMW have found their market in your good self and I am sure they will sell more.
Unfortunately this is not the only BMW singled out for derision ...... there are now a growing number of them and I say that as a long term BMW owner and enthusiast.

[Paul M]

Luca Brasi said:

Good God, massive BMW fan but that just makes me sad and angry. Hope it fails.

I think that sums it up.
We BMW enthusiasts bewildered by their current direction that seems hell bent on producing some cars that a few think they want and designs unloved by those that don't.