SPIED! BMW F34 3er GT: Spy Pics - Renders - Info

Discussion in '3 Series' started by south, Mar 24, 2011.

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  1. Beemer B773ER Well-Known Member

    Well, even though the ballooning shape of the car isn't to your tastes, I still believe you can view the thinking behind its existence from a neutral standpoint. :)

    Being a fairly new member to the US population, I have instantly noticed a certain ingrained mentality here with regards to motor vehicles. From a cultural standpoint I feel USA and Australia are fairly similar, but in the motoring world there are some very noticeable differences. The fact that pick-up sales trump staple family-sedans such as the Camry quickly lets you know that something's different around here. Also, the lack of love for hatches is somewhat perplexing, especially considering the likes of the Corolla/Mazda3 are top-sellers in Australia (I guess size matters over here!). Sure there are some examples of vehicles that have challenged the norm and been relatively successful, but for the most part I feel the US market isn't all that willing to embrace new, dynamic vehicles. The A7's selling well, but at what cost to A6/A8 sales, the CLS is a niche seller as is the BMW X6. I guess the reason why the 5GT has been given the cold shoulder over here is due to the SUV-happy buyer mindset here. Even though I listed why I feel the 5GT exists, it just doesn't seem to matter over here when you can buy an X5 that can be a jack-of-all-trades sort of car. It's weird because the 5GT is a statement of individuality and uniqueness..and by golly is the US all about that..but when it comes to cars people tend to go for traditional options.

    The 5GT has enjoyed more success in Europe and China where car-buyer culture seems to be more liberal and individualistic.

    Who knows...maybe the 5GT's just priced too high here, or not properly explained/marketed to buyers.... or maybe people only look skin-deep and focus on its design. Who knows, but I certainly don't buy the "well I'd buy the 5er Touring IF it was available here" excuse because the love for SUV's is simply too great in the US market.
  2. Deckhook Well-Known Member

    I suppose I also fall into the 'SUV over Estate' because it's more a jack of all trades. Logic of economy and handling should dictate the estate is the better buy and allrounder if used exclusively on the road but yet an SUV sits on my driveway.

    My problem with the 5GT is on a number of levels.

    A: Looks : this is subjective but I think we can all agree it's not universally liked.

    B: Space : it's roomier than a 5 but if you really needed more then the 7 is still the better option.

    C: Boot space : if you need more than the 5 then an estate is the better option once again.

    D: Higher driving position : having driven one the difference feels slightly higher than a regular 5 but it's not as commanding as a proper SUV.

    I just don't see the point in it, if it had looked exciting and well as being unique then I might be able to forgive some of the other issues but sadly it's ugly and unique which isn't enough to make it a reasoning alternative to me.

    One niche too far in my opinion.
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  3. K-A Banned

    Although American's don't like Wagon's or Hatchback's (I tend to agree as I don't find them attractive for the vast most part), I think the 5 GT's unpopularity is similar to that of the Pontiac Aztec, in the sense that it has become much of a joke when people want to use a phrase to define "ugly as sh*t". :D

    The F10 Wagon, on the other hand, is a beautiful, clean, and not so offensive Wagon. Much better choice for the image conscious buyer who wants a Wagon.
  4. Michael Well-Known Member

    While I understand what some have said in favor of a GT 3er, I don't find the theme convincing enough for BMW to push a car like this out. While it is still all in camo, you have a rough idea of the overall shape and it is practically the same as the 5 er GT. It makes no sense, why? Who is going to buy this car? I read the reasons stated by Beemer, and while logical and sound, are they really that strong enough? Is there really a market for this car?

    Perhaps I am still stuck with the old setup that MB, Audi, and BMW had. I'd argue the same for the A7. What is the point of that car? Attractive? Not really for me, but I am sure some love it but there is an A6 and an A8. Why an in-between of some..sport coupe. I digress. Going back to the 3 er GT, I just don't see why BMW would even waste the time. Granted, they have the marketing and strategic planning teams in place, so they may know something I don't. I just don't think this car will look anything close to that semi-covered pro type in red.
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  5. klier Member

    Damn, so pathetic.
    Actually taking the time to troll again I see. Makes sense when the mods don't ever step in.

    Also, in before "but I'm free to express my opinion here" reply. Don't bother.
  6. K-A Banned

    Ahh, you're such a Fanboy, you'll defend the "German Aztek". You really outdid yourself. ;)

    Poor you, the corporate brand you have nothing to do with, nor have any input in creations of, gets dissed, life must be so hard. :(
  7. EnI Contributing Member

  8. K-A Banned

    Some of the Comments in that Thread are hilarious. :D
  9. Deckhook Well-Known Member

  10. Beemer B773ER Well-Known Member

  11. mini_cooper4 Well-Known Member

    I don't see almost any 5GTs on our streets. And if you have a 5GT in stock you should shave like 30% of the price to sell that car. It's a car you are waiting someone to order... and waiting and waiting :D So I guess the 3GT will be a real success :D
  12. -=Hot|Ice=- Well-Known Member

  13. EnI Contributing Member

  14. Beemer B773ER Well-Known Member

    Oh yeah! This thing's cooler than you think!

    [IMG]
  15. SCOTT27 Contributing Member

    It is definitely function over form as the GT will feature some of BMW's powerful engine choices in both Petrol and diesel. Making it a very fast car.
    No M. However. You need to anticipate the forthcoming M4 : 0 Gran Coupe. for that choice. As well as the M3 Sedan.

    Expect more soon...
    • Like Like x 2
  16. -=Hot|Ice=- Well-Known Member

    The M4 needs something like that! This retractable rear wing is a BMW first, no?
  17. -=Hot|Ice=- Well-Known Member


    M3 and M4 get retractable rear wings? SWEET!
  18. Betty Swollocks Well-Known Member

    Scott didn't say that at all.
  19. EnI Contributing Member

    Exactly. He just said there would be no M3 GT, but we could expect M4 GranCoupe instead. :)


    Regarding the rear wing on 3er GT: it's needed due the aerodynamics.

    Check the 5er GT - although its tail is also short (although not that much like on 3er GT!) it's also higher, and that already acts like a wing: for a proper downforce on rear axle @ high speeds. Same case on X6 - with even higher tail.

    While 3er GT has much lower rear - and to keep it low, which helps the aesthetics & proportions of the car - they didn't incorporate a functional "wing" ("duck tail") into the hatch door design (as most evident on eg. X6), but opted for a retractable wing. It's basically the same solution as used on MINI coupe / roadster.

    As Scott has said: it's functional. And it helps the car to look better: much more sporty & dynamic than 5er GT! Although it's still a crossover: with roomy cabin & semi-commanding sitting position.

    Btw, semi-commanding sitting position is very popular among older population - especially in Europe. Since it offers the most most natural & easiest position & entry - for many sedans are too low, and SUVs are too high to climb in / sit in. Therefore crossovers / MPVs / small SUVs with semi-commanding sitting position are becoming more & more popular within this population. So BMW tries to offer something different in this segment.
    • Like Like x 2
  20. Levi68 Well-Known Member

    I am sure the M4 will get it.
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