Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo (GT), a car that blends practicality with the sporty DNA we've come to expect from BMW. If you're wondering what this car is all about, you've come to the right place. We'll cover everything from its engine specs to its interior features and overall driving experience. Let's get started!

Overview of the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo

The 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo is essentially a stretched and heightened version of the 3 Series sedan, offering more passenger and cargo space. It's designed for those who want the sportiness of a BMW but need the versatility of a hatchback. Think of it as a Swiss Army knife on wheels – ready for almost anything.

Key Features:

• Engine: A powerful 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine.
• Space: Ample rear legroom and a sizable cargo area.
• Styling: A distinctive, coupe-like roofline with a practical hatchback design.
• Tech: BMW's latest infotainment and driver assistance systems.

Engine and Performance Specs

When it comes to performance, the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo doesn't disappoint. The heart of this beast is a 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged engine, which is a gem in BMW's lineup. This engine delivers a smooth and potent power band, making it a joy to drive in various conditions. It’s not just about raw power; it’s about how that power is delivered – refined and responsive.

Engine Details:

• Type: 3.0-liter inline-6 turbocharged
• Horsepower: 320 hp
• Torque: 330 lb-ft
• Transmission: 8-speed automatic (with manual shift mode)
• Drivetrain: Available in rear-wheel drive (RWD) or xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD)

Performance Numbers:

• 0-60 mph: Approximately 4.8 to 5.1 seconds (depending on RWD or AWD)
• Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

The engine's 320 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque provide brisk acceleration and plenty of passing power. The 8-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, offering quick shifts in automatic mode and precise control when using the manual shift mode. Whether you're cruising on the highway or tackling twisty roads, the 340i GT feels confident and composed.

For those living in areas with inclement weather, the xDrive all-wheel-drive system adds an extra layer of confidence and traction. It helps the car maintain grip in slippery conditions, making it a practical choice for year-round driving. The combination of the powerful engine and sophisticated drivetrain makes the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo a well-rounded performer.

Interior and Features

Stepping inside the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo, you're greeted with a blend of luxury and functionality. The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials, comfortable seating, and a user-friendly layout. It's designed to make both the driver and passengers feel at ease, whether you're embarking on a long road trip or just running errands around town.

Key Interior Features:

• Seating: Comfortable and supportive seats with available leather upholstery.
• Space: Ample rear legroom, thanks to the extended wheelbase.
• Infotainment: BMW's iDrive system with a central display screen, navigation, and smartphone integration.
• Technology: Available features like a head-up display, Harman Kardon sound system, and driver assistance systems.

Interior Design and Comfort:

The interior design is typical of BMW, with a focus on clean lines and intuitive controls. The dashboard is well-organized, with all the essential functions easily accessible. The seats are designed to provide excellent support, even on long journeys. The available leather upholstery adds a touch of luxury, while the overall fit and finish are top-notch.

One of the standout features of the 340i Gran Turismo is the generous rear legroom. Thanks to the extended wheelbase, rear passengers have plenty of space to stretch out and relax. This makes it an ideal choice for families or anyone who frequently carries passengers in the back.

Infotainment and Technology:

The 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo comes equipped with BMW's iDrive infotainment system, which includes a central display screen, navigation, and smartphone integration. The iDrive system is relatively easy to use, with a rotary controller and buttons for navigating the various menus and functions. The system also supports Apple CarPlay, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your iPhone with the car's infotainment system.

Available technology features include a head-up display, which projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road. The Harman Kardon sound system delivers crisp and clear audio quality, making it a pleasure to listen to your favorite music while driving.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The exterior design of the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo is distinctive and sets it apart from the traditional 3 Series sedan. The GT features a coupe-like roofline, a raised ride height, and a practical hatchback design. It's a car that combines style with functionality, offering a unique blend of form and function.

Key Exterior Features:

• Roofline: A sloping, coupe-like roofline that gives the car a sleek and sporty appearance.
• Hatchback: A practical hatchback design that provides easy access to the cargo area.
• Ride Height: A slightly raised ride height that gives the car a more commanding presence on the road.
• Styling: BMW's signature kidney grille, headlights, and taillights.

Dimensions:

• Length: Approximately 190 inches
• Width: Approximately 72 inches
• Height: Approximately 59 inches
• Wheelbase: Approximately 115 inches

The sloping roofline gives the 340i Gran Turismo a sleek and sporty appearance, while the raised ride height adds to its presence on the road. The hatchback design is not only stylish but also practical, providing easy access to the cargo area. The car's dimensions make it larger than the standard 3 Series sedan, offering more interior space and cargo capacity.

Styling Cues:

The front of the car features BMW's signature kidney grille and headlights, giving it a familiar and recognizable appearance. The taillights are also distinctively BMW, with a sleek and modern design. The overall styling is well-executed, creating a car that is both stylish and functional.

Driving Experience

The 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo offers a driving experience that is both engaging and comfortable. It strikes a good balance between sporty handling and a smooth ride, making it a pleasure to drive in various conditions. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the 340i GT delivers a rewarding driving experience.

Handling and Ride Quality:

The 340i Gran Turismo handles well, with precise steering and minimal body roll. The suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable ride, even on rough roads. The car feels stable and composed, inspiring confidence behind the wheel. It's not as sporty as the standard 3 Series sedan, but it still offers a fun and engaging driving experience.

Steering and Braking:

The steering is precise and responsive, providing good feedback from the road. The brakes are strong and provide plenty of stopping power. The combination of the well-tuned suspension, precise steering, and powerful brakes makes the 340i Gran Turismo a joy to drive on twisty roads.

Overall Driving Impression:

Overall, the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo offers a well-rounded driving experience. It's comfortable, composed, and engaging, making it a great choice for those who want a car that can do it all. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands around town, or embarking on a long road trip, the 340i GT delivers a rewarding driving experience.

Pros and Cons

To give you a balanced view, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo.

Pros:

• Powerful Engine: The 3.0-liter inline-6 turbo engine provides ample power and smooth acceleration.
• Spacious Interior: The extended wheelbase offers generous rear legroom.
• Practical Hatchback Design: The hatchback provides easy access to a sizable cargo area.
• Available All-Wheel Drive: The xDrive system enhances traction and stability in various weather conditions.
• Luxurious Features: High-quality materials and advanced technology features enhance the overall driving experience.

Cons:

• Styling: The Gran Turismo's styling may not appeal to everyone.
• Price: The 340i GT can be more expensive than the standard 3 Series sedan.
• Handling: While competent, the handling is not as sharp as the standard 3 Series.

Final Verdict

The 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo is a unique and versatile car that offers a compelling blend of sportiness and practicality. It's a great choice for those who want the performance of a BMW but need the extra space and versatility of a hatchback. While its styling may not be for everyone, its powerful engine, spacious interior, and available all-wheel drive make it a well-rounded package.

If you're in the market for a car that can do it all, the 2017 BMW 340i Gran Turismo is definitely worth considering. It's a car that combines the best of both worlds, offering a rewarding driving experience and plenty of practicality.