2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo: Review, Specs & Performance

by Jhon Lennon 56 views

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo, a car that tries to blend the sporty feel of a sedan with the practicality of a hatchback. Is it a hit or a miss? Let's find out!

Overview of the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo

First off, the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo is essentially a stretched and heightened version of the 3 Series sedan. BMW aimed to create something that offers more rear passenger space and cargo capacity while maintaining a sporty driving experience. The Gran Turismo (GT) body style is all about versatility, and this model year brought some subtle but important refinements.

Design and Styling

When you first lay your eyes on the 335i GT, you’ll notice its distinctive silhouette. It's longer and taller than the regular 3 Series, giving it a unique presence on the road. The frameless doors add a touch of elegance, and the hatchback design makes it super practical for loading and unloading cargo. Some might find the styling a bit polarizing, but it definitely stands out from the crowd.

Inside, the 2016 model boasts a premium feel with high-quality materials and a well-laid-out dashboard. The panoramic sunroof enhances the sense of spaciousness, making it a comfortable place to be, whether you're driving or just along for the ride. The iDrive infotainment system is intuitive, though it might take a little getting used to if you're new to BMWs.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 335i GT packs a punch with its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This powerplant delivers a smooth and potent 300 horsepower, making it a joy to drive. The eight-speed automatic transmission is slick and responsive, providing seamless gear changes. Whether you're cruising on the highway or tackling winding roads, the 335i GT offers a refined and engaging driving experience.

The handling is surprisingly good for a car of its size. BMW's engineers have done a great job of tuning the suspension to provide a balance between comfort and sportiness. The steering is precise and well-weighted, giving you confidence behind the wheel. While it might not be as sharp as the 3 Series sedan, the 335i GT still holds its own in the corners.

Key Features and Specifications

Let's dive into the nitty-gritty details of what makes the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo tick. From its engine specs to its interior comforts, there's a lot to appreciate about this unique vehicle.

Engine and Performance Specs

The heart of the 335i GT is its 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This engine delivers 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for both city driving and long road trips. It’s paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that offers smooth and quick shifts.

  • Engine: 3.0-liter Turbocharged Inline-Six
  • Horsepower: 300 hp
  • Torque: 300 lb-ft
  • Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 5.5 seconds
  • Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

Interior and Technology

Inside the 335i GT, you'll find a luxurious and well-equipped cabin. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long drives a breeze. The panoramic sunroof adds a sense of airiness, and the iDrive infotainment system keeps you connected and entertained.

  • Infotainment System: BMW iDrive with Navigation
  • Display: 6.5-inch or 8.8-inch screen (depending on options)
  • Audio System: Premium sound system with multiple speakers
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth, USB, and smartphone integration
  • Comfort: Dual-zone climate control, power-adjustable seats, and leather upholstery

Safety Features

BMW doesn't skimp on safety, and the 2016 335i GT comes with a comprehensive suite of safety features to protect you and your passengers.

  • Airbags: Front, side, and curtain airbags
  • Brakes: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS)
  • Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
  • Traction Control: Dynamic Traction Control (DTC)
  • Optional Features: Lane departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control

Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what it's like to actually drive the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo. This car is designed to offer a blend of sportiness and comfort, so how well does it pull that off?

Comfort and Ride Quality

One of the standout features of the 335i GT is its comfortable ride. The suspension does a great job of absorbing bumps and road imperfections, making it a pleasant car to drive on long journeys. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, adding to the overall comfort.

The increased ride height also contributes to a more relaxed driving experience, giving you a better view of the road ahead. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a cross-country adventure, the 335i GT is a great companion.

Handling and Performance

Despite its size, the 335i GT handles surprisingly well. The steering is precise and responsive, and the car feels planted and stable in corners. While it might not be as nimble as the 3 Series sedan, it's still a fun car to drive on winding roads.

The 3.0-liter turbocharged engine provides plenty of power for overtaking and accelerating. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and quickly, making the most of the engine's power. Whether you're merging onto the highway or passing another car, the 335i GT has you covered.

Practicality and Utility

One of the main reasons to choose the Gran Turismo over the sedan is its increased practicality. The hatchback design makes it easy to load and unload cargo, and the rear seats fold down to create even more space.

  • Cargo Capacity: Approximately 18.4 cubic feet with the rear seats up, and 56.5 cubic feet with the seats down.

This makes the 335i GT a great choice for families or anyone who needs to haul a lot of gear. Whether you're loading up groceries, sports equipment, or luggage for a trip, the 335i GT can handle it with ease.

Pros and Cons of the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo

Every car has its strengths and weaknesses, and the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo is no exception. Let's break down the pros and cons to help you make an informed decision.

Pros

  • Powerful Engine: The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six provides plenty of power and smooth acceleration.
  • Comfortable Ride: The suspension is well-tuned for comfort, making it a great car for long drives.
  • Spacious Interior: The rear seats offer plenty of legroom, and the cargo area is surprisingly large.
  • Hatchback Design: The hatchback makes it easy to load and unload cargo.
  • Luxurious Features: The interior is well-appointed with high-quality materials and advanced technology.

Cons

  • Styling: The Gran Turismo's styling can be polarizing; some people love it, while others don't.
  • Size: The car's larger size can make it more difficult to maneuver in tight spaces.
  • Price: The 335i GT can be more expensive than the 3 Series sedan.
  • Fuel Economy: While not terrible, the fuel economy is not as good as some other cars in its class.

Alternatives to the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo

If you're not completely sold on the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo, there are several other cars that you might want to consider.

BMW 3 Series Sedan

The most obvious alternative is the BMW 3 Series sedan. It offers a similar driving experience but with a more traditional sedan body style. It's also typically less expensive than the Gran Turismo.

Audi A4 Allroad

The Audi A4 Allroad is another wagon-like option that offers plenty of space and practicality. It comes with standard all-wheel drive and a comfortable ride.

Volvo V60

The Volvo V60 is a stylish and practical wagon that offers a comfortable ride and a range of advanced safety features. It's a great choice for families or anyone who values safety and comfort.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon

The Mercedes-Benz C-Class Wagon offers a luxurious interior and a comfortable ride. It's a great choice if you're looking for a premium wagon with plenty of features.

Conclusion: Is the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo Right for You?

So, is the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo a good car? Absolutely! It offers a unique blend of sportiness, comfort, and practicality that's hard to find in other cars. If you're looking for a car that's fun to drive, comfortable on long trips, and capable of hauling a lot of cargo, the 335i GT is definitely worth considering.

However, its polarizing styling and higher price tag might not be for everyone. If you prefer a more traditional sedan or wagon, there are plenty of other options to choose from. But if you're looking for something a little different, the 335i GT is a great choice.

Ultimately, the best way to decide if the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo is right for you is to take it for a test drive and see for yourself. Happy driving, guys!