The BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine – which is the long-wheelbase version of the 3 Series sedan – has been launched in India, with prices ranging from Rs 51.50-53.90 lakh (ex-showroom). India is the first right-hand-drive market to get the long-wheelbase 3 Series, which was first introduced in China. For those curious, the Gran Limousine will be sold alongside the standard 3 Series as a replacement for the now-discontinued 3 Series Gran Turismo.
- Gran Limousine prices range from Rs 51.50-53.90 lakh
- 110mm longer than the standard 3 Series
- Gets 2.0-litre petrol and diesel engines
BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine dimensions and variants
At first glance, the differences between the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine and the standard 3 Series aren’t apparent because they are almost identical on the outside, but the Gran Limousine has a visibly longer rear door. The Gran Limousine is 110mm longer than the standard 3, with all the added length going into the wheelbase, to help liberate more space for rear-seat passengers.
BMW India is offering the 3 Series Gran Limousine in two variants – Luxury Line (Rs 51.50-52.50 lakh) and a limited-run M Sport 'First Edition' (Rs 53.90 lakh). The M Sport variant looks more aggressive on the outside with a different front bumper and gloss black trim additions. There are four exterior colour options – Carbon Black, Cashmere Silver, Melbourne Red and Mineral White, but while the Luxury Line sports 17-inch V-spoke alloy wheels, the M Sport gets 18-inch twin-spoke alloys.
2021 BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine interior
The 3 Series Gran Limousine mirrors the interior layout of the standard 3 Series, and the only difference comes in the form of new colour schemes. However, the most notable difference is at the back – with the lengthened wheelbase, there’s 43mm more legroom for rear passengers compared to the standard 3 Series, and the seats are better cushioned and bolstered as well.
In terms of equipment, the 3 Series Gran Limousine features list matches that of the standard wheelbase model, and adds a panoramic sunroof. Highlights include LED headlights and tail-lights, ambient lighting, multi-zone climate control, an 8.8-inch touchscreen with BMW’s iDrive infotainment system, a 16-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, to name a few. The 330Li M Sport variant gets a head-up display and gesture control.
2021 BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine engine and gearbox details
The BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine borrows the 258hp, 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine (330Li) and 190hp, 2.0-litre turbo-diesel unit (320Ld) from the standard 3 Series, along with its 8-speed torque convertor automatic gearbox. BMW claims a 0-100kph time of 6.2sec for the petrol and 7.6sec for the diesel.
The 320Ld is only available with the Luxury Line trim, while the 330Li comes in Luxury Line and M Sport form.
2021 BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine price and rivals
At this price, the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine is about Rs 8.9 lakh more expensive than the standard 3 Series. While it is notably pricier than rivals of the standard 3 (Audi A4, Mercedes-Benz C-class, Volvo S60 and Jaguar XE), it’s important to note here that the Gran Limousine is the first long-wheelbase offering in its segment; just like how the current-gen Mercedes-Benz E-class was the first long-wheelbase model in its segment and offered a more luxurious rear seat experience and saw it become a clear favourite in its class. BMW will hope the 3 Series Gran Limousine – with its increased focus on luxury and comfort – is able to pull off something similar.
Do you think the BMW 3 Series Gran Limousine will become a hot favourite in its segment? Let us know in the comments.
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