The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) 335i xDrive Steptronic was a five-door grand tourer produced by BMW from 2014 to 2016. Positioned as a more spacious and practical alternative to the standard 3 Series sedan and wagon, the Gran Turismo aimed to blend the driving dynamics expected of a BMW with increased passenger and cargo volume. The 335i variant, equipped with the N55 inline-six engine and xDrive all-wheel drive, represented a performance-oriented trim within the Gran Turismo lineup, offering a balance between power, comfort, and all-weather capability. It sat above the 328i models and below the range-topping 335d diesel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) |
| Type (Engine) | 335i (306 Hp) xDrive Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2014 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Grand Tourer |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 11.6 l/100 km (20.3 US mpg, 24.4 UK mpg, 8.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 187 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.6 kg/Hp, 178.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 233.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 306 Hp @ 5800-6400 rpm |
| Power per litre | 102.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1200-5000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1200-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | N55B30 |
| Engine displacement | 2979 cm3 (181.79 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 89.6 mm (3.53 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2285 kg (5037.56 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1600 l (56.5 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4824 mm (189.92 in.) |
| Width | 1828 mm (71.97 in.) |
| Height | 1508 mm (59.37 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2920 mm (114.96 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1586 mm (62.44 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.30 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 12.3 m (40.35 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 225/55 R17 97W |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the 335i Gran Turismo was BMW’s N55B30 engine, a 3.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. This engine was a mainstay of BMW’s lineup for several years, known for its smooth power delivery and responsiveness. The N55 featured direct fuel injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger, and variable valve timing (VANOS) and valve lift (Valvetronic) systems. These technologies worked in concert to optimize both performance and fuel efficiency. The engine produced 306 horsepower at 5800-6400 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1200-5000 rpm. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout contributed to the car’s balanced handling characteristics.
Power was transmitted to all four wheels via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed Steptronic automatic transmission. The Steptronic transmission offered both fully automatic operation and manual gear selection via steering wheel-mounted paddles. The transmission’s eight forward gears helped to keep the engine operating in its optimal power band, contributing to both performance and fuel economy. The xDrive system intelligently distributed torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 335i Gran Turismo offered a refined and capable driving experience. The combination of the powerful N55 engine, the eight-speed automatic transmission, and the xDrive all-wheel-drive system resulted in brisk acceleration – 0 to 60 mph in around 5 seconds. While not as overtly sporty as some of BMW’s other models, the Gran Turismo provided ample power for both highway cruising and spirited driving. The automatic transmission shifted smoothly and responsively, and the xDrive system provided confident grip in all weather conditions. Compared to the 328i Gran Turismo, the 335i offered a noticeable increase in power and acceleration. However, it wasn’t as focused on outright performance as some of BMW’s rear-wheel-drive models.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 335i Gran Turismo came standard with a comprehensive list of features, including leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats, a premium sound system, and a navigation system. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded leather trim, and a head-up display. The Gran Turismo’s interior was designed to be both comfortable and functional, with ample space for passengers and cargo. The rear seats could be folded down to create a larger cargo area, increasing the car’s versatility.
Chassis & Braking
The 335i Gran Turismo featured a sophisticated chassis design, with independent suspension at all four wheels. The front suspension utilized coil springs and struts, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup. This configuration provided a comfortable ride while maintaining good handling characteristics. The car was equipped with ventilated disc brakes at all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and stability control systems further enhanced safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo, including the 335i variant, received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. Reviewers praised the car’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and refined driving experience. However, some critics noted that the Gran Turismo wasn’t as sporty as some of BMW’s other models. Compared to the 328i Gran Turismo, the 335i offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 335d diesel variant offered even greater fuel economy, but with a different driving character.
Legacy
The BMW 3 Series Gran Turismo (F34) was discontinued after a relatively short production run. While it didn’t achieve the same level of popularity as the standard 3 Series sedan or wagon, it remains a well-regarded vehicle among BMW enthusiasts. The N55 engine is known for its reliability, although regular maintenance is essential. The Steptronic transmission is also generally reliable, but some owners have reported issues with the transmission’s mechatronic unit. Today, used 335i Gran Turismo models offer a compelling combination of performance, comfort, and practicality, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a versatile and refined grand tourer.
