THE second model variant of the BMW 3 Series range - the Touring - will go on sale in the UK on September 17, 2005. Media and public acclaim for the recently launched 3 Series Saloon, a car widely reckoned to have set a new benchmark in the compact executive market, bodes well for the fourth generation of 3 Series Touring.

The new 3 Series Touring offers greater practicality, improved performance, superb handling and a poised ride. It is also more comfortable, roomier and is even more parsimonious at the pumps than the outgoing model.

Comfort and practicality: Internally and externally the new 3 Series Touring is larger than its predecessor. Measuring 4,520mm in length (+42mm), 1,817mm in width (+78mm), 1,418mm in height (+9mm) and with an extended wheelbase of 2,760mm (+35mm), both front and rear occupants enjoy increased space and comfort. The practicality of the Touring model is also improved with the new model offering 460 litres with the rear seats in place and 1385 litres with the 60:40 split seats folded. This represents a 25 and 40-litre increase over its predecessor respectively.

Numerous practical features in the boot ensure that ny load can be transported with ease and in total safety. Like its predecessor, the new Touring features a split opening tailgate so that small items can be loaded easily through the window. When either the rear window or the complete tailgate are opened, the luggage compartment cover automatically moves upwards to offer easy access to the contents, while a useful under-floor storage box ensures that items can be transported safely and securely. In addition, a watertight folding box beneath the boot floor provides storage for dirty items, such as muddy boots, without damaging other contents or the carpeting.

The new BMW 325I and 330I Touring models benefit from the new magnesium-alloy engine first introduced on the 630I Coupe and Convertible and recently seen in the 330I Saloon variant. Using innovative and lightweight materials in the construction of the crankcase, crankshaft bearings and cylinder head cover makes it the lightest volume production six-cylinder engine in the world. All engine variants are mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard or a six-speed automatic as an option.

Although the new Touring model was developed completely separately from its Saloon counterpart, it is identical from the nose to the A-pillar. From here, the roofline tapers gently to the boot lid lip spoiler without having any detrimental effect on rear seat headroom. In turn, the distinctive shoulder line moves upwards slightly to the rear, reducing the size of the glasshouse and benefiting aerodynamic efficiency.