BMW 3 Series Touring VS VW Golf Variant

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In the competitive segment of compact estate cars, the BMW 3er Touring and VW Golf Variant stand out for their blend of practicality and performance. While the 3er Touring offers a more dynamic driving experience with its sportier handling and luxurious interior, the Golf Variant impresses with its versatility and value, making it a favorite among families. Ultimately, choosing between these two excellent options will depend on whether you prioritize driving enjoyment or everyday usability.

BMW 3 Series Touring

The BMW 3 Series Touring combines dynamic performance with practical versatility, making it an ideal choice for both spirited drives and everyday use. Its elegant design is complemented by a spacious interior, offering ample room for passengers and luggage alike. Cutting-edge technology enhances the driving experience, ensuring comfort and convenience on every journey.

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VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant represents a seamless blend of practicality and style, catering to drivers who require extra space without compromising on aesthetics. Its refined design and spacious interior make it an ideal choice for families and individuals with an active lifestyle. With advanced technology and a smooth driving experience, this estate car continues to impress within its class.

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An In-Depth Comparison: BMW 3er Touring vs VW Golf Variant

When it comes to the versatile and practical world of wagons, two iconic contenders stand out: the BMW 3er Touring and the VW Golf Variant. Both of these vehicles offer a unique blend of style, performance, and innovation, appealing to drivers seeking functionality without sacrificing flair. In this article, we delve into an insightful comparison, examining technical specifications, innovations, and overall appeal of these two remarkable models.

Design and Dimensions

The BMW 3er Touring measures between 4713 mm and 4801 mm in length, with a width of 1827 mm to 1903 mm and a height ranging from 1440 mm to 1448 mm. Its sporty yet elegant aesthetics signify the brand's commitment to luxury and driving pleasure. In contrast, the VW Golf Variant is slightly shorter at 4631 mm, with a width of 1789 mm and a taller stature of 1487 mm. Both cars feature sleek profiles, but the 3er Touring leans more towards a performance-oriented aesthetic, while the Golf Variant incorporates classic functionality combined with modern design elements.

Powertrains: An Array of Options

The engine lineup for the BMW 3er Touring is robust, offering petrol, diesel, and hybrid options, including a Plugin Hybrid variant. The power output ranges from a dependable 150 HP to a thrilling 530 HP, allowing for exhilarating acceleration times as low as 3.6 seconds for the high-performance version. Notably, it features MHEV technology in several models, promoting better efficiency without compromising power.

On the other hand, the VW Golf Variant presents a more streamlined engine selection, primarily offering petrol and diesel options, with a maximum output of 333 HP. The acceleration capabilities range from 4.8 seconds up to 10.5 seconds depending on the engine choice. This makes the Golf a tad slower but still capable, especially for daily commuting and family trips.

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers. The BMW 3er Touring exhibits impressive figures, with consumption ranging from 5.1 L/100km to as high as 10.4 L/100km for the more potent versions. Meanwhile, the Golf Variant showcases competitive efficiency with figures between 4.4 L/100km and 8.5 L/100km, reinforcing its image as an economical choice.

Both vehicles also place a strong emphasis on lowering CO2 emissions. The BMW models range from 135 g/km to 182 g/km, while the Golf Variant demonstrates a slightly better performance with figures as low as 115 g/km, making it an attractive option for environmentally-conscious drivers.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, both cars are designed to provide comfort and convenience. The BMW 3er Touring seats five and boasts a plush interior with premium materials and advanced technology integration, including a premium infotainment system with a focus on driver engagement for a dynamic experience. The spacious trunk capacity of 500 L adds a practical touch for families and adventurers alike.

In comparison, the VW Golf Variant also accommodates five passengers comfortably, with a larger trunk capacity of 611 L. The ergonomic layout emphasizes practicality, featuring intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. Both vehicles offer a wealth of technological innovations, such as driver assistance systems, adaptive cruise control, and advanced connectivity options.

Driving Dynamics

BMW is renowned for its driving dynamics, and the 3er Touring does not disappoint. With options for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the car delivers an engaging driving experience characterized by responsive handling and agility on the road. The 3er Touring can reach top speeds of up to 250 km/h, appealing to performance enthusiasts.

Conversely, the VW Golf Variant, equipped with front-wheel drive capabilities, offers reliable handling and comfort, although it may not deliver the same adrenaline-inducing performance as its BMW counterpart. The Golf Variant still provides a smooth driving experience that suits a wider range of driving conditions, making it a reliable choice for daily use.

Conclusion: Which Wagon Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the BMW 3er Touring and the VW Golf Variant ultimately depends on what the driver values most. For those prioritizing performance, luxury, and an engaging driving experience, the BMW 3er Touring stands out with its impressive powertrain options and dynamic handling. However, for buyers seeking practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfort at a potentially more accessible price point, the VW Golf Variant delivers an excellent package.

Both vehicles exemplify the best of what the wagon segment offers, each with its strengths and innovations. Whether you lean towards the prestige of BMW or the vibrant practicality of VW, you can't go wrong with either choice on your next adventure.

BMW 3 Series Touring
VW Golf Variant

Costs and Consumption

Price
about 40900 - 91100 £
Price
about 25200 - 48200 £
Consumption L/100km
0.9 - 10.4 L
Consumption L/100km
4.4 - 8.5 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
91 - 96 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.5 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
20 - 235 g/km
co2
115 - 194 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 59 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 50 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1650 - 2025 kg
Curb weight
1369 - 1527 kg
Trunk capacity
410 - 500 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4713 - 4801 mm
Length
4631 mm
Width
1827 - 1903 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1440 - 1448 mm
Height
1487 mm
Payload
430 - 520 kg
Payload
530 - 544 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Automat. Schaltgetriebe (Doppelkupplung), Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 530 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.6 - 8.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
213 - 250 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
250 - 700 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 390 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3
Top speed
213 - 250 km/h
Top speed
202 - 250 km/h

General

Model Year
2024
Model Year
2024
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, C, G
Brand
BMW
Brand
VW

BMW 3 Series Touring

The BMW 3 Series Touring: A Fusion of Performance and Practicality

The BMW 3 Series Touring continues to impress with its blend of dynamic performance, technological innovation, and practical design. This model showcases BMW's commitment to providing luxury vehicles that cater to both driving enthusiasts and families seeking a versatile estate car.

Under the Bonnet: Engine Choices and Efficiency

The 3 Series Touring comes with a range of engine options, catering to various preferences and needs. Offering a selection of diesel mild-hybrid, petrol, petrol mild-hybrid, and plug-in hybrid engines, the model spans from 110 kW (150 PS) to a formidable 390 kW (530 PS). Each engine option is paired with an automatic transmission, emphasising a smooth and efficient driving experience.

Fuel consumption ranges from an impressively economical 0.9 L/100 km in the plug-in hybrid variants to 10.4 L/100 km for the high-performance models, ensuring there is a choice for those seeking efficiency as well as those prioritising performance.

Innovative Hybrid Technology

The integration of mild-hybrid and plug-in hybrid technologies in the BMW 3 Series Touring signifies a step forward in BMW’s commitment to sustainability. The plug-in hybrid models offer an electric range up to 96 km, providing an eco-friendly option for short commutes and city driving. This feature is particularly advantageous for those seeking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on power or range.

Driving Dynamics and Performance

BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system and the rear-wheel-drive option ensure that the 3 Series Touring delivers exceptional handling and driving pleasure, whether you opt for the precision of rear-wheel drive or the added stability of all-wheel drive on less favourable road conditions. Accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in as little as 3.6 seconds in some of the higher-end models, the BMW 3 Series Touring certainly lives up to its sporty heritage.

A Design for Every Occasion

Practicality and elegance are harmoniously combined in the BMW 3 Series Touring. With interior space that remains competitive in the estate class, the vehicle offers between 410 to 500 litres of boot space, supporting a variety of lifestyle needs, from family trips to business excursions.

The design's attention to detail is evident from the modern exterior lines to the refined interior, which is laden with state-of-the-art technology and luxurious finishes. The model is available in various configurations, including M sport packages that enhance its sporty appeal.

High-Tech Interior and Features

Inside, the BMW 3 Series Touring boasts a cockpit centred on driver convenience and connectivity. Advanced features such as the optional BMW Live Cockpit Professional with a fully digital display, along with BMW’s iDrive system, ensure seamless interaction between driver and vehicle.

Safety features are abundant, with the inclusion of innovative assistance systems designed to protect occupants and enhance the driving experience. From lane-keeping assist to adaptive cruise control, every journey is as safe as it is exhilarating.

Conclusion: A Class Leader in Versatility

The BMW 3 Series Touring is a testament to the brand’s ability to combine luxury, performance, and practicality in a single package. Whether you’re drawn to the diesel mild-hybrid for its efficiency or the powerful benzine models for their performance, the 3 Series Touring offers something for everyone, echoing BMW’s commitment to providing premium vehicles that cater to diverse needs.

VW Golf Variant

The Versatile Allure of the VW Golf Variant

The VW Golf Variant continues to solidify its place in the automotive world as a resourceful and reliable estate car, sweeping across European roads with its sleek design and robust engineering. In the 2024 model year, VW introduces a range of technical enhancements and innovative features that elevate this standard bearer of practicality and performance.

Powertrains: Efficiency Meets Performance

Under the bonnet, the VW Golf Variant offers an impressive variety of powertrains designed to satisfy varying needs and driving conditions. From the refined 1.5 TSI petrol engines, available in manual and dual-clutch automatic transmission options, to the fuel-sipping 2.0 TDI diesel variants, the Golf Variant aims to strike a balance between performance and economy. Petrol mild-hybrid configurations further enhance efficiency, offering a smart blend of power delivery and reduced CO2 emissions.

Engine Specifications and Fuel Consumption

The power range spans from 116 PS in the entry-level models up to a robust 333 PS in the Volkswagen Golf Variant R, catering to those with a craving for speed and agility. Fuel consumption varies according to engine choice, starting as low as 4.4 L/100km for the efficient diesel models. Such performance is complemented with low CO2 emissions, aligning the vehicle with modern environmental standards.

Innovative Features and Technology

VW’s iconic estate car thrives on technology-driven advancements. With seamless integration of an advanced infotainment system and digital cockpit, driving becomes both intuitive and enjoyable. The variety of safety features, such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist, ensure confidence behind the wheel. Embracing a future-forward approach, the mild-hybrid variants introduce energy recuperation systems that optimise fuel usage, showcasing VW's commitment to sustainability.

Interior Comfort and Practicality

The VW Golf Variant is synonymous with comfort and spaciousness. With a commodious boot space of 611 litres, it accommodates families and professionals alike, making it an ideal choice for long journeys and everyday errands. High-quality materials adorn the interior, providing drivers and passengers with a sophisticated and comfortable environment.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Driving enthusiasts will appreciate the Variant’s dynamic handling, facilitated by an array of engine choices and drivetrain configurations. Whether it's the front-wheel-drive versions that offer exceptional maneuverability or the 4MOTION all-wheel-drive option in the R variant providing enhanced traction, the Golf Variant promises an engaging driving experience.

Conclusion: A Staple for Modern Motoring

The 2024 VW Golf Variant stands as a testament to VW's legacy of developing cars that combine practicality, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Whether it is serving as a family car or a dynamic commuter, its various configurations ensure that it remains a formidable choice for a wide array of drivers.