Station wagons have always been about utility. It has the size and seating arrangements of a midsize car and yet it has a bit of extra in terms of boot space. However, most people think that this type of a car is a bit too boring. However, once in a while, wagons like the 2011 BMW 3 Series Wagon come around and steal the show.
The BMW 3 Series Wagon is part of the 5th generation of BMW 3 series cars. It is one of the 4 body types available for this car. In 2009, it got a set of modifications together with the sedan. The grille, hood, front and rear lights, and trunk were modified to create a new look in 2009. These changes were generally well received.
Performance
The 2011 BMW 3 Series Wagon is available in both rear wheel drive and 4 wheel drive, but only one engine is in the offering. It is the 3.0 inline-6 engine that has peak production of 230 horsepower and 200 lb/ft of torque. It might not sound much power but it is definitely more than enough. This is mated with a 6 speed manual transmission, with 6 speed automatic gearbox optional equipment. Add to that excellent suspension and brakes, plus the confidence inspiring grip of the xDrive 4 wheel drive system, and you’re going to have a blast driving this car. It has excellent safety tools too: it passed a lot of crash ratings with flying colors, and the stability control system simply works amazing.
Exterior & Interior
The 2011 BMW 3 Series Wagon has all the tools that made the 3 series line such a big hit through the years. It is a versatile car that managed to combine 3 coveted characteristics: luxury, performance, and practicality. The exterior is typical BMW: sleek and stylish yet still opinions about its looks are divided. It’s one of those cars that function defined its form. Even better, the perceived weaknesses of the styling were now mostly corrected. Inside the car, you are bound to find the typical BMW style of ergonomics.
The materials used in the vehicle: the leather, the wood trim, the analog gauges, everything gives the car a classy and elegant feel while looking every bit as durable. And it has space that only a wagon can provide: it has up to 60 cubic feet of luggage space to throw in with the typical BMW 3 series experience.
Pros & Cons
There are a host of strong points for the 2011 BMW 3 Series Wagon. The best traits that it has are something it shares with the entire 3 series line: the fun-to-drive factor. It has incredible performance potential, with sharp handling that makes you forget that you are driving a wagon and a motor that can push it on to any occasion. Also, the interior is exceptionally built. It is built cozy while being still performance oriented. And really, you can’t argue with its safety features. It is a true 3 Series car, with the additional boot room of a wagon.
However, the same problems that plagued this generation of the 3 Series carried over to the wagon. First on the list is the cramped rear passenger area. It remained unsolved and continues to be a nightmare for full sized people. Also, the suspension, while fine tuned for cornering at high speeds, may be found too harsh by some for daily driving.
The BMW 3 Series Sports Wagon just might be the best in the business in its class. And it’s for a good reason. It has managed to combine performance with drivability. It is a precision built machine, and it’s worth every cent of the price to own it. Its closest competitors include the Cadillac CTS Wagon (MSRP $38,465; 18 city / 27 hwy) and the Audi Avant A4 Quattro (MSRP $36,300; 21 city / 27 hwy).
Overall Rating
70 out of 100
What others say:
Unmatched ride/handling balance, smooth and powerful engines, reasonably fuel-efficient, upscale cabin, four body styles, elegant hardtop convertible design, available diesel engine.Edmunds
Specifications
| Vehicle Type: Wagon | Base Price: $37,150.00 |
| Fuel Tank Capacity: 16.1 gallons (60 liters) | Miles Per Gallon: 18 city / 27 hwy |
| Length: 178.6 in. (453 cm) | Width: 71.5 in. (182 cm) |
| Height: 55.8 in. (147 cm) | Curb Weight: 3527 lbs (1600 kg) |
| Wheel Base: 108.7 in. (276 cm) | Ground Clearance: NA |
| Luggage Capacity: 60.9 cu ft | Maximum Seating: 5 people |
| Engine: 3.0L DOHC 24-valve inline-6 | Displacement: NA cc |
| Horsepower: 230 HP | Max RPM: 6500 RPM |
| Torque: 200 lb-ft @ 2750 rpm | Transmission: 6-Speed Manual |
| 0-60 mph: 6.5 seconds | Top Speed: 130 MPH |
| Option:328i xDrive | MSRP: $39,150; MPG: 17 city / 26 hwy |
