BMW has officially teased the next generation of its 3 Series Touring (wagon), confirming that the company remains committed to this increasingly rare body style. The announcement came alongside details of the upcoming i3 crossover, signaling a broader effort by BMW to balance its electric future with traditional preferences.
Electric and Combustion Options Still in Play
While the i3 wagon is confirmed, it remains uncertain whether the new 3 Series Touring will also be offered with conventional combustion engines. BMW plans to launch 40 new models by the end of next year, and the 3 Series Touring is among them. This suggests a continuation of the dual powertrain strategy seen in other models – offering both electric and gas-powered options.
A Nod to Practicality, But With Potential Trade-Offs
Teaser images reveal low-profile roof bars, suggesting a sleek design. However, there’s concern that the next generation may lose a practical feature currently found in the outgoing model: the ability to open the rear window independently of the tailgate. The larger 5 Series Touring already eliminated this feature, and it’s unclear if the 3 Series will follow suit. This decision highlights a trend toward streamlining designs, potentially at the cost of convenience.
Why This Matters: Wagons in a SUV World
The survival of the 3 Series Touring is significant because wagons are rapidly disappearing from the automotive market. SUVs now dominate consumer preferences, but BMW’s commitment to the Touring demonstrates a willingness to cater to niche tastes. The company recognizes that some buyers still prioritize the cargo space and driving dynamics of a wagon over the higher ride height of an SUV.
US Market Uncertain
BMW hasn’t confirmed whether the next-gen 3 Series Touring will be sold in the United States, where wagons have struggled to gain traction. The M5 wagon is available, but at a $130,000 price point, it’s inaccessible to most buyers. A more affordable 3 Series Touring could fill a gap in the North American market, offering a practical alternative to the SUV craze.
Beyond the Touring: Possible Coupe Expansion
BMW may also be planning a fourth body style alongside crossovers, sedans, and wagons. A coupe-styled iX4 crossover was accidentally listed on the company’s U.S. website for the 2027 model year. This suggests BMW is considering expanding its lineup further, potentially replacing the X4 with an electric alternative. The fate of two-door cars like the 4 Series remains unclear, but BMW seems intent on maintaining some level of variety beyond the growing SUV segment.
The continuation of the 3 Series Touring signals that BMW isn’t abandoning traditional body styles entirely. Preserving this option is a win for enthusiasts, and it demonstrates that even in an SUV-dominated world, there’s still a place for the versatile and practical wagon.
