BMW 3 Series Touring 2019 revealed

BMW has uncovered the big-booted Touring version of the seventh-generation 3 Series mid-sizer, which is scheduled to hit Australian showrooms in October this year.

The new Touring will be the first 3 Series wagon available with the 330e plug-in hybrid powertrain.

While the sedan body style, launched locally in March, will eventually be available with five powertrains – 320i, 320d, 330i, M340i and 330e – it is expected the Australian line-up for the Touring will mirror the current two-engine (320i and 330i) range.

Of note however, the new Touring will be the first 3 Series wagon available with the 185kW/420Nm 330e plug-in hybrid powertrain, though whether the electrified version is brought Down Under is still to be confirmed.

European customers will have a choice of three petrol and three diesel engines, mirroring the international sedan line-up.

The Touring stretches 76mm longer than its predecessor at 4709mm.

Sharing the same CLAR platform as the latest 3 Series sedan, the Touring stretches 76mm longer than its predecessor at 4709mm, while also being 8mm taller at 1470mm and 16mm wider at 1827mm.

Stacked next to the sedan, the Touring features the same wheelbase (2851mm), and has wider front (+43mm) and rear (+21mm) tracks.

BMW is also boasting more headroom for all occupants in the Touring, as well as more front-seat shoulder room, while also being 25 percent stiffer and about 10kg lighter than before.

The now standard electric tailgate is also wider, which opens to a 500-litre boot.

The now standard electric tailgate is also wider, which opens to a 500-litre boot, up just 5L, that can be expanded to 1510L (+10L) with the 40:20:40 split-fold rear seats stowed.

For convenience, BMW has also carried over the opening rear window for loading small items.

Options are expected to include a hands-free opening tailgate, anti-slip floor rails and M Sport suspension.

Are wagons a better option than SUVs for driving enthusiasts? Tell us what you think in the comments below.