The 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo is an unusual machine. It takes the familiar bones of the BMW 3 Series, stretches the wheelbase, raises the roofline, and adds a liftback tailgate. If you're looking for standard sedan styling, this isn't it. Instead, you get a hatchback utility that offers massive rear legroom and substantial cargo space without forcing you into an SUV.
Underneath that fastback skin lies the N55 turbocharged inline-six engine. This motor delivers strong acceleration and a refined exhaust note that makes daily driving entertaining. While enthusiasts often debate whether the Gran Turismo's styling works, shoppers seeking a practical luxury cruiser find a lot to like.
Let's break down everything you need to know about this unique hatchback, covering its performance, interior space, common mechanical points, and real-world ownership experience.
Engine Performance and Specifications
Powering the 2016 model is BMW's trusty N55 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six. It pumps out 300 horsepower and 300 pound-feet of torque. Power routes through a responsive eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, and in North America, all-wheel drive came standard via BMW's xDrive system.
That engine setup moves the heavier Gran Turismo with authority. Zero to 60 mph happens in roughly 5.1 seconds. You get smooth power delivery across the rev range, with peak torque available from just 1,300 rpm. Passing slower traffic on the highway requires nothing more than a flex of your right foot.
Fuel economy sits around 20 mpg city and 30 mpg highway according to EPA estimates. Real-world numbers typically hover in the mid-20s depending on your driving habits and weather conditions.
Interior Space and Practicality
Cabin space is where the Gran Turismo destroys its sedan and wagon siblings. BMW stretched the wheelbase by 4.3 inches compared to the standard 3 Series sedan, and almost all of that extra room went straight to the rear seats.
Rear passengers enjoy legroom that rivals larger executive sedans. Adults can stretch out completely without their knees touching the front seatbacks. Headroom is also generous, surviving the sloping roofline thanks to the elevated seating position.
Behind the rear seats, you get 24.6 cubic feet of cargo space. Fold the 40/20/40 split rear seats flat, and that capacity expands to 56.5 cubic feet. The wide liftback opening makes loading bicycles, luggage, or large furniture significantly easier than stuffing items through a traditional sedan trunk.
Handling and Ride Quality
Don't expect the razor-sharp agility of a stripped-down 3 Series sport sedan. The Gran Turismo carries extra weight and a taller center of gravity.
On the highway, it shines. It tracks straight, isolates wind and road noise effectively, and handles long road trips with total composure. The suspension leans toward comfort rather than track readiness. If you want sharper cornering, finding a model equipped with the M Sport package helps tighten body roll, but the ride remains cruiser-focused.
Steering is typical modern BMW: heavily assisted, accurate, but light on tactile feedback. It's easy to park in tight urban garages while remaining stable at triple-digit speeds on the Autobahn—or local tracks.
Common Reliability and Maintenance Points
Buying a pre-owned 2016 BMW means keeping a close eye on maintenance records. The N55 engine is widely considered more reliable than its N54 predecessor, but it still has known trouble spots.
Oil filter housing leaks and valve cover gasket failures happen as these vehicles age past 80,000 miles. Plastic coolant fittings become brittle and crack, leading to sudden coolant loss. Check the service history for regular fluid changes; waiting 15,000 miles between oil changes is a fast track to mechanical trouble.
The ZF eight-speed transmission is generally robust, but BMW's lifetime fluid claims are misleading. Changing the transmission fluid and pan every 60,000 miles keeps shifts crisp. For more guidance on vehicle maintenance schedules, consult the NHTSA safety portal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo reliable?
Yes, compared to earlier turbo models, the 2016 335i with the N55 engine is relatively dependable. Preventative maintenance is mandatory. Ignoring minor leaks or cooling system wear leads to expensive repairs down the line.
How does the Gran Turismo compare to the 3 Series Wagon?
The Gran Turismo has a more sloping roofline, a longer wheelbase, and significantly more rear legroom than the wagon. The wagon offers a boxier cargo area that handles tall, square boxes slightly better, but the GT wins on passenger comfort.
Does the 335i Gran Turismo have all-wheel drive?
In North American markets, all-wheel drive via the xDrive system came standard on all 335i GT models. Rear-wheel-drive variants were primarily sold in European markets.
What is the fuel economy of the 2016 335i GT?
It averages roughly 20 mpg in city driving and up to 30 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined average in the mid-20s under normal driving conditions.
Is the spoiler active?
Yes. The 335i GT features an electronically controlled rear spoiler that automatically deploys at speeds above 70 mph to reduce lift and retracts when speeds drop below 50 mph. You can also deploy it manually via a button on the driver's door panel.
