What's New for 2013
The 2013 BMW 3 Series wagon is fully redesigned, aligning it with the next-generation sedan that debuted last year. Both benefit from now-standard power front seats and a new M Sport equipment line, while "xDrive" all-wheel drive makes its return to the sedan lineup. Meanwhile, the ActiveHybrid3 makes its debut for 2013, offering 28 mpg combined and an eye-popping price.
Introduction
Last year's introduction of the new BMW 3 Series was a very big deal. In Germany, we imagine parades being held in its honor with blue-and-white checkered flags flapping from windows as men in lederhosen clang steins of Franziskaner together in a foamy exclamation of celebratory revelry. In America, the new 3 Series represents the reinvention of not only the best-selling luxury car in this country but also the most heralded sport sedan of all time. No Bavarian parade, perhaps, but still very much noteworthy.
However, last year's redesign only applied to the 328i and 335i sedan. For the 2013 BMW 3 Series, the wagon model gets the same changes as its conventionally trunked sibling; the coupe and convertible are still unchanged. The new-generation sedan and wagon are larger, but weigh less. The steering is now electrically assisted in an effort to improve fuel efficiency, and unfortunately it's lost a bit of that trademark BMW steering feel in the process. Like all recently introduced BMW models, the 3 Series sedan and wagon get Driving Dynamics Control, which allows the driver to select among four modes that alter throttle response, steering effort and shift patterns of the automatic transmission.
The most noteworthy difference between the newer four-door body styles and the carryover two-doors is under the hood of the 328i. Whereas the coupe and convertible maintain the traditional, naturally aspirated inline-6 engine, the sedan and wagon get a turbocharged four-cylinder that produces more horsepower and achieves 5 mpg more on the EPA combined driving cycle. That's what you call a win-win. Meanwhile, the 335i's turbocharged inline-6 is the same regardless of body style or generation, and it's one of the most invigorating engines in the luxury segment even while nearly matching the four-cylinder's fuel economy.
Unique changes for the 2013 BMW 3 Series Wagon are restricted to the cargo area. The split two-piece liftgate continues, only now the top piece is power-operated. Plus an optional feature allows you to open it simply by swiping a foot under the bumper, which is handy when your hands are full with luggage, groceries, or children.
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