Hey guys, let's dive into the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo. This car is a bit of an enigma, isn't it? It's not quite a sedan, not quite an SUV, but somehow, it manages to blend the best of both worlds. If you're looking for something with the practicality of a hatchback but the driving dynamics of a BMW sedan, the GT might just be your jam. We're going to break down what makes this model tick, from its performance prowess to its surprisingly spacious interior, and help you figure out if it's the right fit for your lifestyle. Get ready, because we're about to get up close and personal with this versatile Bimmer.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

When you're talking about a 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo, you're talking about performance, folks. Under the hood, this beast packs a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine that roars to life with 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque. Yeah, you read that right – 300 horses! This engine is an absolute powerhouse, and it makes the 335i GT feel seriously quick. Whether you're merging onto the highway, overtaking slower traffic, or just enjoying a spirited drive on a winding road, this car has the grunt to deliver. The acceleration is smooth and relentless, thanks to the silky-smooth 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission that shifts almost imperceptibly. You can also choose to manually shift gears using the paddle shifters on the steering wheel for a more engaging experience.

But it's not just about raw power; it's about how that power is delivered. BMW is legendary for its driving dynamics, and the 335i GT is no exception. The steering is precise and communicative, giving you a real sense of connection to the road. The suspension strikes a fantastic balance between sporty handling and comfortable ride quality. Even though it sits a bit higher than a standard 3 Series sedan, it still corners with confidence and minimal body roll. It feels planted and stable, even at higher speeds. The rear-wheel-drive bias (though all-wheel-drive, xDrive, was also available) means you get that classic BMW feel, with the car wanting to rotate slightly into corners, making it incredibly fun to drive. For those who love to drive, this car offers a compelling blend of performance and refinement. It's a car that can easily handle your daily commute while also satisfying your desire for a bit of fun on the weekends.

Interior Comfort and Space

One of the biggest selling points of the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo is its interior, guys. BMW really outdid themselves here, especially with the GT concept. Forget feeling cramped; this car offers an incredible amount of space, particularly for rear-seat passengers. Thanks to its longer wheelbase compared to the standard 3 Series sedan, the rear legroom is simply cavernous. We're talking about space comparable to some larger luxury sedans, which is pretty mind-blowing for a car based on the 3 Series platform. This means your passengers will be super comfortable on long journeys, with plenty of room to stretch out.

But the spaciousness doesn't stop at legroom. The Gran Turismo body style also means a higher roofline, which translates to excellent headroom, even for taller folks. The seats themselves are supportive and comfortable, offering that signature BMW blend of sportiness and luxury. The driver's seat, in particular, is a fantastic place to be, with numerous power adjustments to find your perfect driving position.

The cargo area is another area where the 335i GT shines. The hatchback-style rear opening gives you a much larger and more versatile opening than a traditional sedan trunk. This makes loading bulky items, like luggage, sports equipment, or even flat-pack furniture, a breeze. The cargo space itself is generous, and the rear seats fold down to expand it even further. You'll find plenty of practical touches throughout the cabin, too, like well-placed cupholders and cubbies for your smaller items. The overall cabin design is classic BMW: driver-focused, with high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and a premium feel. Everything feels solid and well-built, from the soft-touch plastics to the leather-wrapped steering wheel. It’s a sophisticated and comfortable environment that makes both short trips and long road trips a pleasure. You really get a sense of thoughtful design and premium execution.

Technology and Features

When you're looking at a 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo, you're getting a solid package of technology and features that were pretty cutting-edge for its time. BMW's iDrive infotainment system is front and center, and for 2016, it was refined and user-friendly. Controlled via a crisp display screen and a rotary dial on the center console, it allows you to manage navigation, audio, phone connectivity, and vehicle settings with relative ease. While it might not have the massive touchscreens we see today, it was highly functional and intuitive, especially once you got the hang of it.

Standard features on the 335i GT typically included things like automatic climate control, push-button start, and power-adjustable front seats. Optional features were where things really got interesting. Many models came equipped with a premium Harman Kardon surround sound system, which is fantastic for music lovers. Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling and audio streaming was standard, but you could opt for enhanced Bluetooth with smartphone integration for even more seamless connectivity.

Safety features were also a priority. You'd find standard airbags, ABS, and stability control. Many examples were also equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems like blind-spot monitoring, lane departure warning, and a rearview camera. Parking sensors were also common, making it easier to maneuver this larger vehicle in tight spaces. The available Head-Up Display was a neat trick, projecting key information like speed and navigation directions directly onto the windshield in your line of sight, minimizing the need to look away from the road. The overall tech package in the 2016 335i GT is robust, offering convenience, entertainment, and safety that aligns well with the premium nature of the BMW brand. It’s a well-rounded system designed to enhance the driving experience without being overly distracting.

Practicality and Versatility

Let's talk about what really sets the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo apart: its sheer practicality and versatility, guys. This car was designed to be more than just a sporty sedan; it was made to adapt to a variety of lifestyles. The most obvious aspect is that hatchback rear end. Seriously, this is a game-changer for anyone who needs more cargo flexibility than a traditional trunk. Need to haul groceries, a stroller, or that new bookshelf you just bought? The GT handles it with ease thanks to its wide-opening tailgate. The cargo space itself is genuinely impressive, offering more room than a standard 3 Series sedan and even rivaling some smaller SUVs.

Beyond just the cargo space, the GT's longer wheelbase and taller roofline contribute to its overall sense of spaciousness, especially for rear passengers. As we touched on earlier, the legroom in the back is phenomenal. This makes it a great choice for families, or for anyone who frequently carries adult passengers. They'll have ample room to get comfortable, making long trips much more enjoyable for everyone. The higher seating position, compared to a sedan, also makes getting in and out easier, which is a nice bonus for many drivers.

The driving experience, while sporty, also leans into practicality. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road comfortably, making it a relaxed cruiser on longer journeys. While it's still a BMW and feels engaging to drive, it doesn't sacrifice comfort for sportiness. The available xDrive all-wheel-drive system further enhances its versatility, providing added confidence and traction in inclement weather. This means you can feel more secure driving it in snow or rain. It’s the kind of car that can seamlessly transition from a daily commuter to a weekend road trip warrior, capable of carrying passengers and gear without complaint. It truly offers a unique blend of BMW's renowned driving dynamics with enhanced usability that you don't always find in the segment.

Conclusion: Is the 2016 335i GT for You?

So, after breaking down the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo, the big question is: is this car right for you? If you're someone who appreciates BMW's driving pedigree – that sharp steering, potent engines, and balanced handling – but also needs more practicality than a traditional sedan offers, then the GT is definitely worth considering. Its cavernous rear-seat legroom and versatile hatchback cargo area make it a standout choice for families or anyone who regularly hauls more than just a briefcase. The 300-horsepower turbocharged inline-six provides thrilling acceleration, while the overall ride comfort ensures it's a pleasant companion for daily driving and long road trips alike.

However, it's important to note that the GT's styling is somewhat polarizing. It’s a unique look, and not everyone is a fan. If aesthetics are your absolute top priority, you might want to stick with the more conventional 3 Series sedan or wagon. Additionally, while the ride is comfortable, it’s not as sport-sedan-firm as some might prefer, though most will find it a great compromise. If you're in the market for a used luxury car that offers a fantastic blend of performance, space, and versatility, and you don't mind its distinctive appearance, the 2016 BMW 335i Gran Turismo could be an excellent value proposition. It’s a BMW that dares to be different, and for many, that's exactly what makes it so appealing. It’s a practical luxury car that still knows how to have fun.