BMW 3 Series Saloon vs Maserati GranTurismo – Differences & prices compared

BMW 3 Series Saloon

The BMW 3 Series Saloon: A Benchmark for Modern Luxury

The BMW 3 Series Saloon continues to be a leader in the world of executive vehicles, combining elegant design with cutting-edge technology and performance. The 2024 range offers a wide array of options and features to cater to any driving preference while maintaining the iconic BMW charm.

Progressive Powertrains

The 3 Series Saloon presents an impressive lineup of powertrains, including Diesel Mild-Hybrid, Petrol, Plug-In Hybrid, and Petrol Mild-Hybrid options. Horsepower ranges from a respectable 150 PS to a thrilling 530 PS, providing flexibility for both conservative and performance-focused drivers. The car's environmental awareness is highlighted by CO2 efficiency classes spanning from B to G and an electrifying plug-in hybrid option with an electric range of up to 101 km.

State-of-the-Art Innovation

The engineering behind the 3 Series Saloon reflects BMW's commitment to innovation. With sophisticated features such as the 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission and mild-hybrid technology, this model enhances fuel efficiency while maintaining dynamic performance. Intelligent all-wheel drive (xDrive) is available for those seeking unparalleled traction and control, catering to both rear-wheel and all-wheel drive enthusiasts.

Performance and Driving Dynamics

Driving experience has always been a cornerstone of BMW's philosophy, and the 3 Series Saloon embodies this with precision-engineered dynamics. The vehicle delivers an exhilarating acceleration, with the M3 Competition model reaching from 0 to 100 km/h in merely 3.5 seconds. Meanwhile, top speeds extend up to 250 km/h, providing the thrills expected from a sport-oriented saloon. Furthermore, with torque outputs spanning from 250 Nm to a staggering 700 Nm, the car offers robust performance across its range.

Design and Comfort

The BMW 3 Series Saloon combines aesthetic appeal with functional design. It boasts a refined interior with a seating capacity for five, ensuring passenger comfort is prioritised alongside driver pleasure. The boot offers ample space, ranging from 375 to 480 litres, ensuring practicality is never an afterthought. Notably, the sleek dimensions, with lengths between 4713 mm and 4801 mm, underline both elegance and presence.

Advanced Features and Tech

Every part of the BMW 3 Series Saloon reflects forward-thinking technology, from its driver assistance systems to its advanced connectivity features. Rich with features like the Live Cockpit Professional and a range of M Sport packages, the saloon is designed to make each journey a pleasure. Moreover, the adaptive M suspension and variable sport steering further enhance handling and ride comfort, ensuring the driving characteristics are tailored to personal preferences.

Conclusion

The BMW 3 Series Saloon for 2024 not only maintains its reputation as a leading executive car but further pushes boundaries with its mix of performance, innovation, and luxury. Whether it is the efficient plug-in hybrid variants or the exhilarating M3 versions, the 3 Series offers something for everyone, establishing itself as a staple for any discerning driver.

Maserati GranTurismo

The Rebirth of a Legend: Maserati GranTurismo

The Maserati GranTurismo has always been synonymous with luxury and performance, capturing the essence of Italian automotive artistry. The latest iterations of this iconic model, the GranTurismo Folgore, Modena, and Trofeo, bring a new level of sophistication and innovation, marrying classic design with modern technology. Each variant offers a unique blend of power and style, catering to diverse preferences while maintaining the GranTurismo's core identity.

Innovative Powertrain: Electrification Meets Tradition

In an era of rapid technological advancement, Maserati has introduced the GranTurismo Folgore, a revolutionary electric version of the revered grand tourer. With 762 HP and a staggering torque of 1350 Nm, the Folgore redefines what is possible in electric mobility. Its 83 kWh battery delivers an impressive range of 455 km, ensuring that performance does not come at the cost of practicality. The car's electric consumption stands at an efficient 22.1 kWh/100km. The Folgore can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 2.7 seconds, boasting a top speed of 325 km/h.

For enthusiasts who still crave the roar of an internal combustion engine, the GranTurismo offers two petrol-powered variants: the Modena and the Trofeo. The Modena, with its 490 HP and 600 Nm of torque, captures the essence of traditional performance while offering a fuel consumption of 10.2 L/100 km. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.9 seconds with a top speed of 302 km/h. Meanwhile, the Trofeo variant boosts power to 550 HP and delivers a muscular 650 Nm of torque, accelerating to 100 km/h in a mere 3.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 320 km/h.

Exquisite Design: A Testament to Automotive Luxury

The GranTurismo is designed as an epitome of elegance with a coupe body type, characterized by its smooth lines and powerful stance. Its dimensions, measuring approximately 4960 mm in length, 1957 mm in width, and 1353 mm in height, assert its presence on the road while maintaining a sleek profile. The two-door configuration and spacious interior comfortably seat four passengers, offering both driver and passengers a luxurious experience. Trunk capacities of 270 to 310 liters ensure that practicality is not sacrificed.

Advanced Technology: The Heart of Modern Engineering

The GranTurismo series embraces automation with its advanced automatic transmission systems, including a reduction gearbox for the Folgore and automatic gearboxes for the petrol models. All variants feature an all-wheel-drive system, ensuring optimal performance and safety across various driving conditions. Both the petrol and electric models utilize cutting-edge technology to strike a balance between efficiency and exhilaration.

Environmental Consciousness: Performance with Purpose

In a nod to environmental concerns, the Folgore variant stands out with zero CO2 emissions, representing Maserati's commitment to a sustainable future. This is contrasted with the CO2 output of 230 g/km for the petrol variants, which still offer a thrilling driving experience for traditionalists.

A Look Ahead: The Future of GranTurismo

The 2024 model year brings the GranTurismo into a new era, combining traditional craftsmanship with futuristic technology. The GranTurismo starts from a price range of €178,608 for the Modena to €222,535 for the Trofeo, offering a spectrum of choices tailored to discerning tastes. Whether in electric or petrol format, the Maserati GranTurismo continues to embody the spirit of the grand tourer, promising an unparalleled blend of luxury and performance on every journey.