@ BMW Group Press
@ Volkswagen AG / VW Media
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BMW 3 Series Touring vs VW Golf Variant – Differences & prices compared

Two cars, one duel: BMW 3 Series Touring meets VW Golf Variant.
Which one wins in performance, efficiency and value for money? Find out now!

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

An In-Depth Comparison: BMW 3er Touring vs VW Golf Variant

When it comes to the versatile and practical world of wagons, two iconic contenders stand out: the BMW 3er Touring and the VW Golf Variant. Both of these vehicles offer a unique blend of style, performance, and innovation, appealing to drivers seeking functionality without sacrificing flair. In this article, we delve into an insightful comparison, examining technical specifications, innovations, and overall appeal of these two remarkable models.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Design and Dimensions

The BMW 3er Touring measures between 4713 mm and 4801 mm in length, with a width of 1827 mm to 1903 mm and a height ranging from 1440 mm to 1448 mm. Its sporty yet elegant aesthetics signify the brand's commitment to luxury and driving pleasure. In contrast, the VW Golf Variant is slightly shorter at 4631 mm, with a width of 1789 mm and a taller stature of 1487 mm. Both cars feature sleek profiles, but the 3er Touring leans more towards a performance-oriented aesthetic, while the Golf Variant incorporates classic functionality combined with modern design elements.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

Powertrains: An Array of Options

The engine lineup for the BMW 3er Touring is robust, offering petrol, diesel, and hybrid options, including a Plugin Hybrid variant. The power output ranges from a dependable 150 HP to a thrilling 530 HP, allowing for exhilarating acceleration times as low as 3.6 seconds for the high-performance version. Notably, it features MHEV technology in several models, promoting better efficiency without compromising power.

On the other hand, the VW Golf Variant presents a more streamlined engine selection, primarily offering petrol and diesel options, with a maximum output of 333 HP. The acceleration capabilities range from 4.8 seconds up to 10.5 seconds depending on the engine choice. This makes the Golf a tad slower but still capable, especially for daily commuting and family trips.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact

Fuel efficiency is a crucial factor for many buyers. The BMW 3er Touring exhibits impressive figures, with consumption ranging from 5.1 L/100km to as high as 10.4 L/100km for the more potent versions. Meanwhile, the Golf Variant showcases competitive efficiency with figures between 4.4 L/100km and 8.5 L/100km, reinforcing its image as an economical choice.

Both vehicles also place a strong emphasis on lowering CO2 emissions. The BMW models range from 135 g/km to 182 g/km, while the Golf Variant demonstrates a slightly better performance with figures as low as 115 g/km, making it an attractive option for environmentally-conscious drivers.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, both cars are designed to provide comfort and convenience. The BMW 3er Touring seats five and boasts a plush interior with premium materials and advanced technology integration, including a premium infotainment system with a focus on driver engagement for a dynamic experience. The spacious trunk capacity of 500 L adds a practical touch for families and adventurers alike.

In comparison, the VW Golf Variant also accommodates five passengers comfortably, with a larger trunk capacity of 611 L. The ergonomic layout emphasizes practicality, featuring intuitive controls and a user-friendly infotainment system. Both vehicles offer a wealth of technological innovations, such as driver assistance systems, adaptive cruise control, and advanced connectivity options.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Driving Dynamics

BMW is renowned for its driving dynamics, and the 3er Touring does not disappoint. With options for rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, the car delivers an engaging driving experience characterized by responsive handling and agility on the road. The 3er Touring can reach top speeds of up to 250 km/h, appealing to performance enthusiasts.

Conversely, the VW Golf Variant, equipped with front-wheel drive capabilities, offers reliable handling and comfort, although it may not deliver the same adrenaline-inducing performance as its BMW counterpart. The Golf Variant still provides a smooth driving experience that suits a wider range of driving conditions, making it a reliable choice for daily use.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

Conclusion: Which Wagon Reigns Supreme?

Choosing between the BMW 3er Touring and the VW Golf Variant ultimately depends on what the driver values most. For those prioritizing performance, luxury, and an engaging driving experience, the BMW 3er Touring stands out with its impressive powertrain options and dynamic handling. However, for buyers seeking practicality, fuel efficiency, and comfort at a potentially more accessible price point, the VW Golf Variant delivers an excellent package.

Both vehicles exemplify the best of what the wagon segment offers, each with its strengths and innovations. Whether you lean towards the prestige of BMW or the vibrant practicality of VW, you can't go wrong with either choice on your next adventure.

Here’s where it gets real: The technical differences in detail

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Efficiency:

Looking at overall running costs, both models reveal some interesting differences in everyday economy.

VW Golf Variant has a convincingly advantage in terms of price – it starts at 26100 £, while the BMW 3 Series Touring costs 41100 £. That’s a price difference of around 14919 £.

Fuel consumption also shows a difference: BMW 3 Series Touring manages with 2.50 L and is therefore convincingly more efficient than the VW Golf Variant with 4.30 L. The difference is about 1.80 L per 100 km.

3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

Engine and Performance:

Power, torque and acceleration say a lot about how a car feels on the road. This is where you see which model delivers more driving dynamics.

When it comes to engine power, the BMW 3 Series Touring has a noticeable edge – offering 550 HP compared to 333 HP. That’s roughly 217 HP more horsepower.

In acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h, the BMW 3 Series Touring is distinct quicker – completing the sprint in 3.50 s, while the VW Golf Variant takes 4.80 s. That’s about 1.30 s faster.

In terms of top speed, the BMW 3 Series Touring performs slightly better – reaching 300 km/h, while the VW Golf Variant tops out at 250 km/h. The difference is around 50 km/h.

There’s also a difference in torque: BMW 3 Series Touring pulls noticeable stronger with 700 Nm compared to 420 Nm. That’s about 280 Nm difference.

Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Space and Everyday Use:

Cabin size, boot volume and payload all play a role in everyday practicality. Here, comfort and flexibility make the difference.

Both vehicles offer seating for 5 people.

In curb weight, VW Golf Variant is noticeable lighter – 1366 kg compared to 1650 kg. The difference is around 284 kg.

In terms of boot space, the VW Golf Variant offers somewhat more room – 611 L compared to 500 L. That’s a difference of about 111 L.

In maximum load capacity, the VW Golf Variant performs minimal better – up to 1642 L, which is about 132 L more than the BMW 3 Series Touring.

When it comes to payload, VW Golf Variant minimal takes the win – 547 kg compared to 520 kg. That’s a difference of about 27 kg.

Who wins the race?

The BMW 3 Series Touring proves to be wins the duel decisively and therefore becomes our DriveDuel Champion!
BMW 3 Series Touring is the better all-rounder in this comparison.

from about £41,100
3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press

BMW 3 Series Touring

  • Engine Type : Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
  • Transmission : Automatic
  • Drive Type : Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
  • Power HP : 150 - 550 HP
  • Consumption L/100km : 2.5 - 10.5 L
  • Electric Range : 91 - 97 km

BMW 3 Series Touring

The BMW 3 Series Touring blends sporting poise with everyday practicality, wrapping sharp handling and a premium cabin into a wagon that actually makes errands feel enjoyable. It’s the kind of car that hides a family-hauler’s sense of duty beneath a driver's-car attitude — useful, classy, and just cheeky enough to make you smile on the open road.

details

VW Golf Variant

The Golf Estate packs Volkswagen's familiar poise into a practical, grown-up estate that quietly makes everyday life easier without shouting for attention. It's clever, comfortable and roomy enough for weekend kit or family chaos, offering smart packaging and refined manners that make it a sensible and surprisingly stylish choice for buyers who need space but don't want a van.

details
BMW 3 Series Touring
VW Golf Variant
3 Series Touring @ BMW Group Press
Golf Variant @ Volkswagen AG / VW Media

Costs and Consumption

Price
41100 - 131100 £
Price
26100 - 48700 £
Consumption L/100km
2.5 - 10.5 L
Consumption L/100km
4.3 - 8.2 L
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Consumption kWh/100km
-
Electric Range
91 - 97 km
Electric Range
-
Battery Capacity
19.50 kWh
Battery Capacity
-
co2
57 - 238 g/km
co2
114 - 185 g/km
Fuel tank capacity
40 - 59 L
Fuel tank capacity
45 - 55 L

Dimensions and Body

Body Type
Estate
Body Type
Estate
Seats
5
Seats
5
Doors
5
Doors
5
Curb weight
1650 - 2025 kg
Curb weight
1366 - 1621 kg
Trunk capacity
410 - 500 L
Trunk capacity
611 L
Length
4713 - 4801 mm
Length
4631 - 4651 mm
Width
1827 - 1918 mm
Width
1789 mm
Height
1440 - 1448 mm
Height
1462 - 1487 mm
Max trunk capacity
1420 - 1510 L
Max trunk capacity
1624 - 1642 L
Payload
405 - 520 kg
Payload
489 - 547 kg

Engine and Performance

Engine Type
Diesel MHEV, Petrol, Petrol MHEV, Plugin Hybrid
Engine Type
Petrol MHEV, Petrol, Diesel
Transmission
Automatic
Transmission
Automatic, Manuel
Transmission Detail
Automatic Gearbox
Transmission Detail
Dual-Clutch Automatic, Manual Gearbox
Drive Type
Rear-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Drive Type
Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive
Power HP
150 - 550 HP
Power HP
116 - 333 HP
Acceleration 0-100km/h
3.5 - 8.8 s
Acceleration 0-100km/h
4.8 - 10.5 s
Max Speed
213 - 300 km/h
Max Speed
202 - 250 km/h
Torque
250 - 700 Nm
Torque
220 - 420 Nm
Number of Cylinders
4 - 6
Number of Cylinders
4
Power kW
110 - 405 kW
Power kW
85 - 245 kW
Engine capacity
1995 - 2998 cm3
Engine capacity
1498 - 1984 cm3

General

Model Year
2024 - 2025
Model Year
2024 - 2025
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, E, F, G, B
CO2 Efficiency Class
D, G, F, C
Brand
BMW
Brand
VW
Is the BMW 3 Series Touring offered with different drivetrains?

The BMW 3 Series Touring is offered with Rear-Wheel Drive or All-Wheel Drive.

The prices and data displayed are estimates based on German list prices and may vary by country. This information is not legally binding.