2012 BMW 3 Series Touring (F31) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The height of the BMW 3 Series Touring F31 ranges from 1416 mm to 1434 mm (approximately 55.7 to 56.5 inches) depending on the specific model and suspension setup. This height ensures a sleek and sporty profile typical of BMW's design ethos while allowing for ample headroom inside the station wagon configuration.

The curb weight of the BMW 3 Series Touring F31 varies from 1450 kg to 1719 kg (approximately 3197 to 3789 pounds), influenced by engine type, equipment level, and drivetrain. Its maximum permissible weight ranges from 2000 kg to 2240 kg (about 4409 to 4938 pounds), which accounts for passengers, cargo, and additional load, ensuring safe operation within the vehicle's design limits.

The BMW 3 Series Touring F31 offers a generous luggage capacity of 495 liters (roughly 17.5 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright, sufficient for daily needs and travel luggage for small families. When the rear seats are folded down, this expands significantly to 1500 liters (approximately 53 cubic feet), allowing for transporting larger cargo and enhancing the vehicle's practicality as a versatile station wagon.

The ride height or ground clearance of the BMW 3 Series Touring F31 ranges between 127 mm and 145 mm (about 5.0 to 5.7 inches), depending on suspension tuning and optional equipment like sport suspensions. This moderate ground clearance complements the vehicle's sporty handling characteristics while providing enough clearance for everyday driving conditions without compromising stability.

The BMW 3 Series Touring F31 supports a variety of rim sizes ranging from 16 to 19 inches, including sizes like 7J x 16, 7.5J x 16, 7.5J x 17, 8.5J x 17, 8J x 18, 8.5J x 18, 8J x 19, and 8.5J x 19. Corresponding tire sizes include 205/60 R16 92V, 225/55 R16, 225/50 R17, 255/45 R17, 225/45 R18, 255/40 R18, 225/40 R19, 255/35 R19, among others. This array offers various options balancing comfort, performance, and aesthetics.

Yes, the BMW 3 Series Touring F31 generally fits into a standard single-car garage. Its length spans about 4624 to 4627 mm (182.0 to 182.1 inches), and width including mirrors is roughly 2031 mm (79.9 inches). Most standard garages, typically around 2400 to 2700 mm (94.5 to 106 inches) wide and over 5000 mm (197 inches) deep, can accommodate the car comfortably, though owners should ensure adequate space for mirror clearance and door opening.

Compared to its predecessor, the BMW 3 Series Touring E91, the F31 model is slightly longer and wider. While the E91 measured approximately 4545 mm (179 inches) in length and around 1803 mm (71 inches) wide, the F31's length ranges from 4624 to 4627 mm (182 to 182.1 inches), and width is 1811 mm (71.3 inches). The F31 also benefits from improved luggage capacity and a more modern design, reflecting enhanced practicality and presence.

In terms of size and practicality, the BMW 3 Series Touring F31 competes closely with premium compact executive wagons like the Audi A4 Avant and Mercedes-Benz C-Class Estate. The F31’s luggage capacity of 495 liters (up to 1500 liters with folded seats) offers ample cargo space comparable to or slightly better than these rivals. Dimensionally, it holds a balanced size that favors agile handling without sacrificing interior space. The vehicle also stands out for its blend of sporty driving dynamics and everyday usability in the station wagon segment.

The BMW 3 Series Touring F31 has a maximum roof load capacity of 75 kg (approximately 165 pounds). When carrying loads such as roof boxes, bike racks, or luggage carriers, owners should ensure the weight does not exceed this limit to maintain safe handling and structural integrity. It's also important to distribute the load evenly and secure it properly. Exceeding this limit can affect fuel efficiency, vehicle stability, and could cause damage to the roof structure or mounting points.