BMW Reveals 3 Series Wagon

BMW AG says the sport wagon version of its redesigned 3 Series sedan will debut in Europe this autumn and in the U.S. next spring.

The new wagon has a track that is 1.5 inches wider in front and 1.9 inches wider in the rear. A slightly larger body improves rear passenger room and boosts cargo volume behind the second-row seats by 10%, according to the company.

Complementing the wagon's wider stance are several design changes that BMW says are intended to give the car a broader and more athletic look. BMW cites integrated grille and headlamps, a sculpted hood and air intakes under each headlamp that replace the previous model's single center intake. In the rear, LED taillamps are positioned at the extreme outer edges of the fenders to emphasize the wider body.

Among the new features is the 3 Series wagon's first power tailgate. A hands-free option enables the driver to open the hatch by sticking a foot under the rear bumper.

Other options include a color head-up display that shows speed, local speed limit, navigation instructions and various driver alerts. The wagon also can be equipped with automatic parking assist, a backup camera and lane departure and blind spot warning.