BMW has released the first pictures of its new 3-series Touring, which goes on sale in the UK in September.

Longer, wider and taller than its predecessor, and with a longer wheelbase and increased luggage space, the Touring will be available initially with just two engine options the Euro IV compliant diesel 320d with 163bhp and combined economy of 47.9mpg and a 325i petrol with 215bhp. In the autumn the range will grow with the addition of 320i and 330i petrol and 330d diesel models.

All models come with a six-speed manual gearbox, with a six-speed automatic available as an option. All six-cylinder cars will also come with BMW’s new DSC+ system which, alongside the usual traction control features to stop wheelspin, wipes the brakes dry in wet weather and stops a manual gearbox car rolling backwards during a hill start.