The 3 Series Touring could make a return to the U.S. market with BMW’s next-generation model, according to a forum post citing an insider. While no decision has been finalized, recent comments from BMW North America suggest the company continues to evaluate demand for Touring models in the United States.
The History of the 3 Series Touring in America
The story of the 3 Series Touring began as a personal project by BMW prototype engineer Max Reisböck, who wanted a more practical vehicle for his family. After presenting the finished concept to the company’s board, the vehicle was approved for production.
American buyers did not receive the E30 or E36 Touring models. The wagon eventually reached the U.S. with the E46 generation, followed by the E91 and F31. However, the current G21 generation was never offered in North America.
Report Suggests a Possible Return
Although the outgoing G21 is not expected to arrive in the U.S., discussion has emerged about the next-generation G51. A post on the Bimmerpost forums claimed that an insider said the new model is once again being considered for the North American market.
The report aligns with an earlier statement indicating that BMW has been evaluating additional Touring models for U.S. customers.
Michael Keller, BMW North America’s vice president of product management, said:
“We are seeing continuous demand. We also saw customers petitioning for the M3 Touring, bringing it to the U.S. There is momentum in the market. These are all indications where we continue monitoring the market and trigger the right discussions.”
BMW Says No Final Decision Has Been Made
Despite the growing discussion, Keller also emphasized that no commitment has been announced.
“We will look into Touring concepts where it makes sense for the U.S. market, because at the moment we are quite happy with the M5.”
BMW Blog also reported that its own sources said bringing the next-generation Touring models to the U.S. is not a finalized decision.
The company continues to evaluate the opportunity, but the article notes that wagons remain a niche segment in the United States. It also states that BMW USA is likely to continue focusing on more profitable models, particularly with the redesigned X5 entering the lineup.
Which Touring Models Could Be Considered?
According to the article, the success of the M5 Touring demonstrates that there is demand for BMW’s long-roof performance models in the U.S., although it describes that audience as a specialized niche.
The report suggests BMW could complement M5 Touring sales by introducing the next-generation M3 Touring, reducing the need to pursue higher sales volumes with mainstream wagon models.
It also states that regular 3 Series Touring variants are unlikely to reach the U.S. market. The article says the 318 Touring and 320 Touring have virtually no chance of being offered in America, while the 330 Touring appears to have only very slim prospects. The M350, however, is described as having some potential because performance wagons have an established group of buyers.
For now, BMW has not confirmed plans to bring the next-generation 3 Series Touring to the United States, and the company continues to assess market demand before making any final decision.
