Despite not being as popular as SUVs, sedans are just as capable and competent. On the other hand, compared to its SUV rival, the X3 M40i, the M340i xDrive we are testing is significantly more involving, rewarding, and engaging to drive. Thanks to a smooth powertrain, nimble handling, and a firm but supportive ride, more than its rivals like the Mercedes-AMG C 43, Audi S4, and Genesis G70.
The 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six powering the M340i xDrive generates 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The engine and 8-speed gearbox are already smooth by nature, but there is now a 48-volt mild hybrid system that works in conjunction with them to add torque and smooth out shifts and engine starts. Although it may not seem like much, it gives the powertrain's operation a new level of refinement.
On the open road, the M340i competes favourably with more narrowly focused two-door sports cars like the Nissan Z and BMW M240i xDrive as one of the most exhilarating sports sedans at its price point. When you press hard on the fast pedal, you'll experience a tidal wave of acceleration and a robustness in the way it maintains that propulsion. No matter what gear you are in, there is a gobsmack of torque, and you can even move extremely quickly without ever exceeding 5,000 rpm. It feels faster and more accessible than an E90 M3 thanks to its incredible performance bandwidth.
The M340i makes driving accessible and beginner-friendly with a low learning curve and superior traction and stability control systems, which is a good way to describe how effortless it is. However, it has been purposefully designed for drivers who value handling and have access to winding roads in their neighbourhood.
Although the somewhat cramped rear seats might annoy taller passengers, supportive seats and an ergonomic interior add to the appeal. Although it doesn't produce the same adrenaline-pumping howl as a naturally aspirated V8, the roaring exhaust noise will drown them out. In Sport Mode, the engine emits a mature yet thrilling howl, which is followed by a light flurry of burbles and pops when the throttle is overrun.
Although the ride is firm, it doesn't make you feel anxious or uneasy when navigating potholed roads. Instead of neutralising all the oscillations and priceless road feedback, it prefers to hug every nook and cranny to let the driver feel the rhythm. This benefits those who enjoy carving corners by decreasing body roll and enhancing their driving style. We do, however, advise the optional adaptive suspension ($1,000), which adds a Comfort Mode for a softer and more compliant ride, for those who intend to commute over long distances or who live in an area with many potholes and damaged city roads. Or just purchase a standard 330i. The two-door 430i is functional as well, but we like the 3 Series' looks better because of its more conventional kidney grill.
The M340i felt right at home as we drove it up to the north to get some exercise on our favourite winding roads. We did not even need to shift out of third or fourth gear thanks to the torquey engine and all-wheel drive, which came in handy for the higher-speed, off-camber sweepers that were lightly dusted with snow from the previous night. It should be noted that our M340i xDrive test car had smaller 17-inch wheels wrapped in winter tyres instead of the standard 18-inch wheels, so the ride quality we experienced might differ slightly from yours.
BMW has really nailed the tuning of its variable-ratio steering, which feels more natural than before and doesn't require a great deal of micro-adjusting on the fly. Confident steering let us play around with its grip limits. The M340i xDrive's reasonable fuel efficiency is the cherry on top. The yield on the highway was an impressive 8.4 L/100 km, and when combined with city driving, it averaged out to 10.1 L/100 km.
The BMW M340i xDrive is the total package in terms of performance, wrapped in the form of a sports sedan. Despite not being as popular as the X3 SUV, it is a graceful performer with a distinct personality. Its low centre of gravity, superb handling, and smooth powertrain make it one of the most captivating cars to leave the BMW factory.
Specifications:
- Model: 2023 BMW M340i xDrive
- Paint Type: Skyscraper Grey Metallic
- Base Price: $66,000
- Price as Tested: $78,345
- Wheelbase(mm): 2,851
- Length/Width/Height (mm): 4,714 / 1,827 / 1,440
- Unladen weight (DIN) (kg): 1,725
- Engine: 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six with 48V mild hybrid system
- Horsepower: 382 hp @ 5,500 - 6,500 rpm
- Torque: 369 lb-ft @ 1,900 - 5,000 rpm
- Transmission: 8-speed automatic
- Engine & Drive Configuration: Front engine, AWD
- Observed Fuel Consumption (L/100km): 8.4
- Tires: Pirelii Sottozero; P225/50R17
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