2023 BMW M340i review - Bang for your buck | First Drive | Autocar India

Summary

The BMW M340i bridges the gap between the luxurious 3 Series sedan and the high-performance M3, offering a thrilling driving experience at a more accessible price point. Powered by a 3.0L inline-six turbo engine with 374 hp, it delivers exhilarating performance and impressive handling, thanks to its XDrive AWD system. The M340i LCI features modern upgrades like a 48V mild hybrid system, enhanced tech, and redesigned styling elements. Despite its sporty suspension, the car remains practical, offering a comfortable ride and decent interior space, making it an excellent value under one crore.

Takeaways

• 🚗 The BMW M340i bridges the gap between the practical 3 Series sedan and the performance-oriented M3, offering a balance of luxury and power.
• 💰 It is priced closer to the 3 Series while delivering performance near the M3, making it a great value under 1 crore.
• 🏎️ The heart of the M340i is BMW's 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo petrol engine, which revs up to 7000 RPM and delivers explosive performance.
• 🔋 The LCI version includes a 48-volt mild hybrid system, slightly lowering the horsepower from 387 to 374, but torque remains unchanged at 500 Nm.
• ⚙️ The 8-speed ZF automatic transmission is fast and highly responsive, offering precise gear selection across driving modes (Eco, Comfort, Sport, Sport Plus).
• 🏁 The M340i features launch control, capable of accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds.
• 🏋️‍♂️ The M sport suspension package lowers the ride height, enhancing handling, though it sacrifices some ride comfort on rough roads.
• 🛞 With the X-drive all-wheel drive system and M rear differential, the M340i provides excellent grip and balanced cornering performance.
• 🎨 The M340i LCI facelift includes updated LED headlamps, 19-inch alloys, and sporty design elements, enhancing its visual appeal and presence.
• 🎛️ The interior upgrades include a twin-screen infotainment setup with wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a carbon fiber finish, and redesigned sport seats for enhanced driving comfort.

Q & A

What is the main selling point of the BMW M340i compared to the regular 3 Series and the M3?

The BMW M340i bridges the gap between the practicality and luxury of the 3 Series and the performance of the M3, offering pricing closer to the 3 Series but performance closer to the M3.

What engine does the BMW M340i use, and why is it special?

The BMW M340i uses the P58 engine, a 3-liter inline six-cylinder turbo petrol engine that revs up to 7000 RPM, providing explosive performance and an exciting engine sound.

How has the power output of the BMW M340i changed in the new version?

The power has dropped by 13 horsepower, from 387 to 374 horsepower, but the torque remains the same at 500 Nm. This change is due to the integration of a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

What transmission system is used in the BMW M340i, and how does it perform?

The BMW M340i uses an 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, known for its fast and accurate gear shifts. It predicts gear changes exceptionally well, providing the right gear at the right time.

What are the driving modes available in the BMW M340i, and how do they affect the car's performance?

The driving modes include Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. Eco Pro and Comfort feature a coasting mode that helps save fuel, while Sport and Sport Plus keep the engine more responsive for faster acceleration.

How does the suspension system in the BMW M340i affect ride quality?

The M340i comes with the M sport suspension package, which includes shorter springs, firmer dampers, and harder stabilizers for better handling. However, this makes the ride quite firm on regular roads, though not uncomfortable.

What feature of the BMW M340i's design improves its handling on winding roads?

The car’s low ride height and stiff suspension enhance its handling on smooth, winding roads, allowing it to grip the road better and provide tighter cornering.

How does the X-drive system in the BMW M340i contribute to its driving dynamics?

The X-drive all-wheel drive system primarily powers the rear wheels but can transfer power to the front wheels when additional grip is needed, especially in cornering.

What interior upgrades are included in the BMW M340i's facelift version?

The interior of the BMW M340i LCI features a twin-screen setup with a curved layout, carbon fiber garnishes, and a stubby gear lever. It also includes wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, as well as a voice assistant.

How does the exterior design of the BMW M340i LCI differ from the previous version?

The BMW M340i LCI now features redesigned LED headlamps, honeycomb elements in the front grille, an aggressive front bumper, 19-inch alloys with floating BMW hubcaps, M light blue brake calipers, and larger twin exhaust housings.

Outlines

00:00

🚗 BMW m340i: The Perfect Balance Between Luxury and Performance

The BMW m340i is presented as a middle ground between the luxurious 3 Series and the high-performance M3. It offers practical luxury with performance levels close to the M3, but at a price closer to the 3 Series. The car boasts a blend of modernity and technology, making it a top choice for thrill-seekers under one crore.

05:02

🏎️ Power and Performance: The BMW p58 Engine

The BMW m340i is powered by the p58 three-liter inline six-cylinder turbo petrol engine, capable of revving to 7000 RPM. It produces 374 horsepower, down from 387 in previous versions, but retains 500 Nm of torque. This engine, paired with a 48V mild-hybrid system, delivers explosive performance with an exhilarating sound.

⚙️ Smooth Shifting: The 8-Speed ZF Automatic Transmission

The m340i is equipped with a highly efficient 8-speed ZF automatic transmission, known for its quick and precise gear changes. It features four driving modes (Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus), each with distinct settings that optimize fuel efficiency or performance. The gearbox excels in predicting the correct gear, providing a seamless driving experience.

🚀 Launch Control: Speed Meets Precision

The car includes launch control for rapid acceleration. With ESP and gearbox set to sport, it can achieve 0-100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. The m340i’s M Sport suspension package with lower ride height, firmer dampers, and stiffer stabilizers enhances handling, though it results in a firmer ride on standard roads.

🛞 Handling and Suspension: Built for Performance

Despite its firm suspension, the m340i remains comfortable for daily driving. The car’s low ride height and X-drive all-wheel drive system deliver excellent grip and control on winding roads. While the system transfers power to both the front and rear wheels, it lacks the ability to fully disengage the front axle for drifting like other M models.

🔧 Precision and Control: Steering and Braking Performance

The m340i offers precise and responsive steering, making it ideal for tight cornering. However, the thickness of the steering wheel may not appeal to all drivers. The car's brakes are highly effective, providing confidence when shedding speed during high-performance driving.

🔍 A Closer Look: What’s New in the BMW m340i LCI Facelift

The BMW m340i LCI facelift features new LED headlamps with inverted L-shaped DRLs, a redesigned front grille with honeycomb elements, and an aggressive bumper design. Its standout features include 19-inch alloys with floating hubcaps, M sport brake calipers, and a glossy black finish on the mirrors, resembling carbon fiber components found on M versions.

📱 Tech Upgrades: BMW’s Twin-Screen and Infotainment Enhancements

The interior of the m340i LCI has been modernized with a twin-screen setup that enhances the cabin’s premium feel. It includes features like wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, voice assistant, and connected car functions. Despite the removal of physical climate control buttons, the system remains accessible via the touchscreen.

💺 Comfort Meets Performance: Interior Features and Backseat Experience

The m340i’s interior is garnished with carbon fiber elements, and the new gear lever design adds a sporty touch. The front seats offer enhanced side bolstering for better support during cornering, while the rear seat remains comfortable but firm, especially on uneven roads. The 480-liter boot, along with a space-saver tire, adds practicality to the mix.

🎯 Final Verdict: Thrills and Practicality in One Package

The BMW m340i LCI is positioned as a practical yet thrilling car, combining the everyday usability of a 3 Series with performance near that of an M3. With added tech upgrades, a sportier design, and performance enhancements, it’s a highly desirable option for those looking for driving excitement under one crore.

Keywords

💡BMW M340i

The BMW M340i is the car featured in the video, described as a bridge between the practical 3 Series sedan and the high-performance M3. It combines luxury, technology, and performance, providing an exciting driving experience while being more affordable than the M3. This vehicle is central to the video's theme, highlighting its features, performance, and value.

💡P58 motor

The P58 motor is BMW's 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder turbo petrol engine, capable of revving to 7,000 RPM and delivering explosive performance. It's a key feature that sets the M340i apart, offering power and a thrilling driving experience. The video emphasizes its importance, mentioning its integration with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.

💡48-volt mild hybrid system

This system provides additional electrical assistance to the M340i’s engine, improving efficiency and performance. While it reduces the overall horsepower slightly (from 387 to 374), it maintains the car's torque and overall driving dynamics. The mild hybrid system exemplifies BMW’s effort to balance performance with modern technology.

💡ZF 8-speed automatic transmission

The ZF 8-speed automatic transmission is praised in the video for its quick and accurate gear shifts, contributing to the M340i's responsive and dynamic driving feel. The transmission is adaptive, able to predict and select the ideal gear for the situation, enhancing both performance and comfort depending on the driving mode.

💡Driving modes

The M340i features four driving modes: Eco Pro, Comfort, Sport, and Sport Plus. These modes adjust the car's performance characteristics, such as engine response and suspension stiffness, to suit different driving conditions. In Eco Pro and Comfort, the focus is on fuel efficiency and a smoother ride, while Sport and Sport Plus prioritize sharper performance.

💡M Sport suspension

The M340i comes equipped with an M Sport suspension package, which includes firmer springs, dampers, and stabilizers designed to improve handling. This suspension setup lowers the car's ride height, enhancing cornering performance but making it slightly less comfortable on rough roads. The video mentions this trade-off, emphasizingthe balance between handling prowess and ride comfort.

💡XDrive all-wheel-drive system

BMW’s XDrive system is an all-wheel-drive (AWD) technology that enhances traction and grip, especially during dynamic cornering. The M340i uses this system to improve stability and handling. While not the same as the XDrive Plus system in full M cars, it provides additional grip by sending power to the front wheels when needed, ensuring a stable and engaging driving experience.

💡Launch control

Launch control is a feature in the M340i that helps optimize acceleration from a standstill, allowing the car to go from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds. The video demonstrates how to activate this feature, which is crucial for drivers seeking maximum performance in straight-line acceleration.

💡LCI (Life Cycle Impulse)

LCI, or Life Cycle Impulse, refers to the mid-cycle update of the BMW M340i, which brings cosmetic and technological improvements. In this facelift, BMW has redesigned the LED headlamps, updated the front grille, and improved the interior with a twin-screen setup. This modernized version elevates the car's luxury and tech offerings, keeping it competitive in its segment.

💡Carbon fiber accents

The M340i features carbon fiber accents throughout the interior, adding a sporty and premium feel. These accents are in line with BMW’s M-performance branding, reinforcing the car's high-performance nature. The video highlights these details, emphasizing their contribution to the car’s overall aesthetic and character.

Highlights

the BMW m340i is a car that Bridges the

gap between the Practical luxurious 3

Series sedan and the hardcore

performance oriented M3

what's great is that it's pricing is

closer to the 3 Series well now the long

wheelbase version of course and its

performance is closer to the M3

BMW has taken that same winning formula

and Infused it with a touch of modernity

and Technology making this one one of

the best cars you can buy for under one

crore for all you Thrill Seekers out

so what is it that makes the m340i so

special you asked well it's the p58

Transcripts

foreign

[Music]

[Applause]

[Music]

the BMW m340i is a car that Bridges the

gap between the Practical luxurious 3

Series sedan and the hardcore

performance oriented M3

what's great is that it's pricing is

closer to the 3 Series well now the long

wheelbase version of course and its

performance is closer to the M3

[Music]

BMW has taken that same winning formula

and Infused it with a touch of modernity

and Technology making this one one of

the best cars you can buy for under one

crore for all you Thrill Seekers out

there

[Applause]

so what is it that makes the m340i so

special you asked well it's the p58

motor now that is BMW's three liter

inline six cylinder turbo petrol engine

that revs to a manic 7000 RPM and

delivers Explosive Performance and the

best part it sounds insane

[Music]

yeah

with the LTI version the engine also

features a 48 volt mild hybrid system

interestingly power has dropped by 13

horsepower from 387 to 374 horsepower

however torque remains identical at 500

newton meters

[Applause]

before is the 8-speed ZF automatic

transmission now this is fast it's quick

and it has an exceptional ability of

predicting exactly what gear you want to

be in and it gets it right every single

time

back before there are four driving modes

mainly Eco Pro Comfort Sport and Sport

Plus now what's nice is that when you

switch to Eco or when you've switched to

comfort it has a costing feature where

if you've left a leg off the accelerator

the engine goes into idling RPMs and it

engages neutral and the moment you get

back on the accelerator

it will get back into action and get

into a gear thus helping you save out on

your fuel consumption

in sport and Sport Plus however the

engine is always on guard and the

gearbox makes sure you are in a lower

gear at all times in order to give you

those instantaneous responses just when

you need them

unlike before there's launch control too

I I had to try it

ESP into sport

gearbox into sport left foot on the

brake

right foot on the actuator and

that ladies and gentlemen is 0 200 in

4.4 seconds

the eye gets the M sport suspension

package now that includes shorter

Springs which lower the right height

compared to the regular 3 Series it gets

firmer dampers and harder stabilizers

all in the interest of handling

so as you've guessed it ride quality has

taken a beating and it is quite firm on

regular roads however at no point does

it get jarring or uncomfortable

it is what I'd say a good compromise for

a car that handles so well

yes where you do need to proceed with

caution is while tackling speed Breakers

thanks to its 125 mm ground clearance

but find yourself a smooth winding

section of Road and the advantages of

its low ride height and stiff suspension

immediately become evident

the m340i drives beautifully well and it

grips and grips for days thanks to its X

drive all-wheel drive system

now this system is generally realized

but it will also transfer power to the

front wheels to give you that additional

sort of grip or to pull you out of a

corner when you need it the most

now unlike some of the M cars this is

not the X drive plus system where you

can completely disengage the front axle

and send all the power to the rear axle

for some sliding for some drift action

however it gets an M rear differential

where it can transfer power to either of

the wheels and it'll tidy up your line

and make your cornering even Tighter and

give you that much more driving pleasure

now while the stirring feel is excellent

it is quite pointy it is quite direct

what I didn't like however is the

thickness of the wheel itself I mean

it's a bit too thick for my liking

and the brakes do a great job of

shedding speed

[Music]

okay now that we know how it drives

let's pull over and see the other

aspects of this car and what else is new

about this car

[Music]

the m340i facelift that BMW calls LCI or

life cycle impulse Now features

redesigned LED headlamps with twin

inverted L-shaped drls yes LEDs replace

the laser light headlamps of the

previous lift version

new honeycomb elements inside the front

grille and a front bumper that sculpted

to exude an aggressive first impression

particularly attractive are its 19-inch

Alloys and uniquely these feature

floating BMW hubcaps akin to those on a

Rolls-Royce which remain in the standard

position even when the car is in motion

further upping its spottiness is the

generous M treatment which includes

signature light blue brake calipers M

badges on the front fender and even

mirror casings finished in gloss black

that resemble the M version's carbon

fiber units the rear bumper spots larger

twin exhaust housings finished in black

and a beefier diffuser the x-drive badge

has been omitted this time around

the talking point of the m340i LCI is

the twin screen setup in this curve

layout and these simply Elevate the

cabin's premium quotient this

infotainment screen is really easy

really fluid really intuitive in its

operation and the touch sensitivity I

mean it's spot on what's also nice is

that BMW has included Wireless Android

auto and Wireless Apple carplay in

addition to the connected car features

as well as the voice assistant function

in line with the current trends BMW has

gotten rid of the buttons for the

climate control system but what's nice

is that they remain your low down

permanently on the infotainment display

which is that much easier what's nice is

that there's a physical knob for the

volume control as well as to change the

tracks and the hazard light button is

also right where you'd expect it to be

also in line with the BMW m340is 40

character BMW has garnished the

Interiors with a lot of carbon fiber

also the gear lever is now a small

stubby unit and well the rest of the

button layout remains unchanged

the front seats are sportier than the

regular version with harder cushioning

as well as electrically adjustable side

bolstering to hold you in place while

cornering and just like a regular 3

Series the backseat experience is very

similar I mean you have decent amount of

leg room you have decent amount of

Headroom and the seat itself is pretty

comfortable but your friends will know

immediately that they are not in any

ordinary 3 Series while they are seated

behind thanks to this cars they're for

suspension

they'll feel pretty much every road

shark every third every tongue while

seated out here and at 480 liters the

boot is quite practical too what's more

despite riding on run flat tires the

m340i also includes a space saver Tire

tucked beneath the boot floor

and here's a look at the equipment on

offer

so the BMW m340i is a car that's almost

as practical and usable as a three

series but far far more thrilling to

drive and now with a much needed

makeover and more Tech it has become

even more desirable than it already was

in fact the BMW m340i LCI is so good it

is one of those rare cars which delivers

much more than its asking price

now I've said it before

in my opinion this m340i is all the car

all the performance and all the handling

you need and I'll say it again if you

are looking for something that packs in

Oodles of driving Thrills on this side

of rupees one crore your search engine

[Music]