2023 BMW M340i review - Bang for your buck | First Drive | Autocar India
Summary
TLDRThe 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
🚗 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.
🏎️ 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.
Mindmap
Keywords
💡BMW M340i
💡P58 motor
💡48-volt mild hybrid system
💡ZF 8-speed automatic transmission
💡Driving modes
💡M Sport suspension
💡XDrive all-wheel-drive system
💡Launch control
💡LCI (Life Cycle Impulse)
💡Carbon fiber accents
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]
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