After the presentation of the new BMW 3 Series (G20) at the last Paris Motor Show, and whose international press presentation is due tomorrow — and Razão Automóvel will be there —, it has now unveiled the top-of-the-range version M340i xDrive, which wins the title of the most powerful 3 Series ever… if we forget about M3.
There are 374 horsepower (275 kW) and 500 Nm, additions of 48 hp and 50 Nm compared to the predecessor 340i, extracted from a block of six cylinders in line and turbo. Coupled to this is an eight-speed automatic transmission with power distributed to all four wheels.
Such firepower is reflected in the benefits. The BMW M340i xDrive reaches 100 km/h in just 4.4s, just a tenth of a second longer than the M3 F30 which has recently ceased production. Top speed is predictably electronically limited to 250 km/h.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Touch M Performance
The name of the top-of-the-range 3 Series was changed from 340i to M340i, so the addition of that simple letter to its identification makes your mouth water. Starting with the sound of the six cylinders in line, which benefits from the presence of an M Sport exhaust, which accentuates the emanating sound, especially in Sport and Sport+ modes, thanks to the presence of a valve in the exhaust system.
A Launch Control is also present, and the variable power distribution over the two axles favors the rear, something that is evident, once again, in the sportier driving modes. Traction is further aided by the presence of the electronically controlled M Sport differential.
There was also an intervention at the chassis level, with the M Sport suspension, which brings the M340i to the ground by 10 mm, and includes a specific elastokinematics. Optionally there is the Adaptive M suspension, with electronically controlled shock absorbers; as well as Variable Sport Steering variable assistance steering.
M Sport brakes are also on the menu, with 348 mm front discs and four-piston calipers and 345 mm rear discs with caliper and one piston. As a distinctive feature, they are painted in blue and feature the M logo.
The wheels are 18″, surrounded by tires 225/45 R18 at the front and 255/40 R18 at the rear. Optionally, you can have 19″ wheels, with two designs to choose from, and accompanied by high-performance tyres.
What distinguishes you?
On the outside, the new BMW M340i xDrive comes with specific bumpers and side skirts and with a specific pattern on the typical double kidney grille. At the rear it is also possible to see two trapezoidal design exhaust outlets. Rearview mirror covers, grille contour and core, exhausts and the model's lettering are coated with Cerium Gray metallic tone.
In the interior, more sportiness is inspired thanks to the sports seats with specific coating in Sensatec/Alcantara, leather covered M steering wheel and Tetragon aluminum finishes. The door sills are also personalized with the M340i inscription.
