369bhp G20 BMW M340i Revealed, Will Do 0-62mph In 4.4sec

The range-topping version of the new 3-series is much faster than the car it replaces and has gained an M in its name
369bhp G20 BMW M340i Revealed, Will Do 0-62mph In 4.4sec

When BMW revealed the new ‘G20’ 3-series a few weeks ago, the derivative we were all especially interested in - the one with the big petrol straight-six - was noticeably absent.

It seems BMW wanted to save that one for the LA Auto Show, but it’s been worth the wait, as it sounds like a big step up from the old F30 340i. Now called the M340i (that M stands for M Performance, not Division, by the way), its 3.0-litre turbocharged six develops 369bhp, making 0-62mph possible in 4.4 seconds.

369bhp G20 BMW M340i Revealed, Will Do 0-62mph In 4.4sec

That’s more power than the E46 M3, and a slightly quicker acceleration figure than the E90 M3. Impressive stuff, and it’s all down to changes in BMW’s module 3.0-litre engine. The twin-scroll turbocharger has been “redeveloped,” with a new manifold and turbo assembly reducing spool-up times. The pressure the fuel injectors operate under has increased, while the block and cylinder head are - like on the old 340i - made from aluminium.

Another big factor in the 0-62mph being so brisk is the xDrive all-wheel drive system, which - along with a limited-slip differential on the rear axle - is fitted as standard. There’s no word on a rear-drive version, which seems unlikely at this time. Plus, your only transmission choice is an eight-speed automatic.

369bhp G20 BMW M340i Revealed, Will Do 0-62mph In 4.4sec

But don’t panic - it’s worth pointing out that these ZF-sourced autos tend to be very good in BMWs. Also, the all-wheel drive system does have a “rear-wheel bias,” BMW says.

In terms of styling, the M340i has been given specific front and rear bumpers, adding some particularly angry vents at the front. There are standard-fit 18-inch wheels, with 19-inch rims available as an option. Finally, you get some lovely blue paint plus M logos to finish off the four-piston front/single piston rear brake calipers.

369bhp G20 BMW M340i Revealed, Will Do 0-62mph In 4.4sec

The car sits 10mm lower than other 3ers on M Sport suspension, and the tracks are slightly wider. The suspension geometry differs from other cars in the range, and if you want to improve the handling further, there’s the option of fancy adaptive dampers.

It should go on sale in the UK either late spring or early summer, with a starting price approaching £50,000.

Comments

Jake 136

Yay! Oh wait no manual? Nevermind. Commence the “times have changed” people

11/13/2018 - 14:21 |
48 | 6

Have you ever driven a M135i/40i/335i/40i? The manual is bloody awful. Stick with the 8 speed its much better.

11/13/2018 - 14:55 |
38 | 8

I’ve driven multiple BMWs, manual and automatic, and the ZF 8 Speed is the best gearbox anyone could ever need. Relax with your manual thirst, it’s not that hype

11/14/2018 - 17:21 |
8 | 2
HinaXOX

drools

11/13/2018 - 14:22 |
0 | 0
Martin Burns

£50k ($65k) is absurd… what on earth are you paying for exactly?!

11/13/2018 - 14:30 |
2 | 2

It’s gonna be half that in 3 years anyways

11/13/2018 - 15:01 |
14 | 0

I recon that’s about right imo

11/13/2018 - 15:25 |
0 | 0

so is £30k for a good E46 M3.

but people do it anyways…..

11/13/2018 - 16:11 |
4 | 0
Can Erdem 1

i’d still get the C450 AMG… if i had any money to buy any of them tho

11/13/2018 - 14:34 |
6 | 4
Radu Gabriel

The M Sport version of the G20 looks horrible. Hopefully, the M3/M4 will look better.

11/13/2018 - 16:35 |
12 | 4
Morris

I just realized how overstyled this car is. The Challenger hellcat from the post below looks so much simpler and better

11/13/2018 - 16:41 |
12 | 4
CannedRex24

In reply to by Morris

But 10 years older?

11/13/2018 - 22:03 |
4 | 2

I agree. There is way too much going on at the front of this car

11/14/2018 - 07:31 |
4 | 2
J. Maksym

In reply to by Morris

It’s so overstyled they stole the rear lights from a lexus.

Thankfully, old beautiful BMWs will always be there for us

11/16/2018 - 18:35 |
0 | 0
TheMindGarage

The power wars are getting stupid now. 370hp is enough for an M3, yet alone a “M”340i. Focus on making them lighter and better to drive please!

11/13/2018 - 16:47 |
30 | 4
Chewbacca_buddy (McLaren squad)(VW GTI Clubsport)(McLaren 60

In reply to by TheMindGarage

If you want lightness and driving dynamics, get an E46 or E90 330i or 335i. These are luxury cars with a pinch on sportiness. Autobahn cruisers if you will

11/13/2018 - 20:26 |
0 | 2

Do you think car manufacturers make “heavy” cars because they dont want them to drive well you clearly have no idea how many rules there are that a car has to meet to be road legal and also it needs modern technology because noone will buy a modern saloon car without it

11/13/2018 - 20:42 |
10 | 2
Basith Penna-Hakkim

I’m sorry but this is just disappointing
RIP 3-series
I hope the M3 comes with a manual

11/13/2018 - 16:53 |
6 | 2
Twopoint0

Bmw styling and design is becoming increasingly mundane and uninspiring imo

11/13/2018 - 16:55 |
8 | 6
Anonymous

Ffs BMW, give us a manual! Otherwise, there’s no reason for me to not buy an Alfa Romeo Guilia.

11/13/2018 - 17:26 |
10 | 4
Lauge

In reply to by Anonymous (not verified)

I would choose a Giulia no matter what, and i am a huge BMW fan.

11/14/2018 - 07:34 |
0 | 0

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