The BMW M3 is an incredible vehicle, it is an absolute track monster and could be a grocery getter and family hauler. Unlike the regular 3 Series, the M3 handles much better, it’s got better suspension, better braking, its body is enhanced for better aerodynamics, lightweight and superior performance. Especially, with the all new BMW M340i being revealed. But with these changes comes the hefty price tag, the M3 isn’t cheap.
BMW M340i makes a Grand Entry in the Indian Market
There is good news for buyers who want M3-like thrill at half the price. The M340i delivers that and feels superb. It may not be as aggressive as the M3, but it is still exciting and fun to drive. It offers true value for money. The car stands strong against its rivals.
Gunmetal grey accents on the grille, bumpers, and mirrors add a unique touch. Trapezoidal exhaust surrounds also set it apart from the 330i. Look closely, and the grille has a different pattern too. It looks sharp.
The standard 18-inch alloys look fine but are the same as the 330i. If that feels dull, the optional 19-inch wheels fill the arches well. They give the M340i a sharper and meaner stance.
Cabin
Inside, the M340i packs all the features from the higher 3 Series trims. The cabin feels premium with textured trims on the dash, part-alcantara seats, and M Sport accents. It carries a sporty vibe. Features include multi-colour ambient lighting, three-zone climate control, a digital instrument cluster, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen with gesture control. You also get BMW’s latest iDrive, heads-up display, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, voice commands, a sunroof, and wireless charging.
Engine/Transmission
Powering the M340i is a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged in-line six-cylinder engine mated to a sportier 8-speed ZF automatic transmission producing 387 hp and 500 Nm of torque. The gear shifts are crisp, enabling you to go through gears fairly quickly on a nice open road. The M340i will go from a standstill to a 100 km/h in just 4.4 seconds, that is a properly quick sport saloon. Thanks to the sports exhaust, the M340i not only drives and handles incredibly well, it sounds great too. The M340i does get aggressive in Sport+ mode, yet manoeuvrable.
Power is delivered to all the wheels via BMW’s Xdrive all-wheel-drive system. The suspension has been lowered compared to the 330i for better handling purposes giving the M340i a firmer ride. The M340i misses out on adaptive dampers. BMW says these will feature in the upcoming M3 and M4. The brakes get an upgrade, much needed when pushing the car to high speeds. In India, the M340i comes in an AWD setup. This may disappoint some buyers. But the Xdrive system works differently here. You can still break traction, slide the rear, and yet stay in control.
Conclusion
The BMW M340i is a brilliant automobile that will draw a lot of attention in the Indian market, it is sporty and practical. Most importantly, it’s a lot of car for the money.
