New BMW M340i produces 368bhp, to debut at LA Motor Show

-  The new-gen 3 Series now gets its most powerful version, which isn’t the M3. 

-   The M340i gets a straight-six with xDrive and M-specific suspension and differential.

-  To debut at the 2018 Los Angeles Motor Show later this month. 

BMW revealed the all-new G20 3 Series at the 2018 Paris Motor Show just a few weeks back. The seventh-generation 3 arrived with five engine options and we were eagerly waiting for the full-blown M3 to arrive sooner rather than later. But ahead of the super saloon, BMW has revealed the top-spec M340i version of the new 3 Series which will debut at the upcoming LA Motor Show. 

The new M340i is the most powerful 3 Series till date. It is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbo straight-six sending power to the xDrive all-wheel-drive system channelled through an eight-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox. This is a newly developed engine and it features an aluminium crankcase and an aluminium cylinder head. The twin-scroll turbos are tuned along with steel exhaust manifold. 

Compared to the older M340i, the new engine produces 45bhp and 50Nm more output enabling a 0-100kmph time of just 4.4seconds (0.5 seconds quicker than before). The M Sport differential is electronically controlled with a fully variable rear-locking function. This top-spec sedan also sits 10mm lower than the standard variant. The Adaptive M suspension is available as an optional extra. The brakes are bigger as well for better-stopping power and they bear M logo to add the extra oomph which is further enhanced by M-spec 19-inch lightweight alloy wheels. 

The M340i also looks the part with its cosmetic updates. This includes the new iteration of BMW’s kidney grille which features mesh design instead of the characteristic vertical louvres. There is a small spoiler at the back and the massive trapezoidal exhaust tips scream performance. Furthermore, the front bumpers get an aggressive chiselled look and distinct Cerium Grey metallic trim finishes which are seen all around the car. The cabin too gets a lot of M340i logos apart from Sensatec/Alcantara upholstery. The aluminium “Tetragon” trims seen all around the cabin makes it look extra special. 

Following its debut at the LA Motor Show, the M340i will only go on sale in the international market by July 2019. It is the next best thing after the upcoming new-gen M3 and we will love to see it arrive in India as well when the new 3 Series makes its way to our shore.