A few weeks ago the new BMW 3 Series was unveiled at the Paris Motor Show. You can read more about the latest 3 Series by clicking here. Now the German company has debuted one of the upcoming performance models, badged the BMW M340i. The M340i serves as the performance model until the M-specific M3 and M4 twins arrive.

Click here to read about the upcoming BMW M8.

High-power       

The BMW M340i features a new turbocharged inline six-cylinder motor. The all-aluminium 3,0-litre engine has direct injection and fully variable valve control. All of this is responsible for developing 275 kW along with maximum torque of 500 N.m.

An eight-speed transmission is standard fitment on the BMW M340i. Torque is then sent to all four corners via BMW’s xDrive all-wheel-drive drivetrain. Much like other x-Drive-equipped BMW models the system features rear-wheel bias. Power distribution is fully variable between the front and rear axles. Like M models the BMW M340i is equipped with an M Sport differential. The limited slip differential increases and enhances agility during spirited driving.

BMW M340i xDrive transmission comes with a launch control programme. All-wheel drive traction and the launch control allows the M340i to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 4,4 seconds. That time makes it as quick as a previous generation M5.

Bespoke suspension

The standard BMW 3 Series standard suspension has been revised for the M340i. The car’s ride height has been lowered by 10 mm. M Sport suspension is standard. Standard 18-inch M light alloys wheels are wrapped in 225/45 R18 rubber on the front wheels and 255/40 R18 on the rear. 19-inch alloys are optional.

An M Sport braking system consists of four-piston calipers that clamp 348 mm discs at the front and single-piston calipers that work on 345 mm discs at the rear.

Bespoke looks

The M340i is differentiated by a model-specific front apron, side sills and the rear end. Other unique design elements include the BMW kidney grille boasting a mesh design, the rear spoiler in body colour. Trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes give the game away to those behind.

M-Specific upholstery, anthracite roof liner, an M leather-clad steering wheel with shift paddles and interior trim strips in aluminium create the right ambience.

Keep up to date with the latest on the via BMW’s local site.