BMW 340i A Modern Take On The Classic 3 Series

In the car business longing for the old days can become a short path to the graveyard.  In recent years BMW has swung for the fences to widen its market base which has resulted in confounding changes to the numeric alpha naming system … including the emergence of the missing 4 Series between the popular 3 and 5 series models.

The latest revision of the BMW 340i boosts power with a new B58 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six cylinder plant that kicks out a persuasive 320 horsepower doing 0-60 in just under 5 seconds.

If tradition is important, the evolved BMW profile, distinctive front fascia and grille, have come through the nips, tucks and sexy sheet metal folds and flourishes largely intact. And more importantly this 340i has the millennial theft deterrent system – a six-speed manual transmission.

In terms of driving dynamics, old line purists decry the easy manners of new era  3 series.  To be fair these critics are comparing a 2016 vehicle to some fond memory of a late 80s early 90s model with all attendant youthful exuberance and enhancements.

The performance M badged 340i with a Track Handling package is stiffer, offering flatter and more effective cornering.

Inside the BMW sense of style, comfort and practicality has been upgraded with minor touches and more intuitive technology controls. 

Base priced at $49,000 the fully tricked BMW 340i with the xDrive all wheel drive pushes past $60,000. And this is just a 3 in a line-up that ascends to the 7 Series and the $140,000 i8 hybrid electric supercar.

BMW 340i Specs:

Engine: 3.0L turbo inline six

Power: 320 hp, 332 lb-ft torque

Transmission: 6 speed manual or 8 speed auto

EPA Fuel Economy: 22 mpg city, 33 hwy, 23.1 mpg observed

US Pricing: BMW 340i xDrive approximately $49,000 – $60,000