BMW M340i

The M340i is a single trim with a single powertrain option. However, it can be chosen in either an RWD configuration or in an xDrive AWD version powering all four wheels. The M340i is a superb option in the segment as it comes with a powerful 3.0L turbocharged Inline-6 mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. There are also many interiors, exterior, performance, and tech options available to equip in the M340i sedan, which makes the deal all the more sweet.

The 2022 BMW M340i comes in a single standalone trim that stands at the top of the 3-series lineup and below the M3, and the newly introduced BMW 330e. The M340i is available in both RWD as well as AWD iterations with the same powertrain configuration. The M340i comes with a 3.0 L Inline-6 under the hood producing 382 hp and 368 lb-ft. The only transmission available is an 8-speed automatic and there is no manual option available.

Coming to the features on point, BMW equips the 2022 M340i with the latest Live cockpit Pro digital instrument cluster, that now comes with in-built navigation. Further various packages are on offer, although for a premium, namely Driving Assistance Professional, High-performance Tire package, and a $1600 Premium package.

The current 2021 BMW M340i model is delivering an EPA rating of 23 miles per gallon of fuel in the city while providing 32 on the highways, which is more or less the same for the upcoming 2022 M340i model as well. However, with its AWD variant, you can expect a drop of 1-2 MPG on both driving scenarios. With the same engine, nothing different can be expected on the gas mileage front. It comes with a 15.6-gallon fuel capacity which because it has good MPG figures, delivers a respectable range.

An excellent refined motor of the M340i can be seen by glancing at the above table. The MPG figures of 22 in the city, 32 on the highway, and a combined value of 26 are the highest among the competitors. Moreover, the tank is of adequate size, which takes care of its range very well. This will be boosted much further if a hybrid option is available. The Infiniti Q50 Red Sport has the largest tank, which obviously allows it to have a much better range. Mercedes offers the least efficient MPG figures among the competition.

As always, it aims to balance performance, luxury, and technology to provide drivers with a signature BMW experience - Motortrend

BMW always provides a cabin that is driver-centric with high-quality materials and oodles of tech on offer. And the upcoming model doesn’t likely feature any major overhaul. As you open the door, it welcomes you with an M-performance aluminum scuff plate, and the interior totally signifies a performance car. The dashboard has an elegant design structure with five different trims available to choose from according to your likes, including Aluminum Tetragon and Open Pore Wood Oak Grain trims. The upholstery comes as standard in Sensatec leather whereas various options of Vernasca leather are also available.

The center area with the infotainment panel on the top is faced towards the driver at just a perfect angle, which makes it quite easy to browse. The 3-spoke steering is nicely wrapped in black leather with the M-badging at the bottom. However, you can find leathers all over the cabin. The sport bucket seats at the front feature 14-way power adjustments with 2 memory functions, and have excellent bolsters. Coming to the rear, this seat can easily accommodate 2 adults and a youngster in the middle, with an adequate amount of room for all. It also features an automatic 3-zone climate control system including micro-filter and automatic air recirculation.

Some truly standout features on its interior are:

• Aluminum accents on dash and door trim.
• 14-way power-adjustable sport bucket seats
• Standard Sensatec leather upholstery
• Optional Vernasca leather upholstery in different color options
• Cabin ambient lighting.
• Heated and ventilated front seats.
• Fully digital MID with different appearances for different drive modes.
• 3-spoke power telescopic, leather-wrapped, multi-function M sport steering wheel

BMW has upgraded its infotainment panel significantly in the last few years, which now looks more stylish with a lot of angled structure instead of a simple rectangular design which many automakers do. A 10.25-inch touchscreen display featuring the BMW iDrive 7.0 system is placed on top of the dash that is paired with a HiFi Sound System with a 205-watt digital amplifier and 10 speakers, which can also be upgraded to a 16-speakers Harman/Kardon premium audio system at extra cost.

Some of the noticeable features of its infotainment are:

• Live Cockpit Professional with a 12.3" digital instrument cluster
• 10.25" central information display
• 16-speakers Harman/Kardon sound system (optional)
• Gesture controls
• Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
• SiriusXM with 360L + 1-year all-access subscription
• Voice command recognition feature

The 2022 BMW M340i won’t likely feature any major modifications with its exterior. It looks elegant with just a required amount of cuts and creases, and the air vents moreover add to the impressive design silhouette. The BMW’s signature kidney grille now comes with tri-arrow design elements and has active opening and closing when required. The headlights are very sleek and sharp with BMW’s laser light setup which adds to its aggression. 

Coming to the wheels, it features 18-inches M-performance alloys in the gun-metal finish with all-season tires that have a significantly low profile, and the M-performance brake calipers truly stand out. The side and rear-end are perfectly aligned with the front. From the rear as well, it looks quite aggressive. The bottom has thick black cladding which incorporates two exhausts at both ends. The same design philosophy is most likely to be in the upcoming model as well. Overall the M340i is a beautiful-looking sedan.

All the specs of the M340i are very similar to the others, but the ground clearance of 5.4-inches offered by it is the highest among all, which will certainly help in bumpy roads. The M340i is also the heaviest among the competition, but the difference is not very significant. All of the cars in the comparison are on par with each other when it comes to exterior beauty.

Notable exterior features of the 2022 M340i include-

• 18" M Double-spoke bi-color orbit grey wheels, style 790M
• 2-way power glass moonroof with "one-touch" operation and power interior sunshade
• Aerodynamic Kit
• M rear spoiler
• 11 wheels options of 18 and 19-inch sizes

The 2022 BMW M340i is equipped with an Active Protection System that detects chances for a probable accident. The system automatically pretends the safety belts, closes the windows and moonroof, and activates post-crash braking. The system also includes Fatigue and Focus Alert features. It also comes with an impact sensor that disconnects the alternator, fuel pump, and starter from the battery; automatically unlocks doors. The system also turns on hazard and interior lights. Coming onto the crash tests, the 2021 M340i was awarded the "Top Safety Pick" honor from IIHS and a 5-star rating from NHTSA. The same can be expected from the 2022 MY as well.

Further, the M340i sedan is also equipped with a set of safety features including the following ones-

• Available M Sport brakes
• Active Guard
• Frontal Collision Warning
• Automatic City Collision Mitigation and Braking
• BMW Assist eCall includes Emergency Request (SOS button) and Enhanced Automatic Collision Notification
• LED Headlights with Cornering Lights
• Automatic high beams
• Driver Monitoring Alert
• Rear Cross Traffic Alert

The extreme 2022 BMW M340i will definitely fulfill your demand for both performance and comfort. The giant 3.0L turbocharged Inline-6 motor is capable of achieving 0-60 mph within 4.2 seconds and the structure gives a promising handling and driving experience. It offers all the features in the cabin that one would expect from it. And the exterior design philosophy just catches your attention. However, with the 2022 model, we can’t expect any major overhaul but it is well worth waiting for it.