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BMW is rounding out the product line of its best-selling car model by once again launching a performance version of the redesigned 3 series.
The M Performance 3-series sedans, the M340i and M340i xDrive, will debut at the Los Angeles Auto Show. Pricing will be announced at the show late this month.
The new models, expected to launch in July, are positioned between the high-end M3 and the standard 3 series.
The 3 series is key to the BMW lineup as the brand’s most popular car model; it is only outsold in the U.S. by the X3 crossover. Over six generations, the 3 series has ranked as the world’s best-selling premium car, with sales of more than 15 million.
With newcomers such as the Genesis G70 and Kia Stinger encroaching on what was BMW territory, the 3 series needs to showcase everything BMW has to offer, said Sam Fiorani, vice president with AutoForecast Solutions.
“As the halo model of the new 3 series, the M340i showcases everything that BMW represents,” Fiorani said. “Luxury and performance in an attractive package with the added benefit of all-wheel drive that will spread the appeal of the model, especially to northern markets.”
Power player
The 2020 BMW M340i and M340i xDrive sedans are equipped with an updated 3.0-liter, six-cylinder inline engine, M Performance chassis tuning, optional xDrive intelligent awd and the standard M Sport rear differential. The updated engine produces 382 hp, with the awd variant capable of doing 0 to 60 mph in 4.2 seconds.
Keeping as much power as the M340i generates connected to the ground requires special attention. BMW’s xDrive awd system helps improve grip and boost acceleration and handling of the new model.
By offering the M340i in two versions, drivers can choose whether they want the weight savings of the rear-wheel-drive edition or the added traction of awd.
Both variants are equipped with an eight-speed Sport Steptronic transmission that features a new hydraulic control system and shorter gearing for improved response and acceleration, BMW said.
BMW M340i vs. BMW M3 40i xDrive
| M340i | M340i xDrive | |
| Length | 185.7 | 185.7 |
| Width | 71.9 in. | 71.9 in. |
| Height | 56.8 in. | 56.8 in. |
| Width w/ mirrors | 81.4″ | 81.4″ |
| Wheelbase | 112.2 in. | 112.2 in. |
| Engine: | Inline 6 | Inline 6 |
| Horsepower | 382 hp | 382 hp |
| 0-60 mph | TBD | 4.2 secs |
| Top speed: | 155 mph | 155 mph |
The transmission’s controller networks with the navigation system, enabling it to take a planned route into account. Navigation data is used to downshift early, for example, when the car approaches an intersection. Likewise, the intelligent controller is able to avoid unnecessary gear changes when negotiating fast corners.
The 2020 BMW M340i and M340i xDrive sedans offer an array of sensors and technologies to lighten the load of driving.
The optional Driving Assistant Professional package includes a semi-autonomous driving system that allows for hands-free and pedal-free driving on limited-access highways and at speeds slower than 37 mph.
The system, which debuted this year in the redesigned X5 crossover, uses an in-cabin optical camera to address a critical challenge with semi-autonomous driving systems — ensuring that drivers are paying attention to the road. The camera mounted in the instrument cluster checks to see that the driver’s eyes are open and facing the road. The camera doesn’t record in-cabin activity, BMW emphasized.
The M340i sedans feature BMW’s new Intelligent Personal Assistant, an artificial-intelligence-powered system to help drivers communicate with their cars as they do with their smartphones.
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