The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is a car that achieves greatness in nearly every measurable metric and more. It is a well-rounded car that showcases the best attributes of something within a given design. The modern G20 generation of the 3 Series has been out since its unveiling at the Paris Motor Show in 2018, and the 2022 Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) refresh brought about new exterior styling, updated packaging and options changes, as well as the iDrive 8 infotainment system and screen setup in the interior.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the 2024 BMW M340i xDrive and examine its features and capabilities. We will explore the impressive fuel economy, the glorious B58 engine, and the mild hybrid now integrated within the transmission. We will also discuss the car’s downsides, such as the iDrive 8 infotainment system, and answer frequently asked questions about the car.
Key Takeaways
- The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive achieves greatness in nearly every measurable metric.
- The car features a well-rounded design that showcases its best attributes.
- Despite some downsides, the car’s impressive fuel economy and glorious B58 engine make it a proper sportscar through the canyons.
Nearly As Large As The E39 5 Series
The G20 BMW 3 Series has grown in size, and it is now almost as large as the E39 5 Series. Despite the increased size, the car has managed to retain its agility and sporty driving dynamics. The car is now less than two inches shorter than the E39 generation of the five series, which was one of the most popular BMWs of all time. The G20 BMW 3 Series has a longer wheelbase, which translates to extra rear legroom and trunk space. The trunk space is now 17 cu ft, which is enough to fit two large checked bags, a backpack, and three large duffle bags that just barely meet TSA compliance for overhead bin carry-on bags.
The G20 BMW M340i xDrive is a great car that deserves more credit. It has a lot of good attributes, such as a great performance, driving dynamics, and a good daily driver. The B58 engine sounds great, and the car is a joy to drive. However, there are some downsides to this car. It is expensive, and the auto/start stop feature can’t be easily turned off. Additionally, the iDrive 8 system lacks physical buttons, which can be a bit of a challenge for some drivers. Overall, the G20 BMW M340i xDrive is a great car that is worth considering if you are in the market for a new vehicle.
A Well-Rounded Car
The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is a well-rounded car that offers the best of both worlds, combining luxury and performance. While many cars in this segment force drivers to make compromises, the M340i xDrive stands out as a versatile option that can handle both city driving and track days with ease.
One of the key advantages of the M340i xDrive is its balance between luxury and performance. Unlike dedicated sports cars, the M340i xDrive is comfortable and luxurious enough for daily driving. However, it’s also capable of delivering exhilarating performance when the driver wants to push the limits.
Compared to other cars in its segment, the M340i xDrive is also a great value. It’s the fastest sports sedan in its class, yet it’s priced at a reasonable $59,600. This makes it a smart choice for drivers who want a high-performance car without breaking the bank.
Overall, the 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is an excellent choice for drivers who want a well-rounded car that can handle anything from daily commutes to track days. With its combination of luxury, performance, and value, it’s a standout option in its segment.
The Glorious B58 Engine
The B58 engine is a 3.0-liter inline-six turbocharged engine that powers the 2024 BMW M340i. It is a popular engine due to its impressive power delivery, reliability, and fuel efficiency. The engine is code-named B58 and features a close-deck block and forged crankshaft, making it reliable and durable. Despite producing 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque, the engine is understressed.
Tuners have been able to add over 600 horsepower to this engine with just a software tune, but this could affect its long-term reliability. The B58 engine has become so popular that Toyota opted to use it in their new Supra as a successor to the legendary 2JZ from the Mark IV Supra.
The engine’s power delivery is impressive, and the M340i xDrive model can hit 0 to 60 miles per hour in a claimed 4.1 seconds. However, some automotive publications have achieved speeds below four seconds. The B58 engine’s fuel efficiency is also noteworthy, making it a popular choice among car enthusiasts.
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Overall, the B58 engine has become a favorite among car enthusiasts due to its impressive performance, reliability, and fuel efficiency.
Mild Hybrid Now Integrated Within The Transmission
The 2021 BMW M340i engine has been equipped with a mild hybrid system that is integrated directly into the ZF 8-speed automatic transmission. This mild hybrid system helps improve fuel efficiency without adding much weight or complexity. It is not a full hybrid system that can run on electric power alone, but it does help reduce fuel consumption by shutting down the engine whenever possible.
The mild hybrid system is activated in two different scenarios. The first is when the car comes to a stop, such as at a stoplight. The engine is automatically turned off to prevent idling. This is not a new feature, but the 48V system used in this powertrain is incredibly quick to react and works seamlessly. Unlike older stop-start systems, which were often rough and slow to react, the 48V system is so smooth that there is no need to deactivate it.
Impressive Fuel Economy
The mild hybrid system in the 2024 BMW M340i xDrive helps to improve efficiency by turning off the engine and allowing the car to coast while off throttle on the highway or approaching a stop light. A clutch pack disengages the engine from the transmission, which reduces speed loss from aerodynamic drag.
This mild hybrid system returns impressive fuel economy, surpassing the EPA ratings of 23 mpg city, 32 mpg highway, and 26 mpg combined. On highway driving, the author was able to achieve anywhere from 37 to 41 mpg during several commutes around Los Angeles. Overall, within 900 miles of driving, the author averaged an impressive 30 mpg.
It’s worth noting that the fuel economy achieved by the author may not be typical for all drivers. Driving habits, traffic conditions, and other factors can impact fuel efficiency. Nonetheless, the mild hybrid system in the 2024 BMW M340i xDrive offers an impressive balance of power and fuel efficiency.
A Proper Sportscar Through The Canyons
The BMW M340i xDrive is an impressive car that handles remarkably well. The reviewer had the chance to drive the car on some of Southern California’s best canyon roads that they have become very familiar with over the last several years. Despite this not being a full-fledged M car, it puts down a rapid pace. The car’s 225-width front tires and 255-width rear tires may seem small given the power output, but the Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires provided ample lateral grip.
The damper tuning on the M340i in Sport and Sport Plus modes is fairly stiff, but the rigidity of the chassis, in combination with excellent rebound and compression settings on the adjustable dampers, provided very competent and confidence-inspiring handling. The rear-biased xDrive does change the car’s overall handling at the limit when compared to the RWD model. While the RWD-only M340i can rotate wonderfully and provide some delightful oversteer when it’s wanted, the xDrive model has a slight hint of understeer. Though this makes the car feel stable under 9/10ths driving.
The reviewer mentions that it’s up to the driver to decide which driving characteristic they prefer, but they prefer the RWD model and feel. A small trade-off in acceleration gives not only better fuel economy but what they consider to be the ultimate job creator in driving: oversteer. If better pads, rotors, brake fluid, and coolant are added, the car can be used as a track car (as it is at BMW M Performance Driving Schools).
Overall, the BMW M340i xDrive is an impressive car that handles remarkably well on canyon roads. Despite not being a full-fledged M car, it puts down a rapid pace and provides ample lateral grip with its Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires. The damper tuning on the M340i in Sport and Sport Plus modes is fairly stiff but the chassis rigidity, in combination with excellent rebound and compression settings on the adjustable dampers, makes for very competent and confidence-inspiring handling.
iDrive 8 Is Not Ideal
The G20 LCI 3 Series comes equipped with iDrive 8, which dominates the interior with its large 15” central display and 12.3” driver’s display appearing as one curved unit. However, the lack of physical HVAC controls may be a drawback for some users. The display is incredibly bright during the day and can be dimmed enough at night that it does not impair driving in dark areas. The Harmon Kardon sound system is a great value for just $875 in the United States.
While the seats are comfortable, they may require some adjusting to feel okay. This is not an issue specific to the M340i, as many other BMW products outside of the three series have more comfortable lumbar support. Despite its impressive display and sound system, iDrive 8 may not be ideal for users who prefer physical controls or have specific ergonomic needs.
Should I Buy One?
The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is a car that does not have any noticeable downsides. It is good at everything, making it a great option for those who want a one-car solution for the enthusiast. The car offers a breadth of capability mixed with refinement and execution, which is something of brilliance. It is fun to drive on a backroad, comfortable and nice to live with on a daily basis, and still somehow, efficient.
The car offers 95% of the performance of the last F80 generation M3, mixed with 95% of the efficiency of the F30 330i. While it may not be the best at any one thing, it is one of the best buys for a one-car solution for the enthusiast. The car offers everything BMW does best in one car: Performance, luxury, and practicality.
The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is a great option for those who have $65,000 and can only own one new car to do everything and still find the joy of driving. It’s a car that offers a great balance of performance, luxury, and practicality. The car is efficient and fun to drive, making it a great option for those who want a car that can do everything.
2024 BMW M340i xDrive
8.1
The 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is an exceptional car that provides an excellent driving experience. Its exterior appeal and interior quality are rated at 8.5, while its steering feedback, performance, and handling are rated at 8 out of 10. Additionally, the car embodies the BMWness/Ultimate Driving Machine with a rating of 8. The price point, however, is rated at 7.5.
During a ten-day test drive, the car’s breadth of capability mixed with the refinement and execution was something of brilliance. There were no deep-rooted flaws or compromises that would be considered deal breakers, and nothing really bothered the driver to any great extent. Overall, the 2024 BMW M340i xDrive is a highly recommended car for those looking for a luxurious and high-performance driving experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Reset the Automatic Start-Stop System in a BMW?
To reset the automatic start-stop system in a BMW, the driver must press the brake pedal and hold it down for at least two seconds. This will reset the system and it will turn on again when the driver releases the brake pedal.
What Could be Causing the Automatic Start-Stop Feature to Malfunction in a BMW?
Several factors could cause the automatic start-stop feature to malfunction in a BMW, including low battery voltage, a malfunctioning brake switch, or a faulty starter motor. It is recommended to take the vehicle to an authorized BMW service center for diagnosis and repair.
Is it Possible to Disable the Automatic Start-Stop Function Permanently in a BMW Vehicle?
Yes, it is possible to disable the automatic start-stop function permanently in a BMW vehicle. This can be done through coding or programming the vehicle’s software. It is recommended to consult with an authorized BMW service center or a qualified technician to perform this modification.
What are the Steps to Deactivate the Auto Start-Stop in a BMW X5 Model Year 2024?
To deactivate the auto start-stop in a BMW X5 model year 2024, the driver must press the auto start-stop button located on the center console. This will turn off the feature until it is manually turned back on.
How to Activate the Auto Start-Stop Feature in a BMW 1 Series?
To activate the auto start-stop feature in a BMW 1 Series, the driver must press the brake pedal and come to a complete stop. The engine will automatically turn off and the feature will be activated. When the driver releases the brake pedal, the engine will start again.
Can the Stop/Start Feature be Turned Off in a BMW 5 Series, and if so, How?
Yes, the stop/start feature can be turned off in a BMW 5 Series. The driver can press the auto start-stop button located on the center console to turn off the feature. This will disable the feature until it is manually turned back on.