BMW M340i G20
2019-2024
The M340i represents BMW's mastery of the performance sedan formula, delivering M-adjacent thrills with refined everyday manners. It's the car that proves you don't need to sacrifice comfort for excitement.
Quick Take
The BMW M340i G20 represents the sweet spot in BMW's 3-Series lineup, offering near-M3 performance with daily usability. It features BMW's refined B58 twin-turbo inline-six engine paired with xDrive all-wheel drive for exceptional year-round performance.
Best For
Key Strength
B58 Engine Excellence
Watch For
Sound Character
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Building on decades of 3-Series excellence, the G20 M340i continues BMW's tradition of creating the benchmark sport sedan. It bridges the gap between the standard 330i and the hardcore M3, carrying forward the legacy of balanced performance.
Design Philosophy
BMW designed the M340i to be the perfect daily driver for enthusiasts who want serious performance without track-focused compromises. Every element prioritizes the balance between spirited driving dynamics and real-world usability.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The B58 twin-turbo inline-six is a masterpiece of modern engineering, delivering smooth, linear power with impressive torque throughout the rev range. It provides immediate throttle response while maintaining the refined character BMW engines are known for.
Chassis Dynamics
The M340i's chassis strikes an exceptional balance between comfort and sportiness, with adaptive suspension that can transform from compliant cruiser to sharp corner-carver. The xDrive system provides confidence-inspiring traction while maintaining a rear-biased feel that preserves BMW's driving character.
Sound Signature
The B58 produces a refined inline-six growl that's sophisticated yet engaging. It's sporty enough to remind you of the performance potential while remaining civilized for daily commuting.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The twin-scroll turbocharged inline-six delivers 382hp with incredible smoothness and responsiveness. BMW's B58 is widely regarded as one of the best engines of the modern era, offering both reliability and enormous tuning potential with simple modifications yielding 450+ horsepower.
Unlike hardcore M cars, the M340i strikes an exceptional balance between performance and comfort. The adaptive suspension provides excellent ride quality in Comfort mode while still delivering sharp handling when pushed, making it equally at home in traffic or on back roads.
Honest Tradeoffs
While the B58 sounds good, it lacks the distinctive growl of BMW's naturally aspirated sixes or the drama of a proper M car. The factory exhaust is quite restrained, requiring aftermarket solutions for those wanting more acoustic excitement.
The G20's advanced electronics and multiple driving modes can feel overwhelming to some drivers. The steering feel, while precise, lacks some of the analog connection that enthusiasts crave from older BMWs.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for professionals who want a premium sedan that can handle both the daily commute and weekend canyon runs. It appeals to those who appreciate BMW's driving dynamics but need practical luxury.