The 3-Series is going to enter its 5th model year this year. Check out what changes are received by the top-range 2023 BMW M340 below.
In this era where the rising reign of crossovers is increasingly eclipsing sedans, it’s becoming harder for the latter to stay relevant. However, the BMW 3-Series has been countering the threat of SUVs by offering a sensible sedan and managing to combine performance, luxury, comfort, and appearance into a single package. See what the upcoming top-range trim of the 3-Series, the 2023 BMW M340, has to offer to retain its prime position amid the automobile industry competition.
Unchanged Powertrain of the 2023 BMW M340
For the 2023 model year, the 3-Series as a whole—meaning the M340 included—receives Life Cycles Impulse (LCI), which is just a fancy way for the German automaker to say mid-cycle refresher.
The best pieces of the car-like driving dynamics and powertrain remain untouched. The 2023 BMW M340 is still powered by the most capable engine across the range: a mid-hybrid 6-cylinder engine that has a 48-volt battery system. This powertrain generates up to 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. Each model in the 3-Series is equipped with an 8-speed automatic transmission and comes in the RWD variant as a standard with the option to upgrade to the xDrive AWD version. A range of driver assistance features and drive modes are maintained.
Exterior Updates and New Package
Contrary to its powertrain, the 2023 3-Series lineup receives plenty of upgrades design-wise. The most significant improvements come from the front fascia. The grille is refreshed by sporting a slightly smaller size, but plumper in the lower part compared to the prior model, and the chrome-accented perimeter is eliminated. The headlights are made slimmer which resembles the new BMW 4-Series and its tiny fang-shaped feature is removed as a reference to the legendary E46 model of the third generation of this series. Furthermore, the M-Sport variant’s bumper is now simplified.
Moving on to the rear section, the bumper is revised by gaining fake diffusers, which isn’t entirely terrible as it enhances the aggressive side of the modest-looking car. Major rear area adjustments are given to the 2023 BMW M340 compared to other trims, as it acquires new 18” M-performance double-spoke wheels.
The upcoming M340 trim, specifically, will receive the iconic BMW “M” badges to celebrate the Motorsports division’s 50th anniversary. The badges are placed on the wheel center caps, trunk, and hood. In addition, a new package dubbed M Sport Pro is now available by offering darkened features such as black-colored chrome exhaust tips, M brand-toned seatbelt stitching, package-exclusive that has red calipers, and a rear trunk spoiler. While two new exterior color options are offered across the range, adding this new package unlocks the new other two paint colors, namely M Brooklyn Gray and Skyscraper Gray.
Interior Upgrades and Redesigns
The 2023 BMW M340, along with other trims in the range, sports a newly designed dashboard that appears to be heavily inspired by the BMW iX—particularly the pair of curved screens (a 14.” Infotainment display and a 12.3” digital gauge cluster) located side by side. The massive infotainment display now operates on the manufacturer’s iDrive 8 which presents a tech-savvy appeal.
The old lever shift is eliminated, and replaced by a fresh toggle switch that can be found in the BMW iX as well. The more chiseled arrangement enhances the high-end feel of the M340’s dashboard even more. The fresh layout also provides revised and relocated center air ventilators.
The cabin’s materials are updated as well. Several comfort features are added such as a cloud-delivered navigation function and 3-zone automatic climate control. The wireless 5G access allows up to 10 devices to connect to the system simultaneously. Aside from these new features, the seat cover options stay the same as well as the interior dimensions of the car. That being said, there’s no doubt that these will help to boost the BMW sedan’s driving and riding experience.
Arrival Date and Price Details
The United States release date of the 2023 BMW M340 is July 2022 and the lineup of the 3-Series remains unchanged with three trims.
Every one of the models BMW for the next model year has been revealed to increase. As for the base M340, it will be sold at $54,850. Meanwhile, its xDrive counterpart sits at a $56,850 price point. Both experience a $150 increase compared to the last model year.