BMW 340i M Sport F30: Specs & Performance

by Alex Braham 42 views

Hey guys! Let's dive deep into the BMW 340i M Sport F30, a ride that perfectly blends luxury with thrilling performance. If you're a car enthusiast or just curious about what makes this model tick, you're in the right place. We'll break down the specs, performance, and everything else that makes the 340i M Sport F30 a standout in its class.

Overview of the BMW 340i M Sport F30

The BMW 340i M Sport F30 is a variant of the BMW 3 Series (F30) that was produced from 2015 to 2019. It is known for its powerful engine, sporty handling, and luxurious features. The M Sport package adds several aesthetic and performance enhancements, making it an even more desirable option for driving enthusiasts.

The F30 generation of the 3 Series, in general, marked a significant step forward in terms of technology and driving dynamics. The 340i, with its powerful engine and refined handling, became a favorite among those seeking a balance between everyday usability and exhilarating performance. The M Sport package elevates this experience, offering a more aggressive look and enhanced driving dynamics.

Why is the BMW 340i M Sport F30 so popular? It's simple. It gives you a taste of BMW's legendary performance without sacrificing comfort and practicality. Whether you're cruising down the highway or tackling twisty back roads, the 340i M Sport F30 delivers an engaging and enjoyable driving experience. This model stands out because it successfully combines the practicality needed for daily use with the exhilarating performance desired by car enthusiasts. Its reputation for reliability and performance has cemented its place as a sought-after vehicle in the sports sedan market.

Engine and Performance Specs

Let's get into the heart of the beast – the engine! The BMW 340i M Sport F30 is equipped with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine. This isn't just any engine; it's a masterpiece of engineering that delivers smooth power and instant throttle response.

  • Engine Type: 3.0L Turbocharged Inline-Six (B58)
  • Horsepower: 320 hp (239 kW)
  • Torque: 330 lb-ft (447 Nm)
  • 0-60 mph: Approximately 4.8 seconds
  • Top Speed: 155 mph (electronically limited)

The B58 engine is renowned for its responsiveness and refinement. Unlike some turbocharged engines that suffer from noticeable lag, the B58 delivers power in a linear and predictable manner. This makes the 340i M Sport F30 incredibly fun to drive in various conditions. This engine is a key reason why the 340i M Sport F30 is so highly regarded by enthusiasts, as it offers a significant performance upgrade over the base models while maintaining the smooth and refined character that BMW is known for. The strong torque output ensures brisk acceleration from any speed, making it equally capable on the open highway and around town.

Beyond the raw numbers, the driving experience is enhanced by the engine's sound. The inline-six produces a pleasing growl that adds to the overall sense of excitement. BMW's engineers have carefully tuned the exhaust system to deliver a sporty note without being overly intrusive, making it a car that you'll enjoy listening to as much as driving. The combination of power, responsiveness, and sound makes the B58 engine a standout feature of the 340i M Sport F30.

Transmission and Drivetrain

The BMW 340i M Sport F30 typically comes with two transmission options: a 6-speed manual or an 8-speed automatic. Each offers a unique driving experience to cater to different preferences.

  • 6-Speed Manual: For the purists out there, the 6-speed manual transmission provides a direct and engaging connection to the engine. It allows for precise gear changes and greater control over the car's performance.
  • 8-Speed Automatic: The 8-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and quick shifts. It also features paddle shifters on the steering wheel, allowing you to manually select gears when desired.

As for the drivetrain, the 340i M Sport F30 is available in both rear-wheel drive (RWD) and xDrive all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. The RWD version offers a more traditional sports sedan experience, while the xDrive provides enhanced traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions.

The choice between the manual and automatic transmissions depends largely on personal preference. The manual is favored by enthusiasts who enjoy the added control and engagement, while the automatic is appreciated for its convenience and efficiency. The 8-speed automatic is particularly impressive, offering shifts that are both smooth and incredibly quick. It also contributes to improved fuel economy compared to the manual. The availability of both RWD and xDrive further broadens the appeal of the 340i M Sport F30. The RWD version is often chosen by those who prioritize the classic sports sedan feel, while the xDrive provides added confidence and security, especially in regions with challenging weather conditions. Ultimately, the combination of transmission and drivetrain options allows buyers to tailor the car to their specific needs and preferences.

Suspension and Handling

The suspension and handling of the BMW 340i M Sport F30 are where it truly shines. The M Sport package includes a sport-tuned suspension that enhances the car's agility and responsiveness. This means you get a car that feels planted and confident in corners, with minimal body roll.

Key features include:

  • Adaptive M Suspension (Optional): This system allows you to adjust the suspension settings to suit your driving style and road conditions. Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ modes are available.
  • Variable Sport Steering: This system adjusts the steering ratio based on the car's speed, making it easier to maneuver at low speeds and more stable at high speeds.
  • M Sport Brakes: These offer improved stopping power and heat resistance compared to the standard brakes.

The result is a car that feels incredibly balanced and composed, whether you're navigating city streets or pushing it hard on a track. The M Sport suspension lowers the ride height, reducing body roll and improving the car's center of gravity. This translates to sharper turn-in and more precise handling. The optional Adaptive M Suspension takes this a step further, allowing you to fine-tune the ride quality to your liking. In Comfort mode, the suspension softens, providing a more compliant ride on rough roads. In Sport and Sport+ modes, the suspension firms up, delivering maximum control and feedback. The Variable Sport Steering enhances the driving experience by providing a more direct and responsive feel. At low speeds, the steering is light and easy, making parking and maneuvering a breeze. At higher speeds, the steering firms up, providing greater stability and control. The M Sport Brakes are a welcome addition, providing confident stopping power even under hard use. Their improved heat resistance ensures consistent performance, even after repeated braking. The combination of these features makes the 340i M Sport F30 a joy to drive, offering a level of agility and responsiveness that few cars in its class can match.

Interior and Technology

Stepping inside the BMW 340i M Sport F30, you're greeted with a blend of luxury and sporty design. The interior is driver-focused, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The M Sport package adds unique touches such as sport seats, an M steering wheel, and M-specific trim.

Some key interior features include:

  • Sport Seats: These seats offer excellent support and bolstering, keeping you firmly in place during spirited driving.
  • M Steering Wheel: The M steering wheel is thicker and more contoured than the standard wheel, providing a more comfortable and secure grip.
  • iDrive Infotainment System: BMW's iDrive system is intuitive and easy to use. It features a central display screen and a rotary controller, allowing you to access navigation, audio, and other vehicle functions.
  • Premium Materials: The interior is trimmed with high-quality materials such as leather, aluminum, and wood.

In terms of technology, the 340i M Sport F30 offers a range of advanced features, including:

  • Navigation System: The navigation system provides clear and accurate directions, helping you reach your destination with ease.
  • Harman Kardon Sound System (Optional): This premium sound system delivers exceptional audio quality.
  • Head-Up Display (Optional): The head-up display projects important information onto the windshield, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road.
  • Driver Assistance Systems: These systems include features such as lane departure warning, forward collision warning, and adaptive cruise control.

The interior of the 340i M Sport F30 is designed to provide a comfortable and engaging driving experience. The sport seats are a standout feature, offering excellent support and adjustability. The M steering wheel feels great in your hands, providing a confident grip. The iDrive infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, allowing you to control various vehicle functions with ease. The premium materials used throughout the interior add a touch of luxury. The technology features further enhance the driving experience. The navigation system is accurate and reliable, while the Harman Kardon sound system delivers exceptional audio quality. The head-up display is a useful feature, allowing you to keep your eyes on the road while still being aware of important information. The driver assistance systems provide an added layer of safety and convenience. Overall, the interior and technology of the 340i M Sport F30 are well-designed and executed, providing a comfortable, engaging, and technologically advanced driving experience.

Exterior Design and Features

The exterior of the BMW 340i M Sport F30 is both sporty and elegant. The M Sport package adds aggressive styling cues such as a unique front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser.

Key exterior features include:

  • M Sport Body Kit: This includes a more aggressive front bumper, side skirts, and rear diffuser, giving the car a sportier look.
  • Sport Suspension: The M Sport suspension lowers the car's ride height, improving its stance and handling.
  • M Wheels: The M Sport package includes unique alloy wheel designs that complement the car's sporty appearance.
  • Adaptive LED Headlights: These headlights provide excellent visibility and automatically adjust to changing road conditions.

The M Sport body kit gives the 340i a more aggressive and athletic appearance. The unique front bumper features larger air intakes, improving airflow to the engine and brakes. The side skirts add a sleek and aerodynamic touch, while the rear diffuser enhances the car's sporty look. The sport suspension lowers the car's ride height, giving it a more planted and aggressive stance. This also improves handling by lowering the car's center of gravity. The M wheels are another standout feature, with unique designs that complement the car's sporty appearance. The adaptive LED headlights provide excellent visibility, automatically adjusting to changing road conditions. This ensures that you always have the best possible view of the road ahead. The combination of these features makes the 340i M Sport F30 a visually striking car. It's a car that looks fast even when it's standing still, and its sporty appearance is a perfect match for its performance capabilities. The exterior design is both functional and stylish, enhancing the car's aerodynamics and providing a distinctive look that sets it apart from other models.

Conclusion

The BMW 340i M Sport F30 is a well-rounded sports sedan that offers a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and practicality. With its powerful engine, sporty handling, and stylish design, it's a car that's sure to please driving enthusiasts. Whether you're looking for a fun daily driver or a capable weekend track car, the 340i M Sport F30 is definitely worth considering.

So, there you have it! The BMW 340i M Sport F30 is a fantastic car with a lot to offer. If you're in the market for a sporty and luxurious sedan, be sure to give this one a look. You won't be disappointed! Happy driving, folks!