New BMW M340d xDrive Saloon and Touring revealed with 516lb ft of torque
BMW has released its range-topping black pump 3-series models, with a predictably impressive torque figure
The petrol-powered G20 M340i is already on sale in the UK, but now BMW has released its range-topping diesel to sit alongside it. Available in both saloon and estate forms, the new M340d will make its debut at the Geneva motor show, and is set to hit showrooms in April 2020.
The most powerful diesel-powered 3-series in the marque’s range, the 340d’s 3-litre turbocharged in-line six provides 335bhp and a colossal 516lb ft of torque, matching the output of its arch-rival, the Audi S4 TDI. Standstill to 62mph for the saloon comes just two-tenths later than its petrol-powered counterpart, at 4.6sec – the estate completes the sprint in 4.8sec, with both reaching a 155mph top speed.
As if the power figures don’t provide enough performance, a 48V mild-hybrid system utilises a 10bhp electric motor to help fill the gaps the engine leaves – it also improves efficiency, allowing for smoother start-stop operation, engine-off coasting and more.
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Though it might not be a full-fat M-car, an M Sport exhaust system, uprated M Sport suspension, four-piston 348mm front, single-piston 345mm rear M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential all come fitted as standard. At a cost, the M Sports Package adds a raft of additional features, including adaptive sports suspension which drops ride height by 10mm.
Power is sent to the ground through an eight-speed automatic gearbox and the marque’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, allowing the driver to send power to whichever axle they desire. The system will send traction to wherever it’s needed most in normal modes, but switches to a rear-biased set-up in Sport+.
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Eighteen-inch M sport wheels and more aggressive exterior trim comes as standard, but 19-inch wheels can be had at a cost. Inside, buyers receive BMW’s latest 8.8-inch infotainment system, digital cockpit, ambient lighting, a handful of driver assistance systems and more.
Pricing is yet to be announced.
