BMW Rolls Out Sexy M340i Sedan With 382HP At 4.2 Seconds From 0 To 60

BMW has announced details on its new for 2020 M340i and M340i xDrive sedans. These cars are identical save for the xDrive being an all-wheel-drive, and the standard M340i being rear-wheel drive only. BMW says that the M340i xDrive will make its official world debut at the LA International Auto Show on November 30. Both M340i versions share the same updated 3.0L inline six-cylinder engine that uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger with an integral, compact, steel exhaust manifold.

The new turbocharger features impellers that are 25% lighter than the same parts in the preceding models; lighter internals means that the turbocharger can build boost pressure more rapidly for less turbo lag and improved power delivery. BMW says that the new inline six makes 382hp and 369 lb-ft of torque pushing the M340i to 60mph from a standstill in 4.2 seconds. BMW notes that in past models to get that sort of performance, buyers had to step up to BMW M cars like the M3 or M4.

BMW built the 3.0L engine with an aluminum crankcase and aluminum cylinder head for weight reduction, both BMW Valvetronic and double VANOS variable camshaft technology are integrated. To optimize the exhaust sound of the inline-six, BMW fitted the car with a dual pipe exhaust system, when in Sport and Sport + modes the exhaust system active valve can generate a more distinctive and sporty sound. The only thing about the M340i and M340i xDrive that enthusiasts might not like is that for 2020 there is no manual transmission option. The only transmission choice is an 8-speed Sport Steptronic transmission.

BMW does say that this version of the Steptronic is updated with a new, optimized hydraulic control system and shorter gearing for response and acceleration. The Steptronic also features Launch Control and has paddle shifters behind the steering wheel. Other standard features include an M Sport rear differential for traction, M Performance Chassis Technology, and an updated suspension system for 2020. BMW's tweaks with the M340i models means a "near perfect" 50:50 front/rear weight distribution. The standard suspension system is M Sport designed, and optional Adaptive M damping is available as well. For 2020 the M340i xDrive gets the standard M Sport suspension for the first time. BMW offers no details on pricing for either M340i version at this time, but the cars will launch in the summer of 2019. BMW showed off its all-new 2019 3-Series last month.