Technical Specifications
| Brand | BMW |
| Model | 3 Series |
| Generation | 3 Series Sedan (F30 LCI, Facelift 2015) |
| Type (Engine) | 340i (326 Hp) Steptronic |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban (NEDC) | 8.6-9.1 l/100 km (27.4 – 25.8 US mpg, 32.8 – 31 UK mpg, 11.6 – 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban (NEDC) | 5.3-5.5 l/100 km (44.4 – 42.8 US mpg, 53.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined (NEDC) | 6.5-6.8 l/100 km (36.2 – 34.6 US mpg, 43.5 – 41.5 UK mpg, 15.4 – 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions (NEDC) | 152-159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 5.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 4.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph), Electronically limited |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 4.7 kg/Hp, 211.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.4 kg/Nm, 292.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 326 Hp @ 5500-6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 108.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 450 Nm @ 1380-5000 rpm (331.9 lb.-ft. @ 1380-5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | B58B30A |
| Engine displacement | 2998 cm3 (182.95 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 94.6 mm (3.72 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 11:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Twin-power turbo, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | VALVETRONIC, Double-VANOS |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.8 l (8.24 US qt | 6.86 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 480 l (16.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (8%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4633 mm (182.4 in.) |
| Width | 1811 mm (71.3 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2031 mm (79.96 in.) |
| Height | 1429 mm (56.26 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1531 mm (60.28 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1572 mm (61.89 in.) |
| Front overhang | 779 mm (30.67 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1044 mm (41.1 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 140 mm (5.51 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.3 m (37.07 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission Steptronic |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut, Transverse stabilizer |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | Front wheel tires: 225/50 R17; 225/45 R18; 225/40 R19Rear wheel tires: 225/50 R17; 225/45 R18; 255/40 R18; 255/35 R19 |
| Wheel rims size | Front wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8J x 19Rear wheel rims: 7.5J x 17; 8J x 18; 8.5J x 18; 8.5J x 19 |
The 340i, introduced as part of the F30 LCI update in 2015, marked a return to inline-six cylinder engines for the 3 Series after a period dominated by turbocharged four-cylinders and the N55. It was designed to appeal to enthusiasts who desired a more refined and powerful driving experience than the 328i (later 330i) offered, without the outright track-focused nature of the M3. The LCI brought subtle styling revisions, updated interior technology, and crucially, the new B58 engine. This model year saw BMW refine its already successful formula, focusing on improving efficiency and responsiveness.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the 340i lies the B58B30A 3.0-liter inline-six engine. This engine is a significant departure from its predecessor, the N55, featuring a redesigned combustion chamber, improved turbocharging, and VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and lift. The B58 utilizes direct fuel injection, operating at a compression ratio of 11:1. The twin-scroll turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, delivers a broad torque curve and minimal turbo lag. The engine’s architecture is longitudinally mounted, driving the rear wheels. Paired with the B58 is the ZF 8HP70 Steptronic eight-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifts and efficiency. This transmission features adaptive learning, adjusting shift points based on driving style. The 8HP70 also includes a manual shift mode, allowing drivers to take more control.
Driving Characteristics
The 340i Steptronic delivers a refined yet engaging driving experience. The 450 Nm (331.9 lb-ft) of torque, available from a low 1380 rpm, provides strong acceleration in everyday driving situations. The Steptronic transmission contributes to this, offering quick and seamless gear changes. While not as aggressively tuned as the M3, the 340i offers ample power for spirited driving. The 0-60 mph time of around 4.8 seconds is indicative of its performance capabilities. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for both acceleration and fuel efficiency. Compared to the 328i/330i, the 340i offers a noticeably more powerful and responsive experience. The manual transmission variants of the 340i were favored by purists, but the Steptronic provides a convenient and efficient alternative.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 340i typically came well-equipped as standard. Interior features included leather upholstery, power-adjustable front seats with memory function, a premium sound system, and BMW’s iDrive infotainment system with a central display screen. Standard safety features included ABS, stability control, and multiple airbags. Optional extras included a head-up display, navigation system, adaptive cruise control, and a sunroof. Trim levels varied depending on the package selected, with options like the Luxury Line and M Sport package offering different exterior and interior styling cues. The M Sport package, in particular, added more aggressive bodywork, sport suspension, and upgraded brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The 340i utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a balance between comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to be slightly firmer than the 328i/330i, reflecting the 340i’s performance aspirations. Brakes consist of ventilated discs on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The electronic stability control system (DSC) helps to maintain control during challenging driving conditions. The 340i typically featured larger stabilizer bars compared to the lower-trim models, further enhancing handling performance.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 340i was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, refined driving experience, and comfortable interior. Compared to the 328i/330i, the 340i offered a significant performance upgrade, justifying its higher price tag. Fuel economy was respectable for a performance sedan, averaging around 36.2 – 34.6 US mpg in combined driving. Reliability has been generally good, although some owners have reported issues with the cooling system and oil leaks. The 340i offered a compelling alternative to rivals such as the Audi S4 and Mercedes-AMG C43.
Legacy
The B58 engine in the 340i has proven to be a robust and reliable powerplant. On the used car market, the 340i holds its value well, particularly well-maintained examples with low mileage. The combination of performance, luxury, and technology makes it a desirable choice for enthusiasts. The 340i represents a sweet spot in the F30 3 Series lineup, offering a compelling blend of practicality and driving enjoyment. Its engine is highly regarded and often sought after for engine swaps and modifications, demonstrating its enduring appeal within the BMW community.
