The barnstorming new 2022 BMW M340d xDrive was set to be unveiled at the Geneva motor show in March by BMW, but we all know that it didn’t happen. So with very little in the way of fanfare, the new M340d xDrive joins the petrol M340i xDrive in crowning the 3 Series line-up. Featuring 48-volt mild hybrid technology, the 3.0-litre turbocharged diesel engine develops 335bhp and 516lb ft of torque. The top speed is electronically limited at 155mph, however, acceleration to 62mph takes just 4.6 seconds for the saloon, and 0.2 of a second longer for the Touring. Priced at £49,505 for the saloon, CO2 emissions are 168g/km and fuel economy on the new WLTP combined cycle is 44.1mpg. The Touring estate costs £50,420, with CO2 emissions of 173g/km and 42.8mpg possible on the combined testing regime.
Remarkably, the newcomers cost just £1,040 more than the less powerful 330d xDrive M Sport Plus Edition, yet boasts an extra 74bhp (plus 11bhp from the 48-volt mild hybrid system), generates an additional 88lb ft of torque and can reach 62mph in half a second faster (0.6 of a second on the Touring). Additional equipment includes 19-inch bi-colour alloy wheels, Cerium grey detailing to the exterior, twin square exhaust tailpipes, an instrument panel finished in faux leather, uprated speakers, an M rear spoiler and metallic paintwork. Available to order now, the M340d xDrive arrives at BMW showrooms this summer.
