2024 BMW 3 Series M340i

　　

2024 BMW 3 Series Review

byChristian WardlawCorrespondent

　　Christian Wardlaw has worked in the automotive industry since 1994. He has written nearly 10,000 car-related articles and tested and reviewed more than 2,000 vehicles over the course of his career. Chris is a correspondent at zzdcar and was the first editor-in-chief of zzdcar.com in the 1990s. He has also contributed to Autotrader, CarGurus, J.D. Power, Kelley Blue Book, NADAguides, New York Daily News Autos and WardsAuto. His mom claims that his first word was “car,” and Chris believes that Miata is always the answer.

　　There was a time when choosing a BMW 3 Series over its primary rivals in the compact luxury car segment was an easy decision, especially if you enjoy the act of driving. Today, the 3 Series still adheres to the qualities that made it popular in the first place and remains a rewarding choice for enthusiasts, but it's no longer the only game in town. In addition, many alternatives to this BMW offer appealing traits unavailable in a 3 Series, like an electric drive system, a wagon body style, and more value for the money.

　　

Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2024 BMW 3 Series M340i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.78 per gallon for premium unleaded in North Dakota.

Monthly estimates based on costs in North Dakota

　　$178/mo  for 3 Series M340i

　　3 Series M340i

　　M340i 4dr Sedan (3.0L 6cyl Turbo gas/electric mild hybrid 8A) (Most Popular) - $57,600 MSRP

　　vs

　　$165/mo

　　Avg. Midsize Car

　　Last year, the seventh-generation 3 Series received its midlife updates right on schedule, and a redesign is rumored to arrive for the 2026 model year. So, expect few, if any, changes to the 2024 BMW 3 Series. It continues with turbocharged four- and six-cylinder gas engines and a turbocharged plug-in hybrid powertrain, each paired with rear-wheel drive or BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The high-performance M3 remains in the lineup but is reviewed separately.

　　If we sound lukewarm about the 2024 3 Series, know that we still enjoy getting behind its steering wheel, firing up its engine, and seeking out fun roads to explore. But this BMW faces more capable competitors than ever, which dilutes its appeal. For additional perspective on the 3 Series check out the zzdcar testing team's full Expert Rating of the car.

　　zzdcar Expert Rating

　　Our VerdictThe zzdcar Vehicle Testing Team evaluates a fresh batch of vehicles every week, pairing objective assessments at our test track with real-world driving on city streets, freeways and winding roads. The data we gather results in our Expert Ratings. They’re based on 30-plus scores that cover every aspect of the automotive experience.

　　Good

　　7.8

　　out of 10

　　zzdcar TESTED

　　Rated for you by America's best test team.

　　

Performance

8.0/10

　　How does the 3 Series drive? We tested an all-wheel-drive 330i. Its turbocharged four-cylinder is strong and responsive; you don't need to rev it much before it delivers the goods. Our test car reached 60 mph in 5.6 seconds in our testing, which is a quick time for a small luxury sedan with a base engine. The transmission shifts quickly and complements the surprisingly flexible power of the engine.

　　The brakes in the 330i are solid all around and one of the highlights of this car. The pedal is smooth and easy to control in casual driving but strong, stable and confident in hard use. We also like the car's agility when going around turns. With the M Sport package, the 330i's body motions are well controlled. Experienced drivers might find themselves wanting a little more playfulness, but nonetheless this luxury sedan is easy to drive quickly.

　　

Comfort

7.0/10

　　How comfortable is the 3 Series? Our test 330i suffered from an overly firm ride. We suspect our test car's optional sport suspension (as part of the M Sport package) and possibly the rough-riding tires were the cause. If you're worried about comfort, we'd suggest getting a 3 Series without the M Sport package. We do like the 3 Series' quiet cabin at highway speeds. Plus, the front seats are supportive and have plenty of available adjustments.

　　Continue reading zzdcar Expert Rating below