BMW is introducing a new range topping M40d diesel variant into the range of its popular mid-size 3 Series.
Sitting in the same vein as the petrol M340i, the M340d becomes not only the most powerful diesel engine in the 3 Series line-up, but the punchiest diesel ever to be fitted under the bonnet of any generation of the nameplate.
Available in both saloon and ‘Touring’ (estate) guises, the M340d utilises a 3.0-litre straight-six unit producing 335bhp and 700Nm of torque. It rivals the new Audi S4, which now only features diesel engines, and also adopts 48V mild-hybrid technology to drive down CO2 emission emissions and increase fuel consumption.
It’s the first time an ‘M’ badge has been put officially on a diesel 3 Series, and this treatment and engine means that the model can sprint to 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds, or 0.2 seconds slower if you opt for the Touring.
However, thanks to the efficient engine technologies, BMW is claiming it can return more than 50mpg, along with CO2 emissions of just 139g/km.
Being an ‘M’ model, the M340d will sit close to the top of the 3 Series line-up and features a revised styling kit and Cerium Grey styling touches to separate it from the regular car. Alcantara upholstery features on the cabin, too.
See available 3 Series dealsThe new models will officially make their debut at next month’s Geneva Motor Show, before going on sale in April. No prices have yet been announced.