In this article…
Discover the distinctive characteristics of BMW 3 Series trims in our deep dive. From the exhilarating base Sport model to the uncaged beast of the M3.
The BMW 3 Series is a range that combines elegance, performance, and sheer driving pleasure in a way that only BMW can. Its long-standing presence at the top of the estate saloon game has resulted in continued success and acclaim that seems to be everlasting.
But with so many trims, it can be hard to parse through the details and get to what each one is designed for. That’s why in this article, we will take a deep dive into the various trims available for the BMW 3 Series, unravelling their distinctive characteristics and helping you make an informed decision.
BMW 3 Series Sport
BMW 3 Series Sport
The BMW 3 Series Sport is the base model of the current lineup and is an exceptional machine in its own right. Containing over 180bhp, it can reach 0-60mph in just over seven seconds. Its gearshift paddles make the gear changes that much more potent, and with rear-wheel drive, it handles corners to a thrilling degree. This is a remarkable part of the BMW range but is just the beginning of the 3 Series.
BMW M3
Now, the lineup enters into BMW’s lauded M Series, where the chauffeur gloves come off and the inner beast becomes uncaged. The BMW M3 has been a side model of the 3 Series for four decades and has resulted in some of the most adored sports saloons of all time. Getting the brand new BMW M3 already puts you in a long lineage of exceptional sports cars.
Compared to the original 3 Series, the new M3 adds twice the brake horsepower to over 500bhp and shortens the acceleration from 0-60mph to just under four seconds. The silky seats of the original are swapped out for upholstered sports seats, but you’ll find the comfort equipment remains intact in this version.
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BMW M340i
The BMW M340i tones down the extremity of the engine to something more usable day-to-day, replacing the turbocharged V8 engine and a still-turbocharged V6. The aggressive stylings have been given more subtlety, as has the sport-tuned suspension. It possibly resembles the 3 Series more, but still has a menace that the original 3 Series does not.
The BMW M340i Touring is a particularly popular model for its extra functionality, upping the boot space and evolving the interior space.
BMW M340d
Only a letter separates the M340i and M340d, which indicates how fine the margins are between the two. However, they differ most in the powertrain, as the M340d uses diesel as opposed to the petrol-powered M340i. This makes it the choice for those who factor fuel economy into their decision-making.
BMW M340i xDrive
A slightly more advanced upgrade, the BMW M340i xDrive is a combo of sportiness, comfort and practicality for everyday use. It features BMW M’s xDrive is a vastly intelligent all-wheel drive system that will respond to road surfaces of all natures to make your drive as comfortable as possible. For example, activating a dynamic stability control in slippery, icy or muddy conditions. It’s a subtle enhancement that may not be flashy but will improve your experience greatly as time goes on.
BMW M340d xDrive
Finally, you can also get the BMW M340d with xDrive, too. This feature pairs superbly with the BMW 3 Series M340d xDrive Touring version, making for one of the most relaxing and brow-soothing drives you can hope to find today.
If any of these BMW 3 Series trims has ignited your interest, consider what it would be like to drive one during the best years of its life for a fraction of the price. Leasing is a great way to have a brand new car for a few years without being saddled with it during its later, less reliable years, and at cars2buy, we have the UK’s most sought-after selection of BMW 3 Series lease deals.
Looking online is a chore when you have to compare lease offers on many different websites, but our transparent service is about doing that hard work for you and allowing you to find the best BMW 3 Series lease deal for you from verified and trusted leasing partners, no matter what trim you’re searching for. Search, filter and compare our selection today and you’ll be ahead of the pack on your way towards a brand-new BMW 3 Series or M3 lease.
