BMW has finally confirmed the expansion of its G20-generation 3 Series range with the reveal of the new, diesel-powered M340d xDrive sedan.

Joining the M340i xDrive under the M Performance banner (ahead of the arrival of the new M3), the fresh turbodiesel variant features an inline-six that BMW claims offers “exceptional pulling power while attaining similarly impressive levels of efficiency”.

The 3,0-litre oil-burner churns out 250 kW and 700 N.m (a little more than the 240 kW and 680 N.m offered by the equivalent unit in the locally built X3 M40d), facilitating a sprint from zero to 100 km/h in a claimed 4,6 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h. That peak twisting force arrives as early as 1 750 r/min.

Interestingly, the Munich-based firm has included a 48 V mild-hybrid system in a bid to both improve consumption and emissions, and lend the powerplant an “even greater sense of urgency” (the starter-generator features an electric boost effect that adds 8 kW for short bursts). BMW claims a combined fuel economy figure of 5,3 L/100 km.

An eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission (with a launch control function), model-specific chassis upgrades and rear-biased all-wheel drive ship standard, along with M Sport suspension (including a 10 mm drop in ride height), variable sport steering, M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential on the rear axle. A special exhaust system, meanwhile, generates what BMW describes as a “stirring soundtrack”.

Braking is taken care of by four-piston fixed callipers (with 348 mm discs) fore and single-piston floating items (with 345 mm discs) aft. The M340d xDrive sedan furthermore features 18‑inch M light-alloy wheels with mixed-size tyres measuring 225/45 R18 up front and 255/40 R18 at the rear.

Inside, you’ll find sports seats upholstered in an M-specific combination of Sensatec and Alcantara (with contrast quilting in blue) along with an anthracite-coloured headliner, an M leather-bound steering wheel and sports pedals.

It’s not yet clear whether the new M340d xDrive is destined for local shores. We’ll update this story once we hear back from BMW Group South Africa...

[UPDATE: BMW Group South Africa says it has "no plans" to introduce the M340d xDrive locally]

Original article from Car