Like the sedan segment itself, sports sedans are a dying breed. Only a handful of mid-size sedans, rear-wheel drive and fun to drive remain in the US market. Thankfully, BMW isn’t giving up on the segment it pretty much invented. The leading the 3-Series segment updated for 2023 with styling and features that keep its loyal buyers from getting lost The dark side of SUVs. I’ve just returned from the annual BMW Test Festival in Southern California, where the brand gathers journalists and cars for an update on all the new models. Here’s what you can expect from the 2023 3-Series.
2023 BMW 3-Series: Classic, Performance or M3-lite
For 2023, the 3-Series includes three powertrain options for the US market. We start with what BMW calls its core model, 330i. Power comes from a 255-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four (because remember, BMW’s model number no longer makes sense). That engine is only paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission – you can’t get gearshifts in a base 3-series these days. The 330i is the classic choice for those who just want a 3-Series sedan with no frills.
For those who want a little effectiveyou can choose plug-in hybrid 330e. The 2.0-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine produces 181 horsepower combined with a 107 horsepower electric motor for a total capacity of 288 horsepower. There is also a 12 kWh battery pack that will allow 330e to drive as far as 22 miles on electric range alone.
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The top of the 3 Series range is what I think of as “the M3 lite,” M340i. It is a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 382 hp. The big news for 2023 is the addition 48-volt mild hybrid system on the M340i, which is integrated directly into the eight-speed automatic transmission (again, the only transmission available). While it does offer some performance improvements and makes the engine stop/start system smoother, BMW says the main aim of the hybrid system here is to enhance overtaking power and acceleration. crossing speed.
Another plus: xDrive all-wheel drive is available with every powertrain in the 3-Series.
2023 BMW M340i: Not Seriously, It’s an M3 Lite
BMW threw me the keys to 2023 M340i and told me to have fun for a few hours driving in and around the San Bernardino National Forest. I wanted to see how the addition of a mild hybrid system affected this performance sedan’s handling.
The first thing you notice is how quiet the 2023 M340i is in normal driving. Exiting the hotel and stopping at a few lights, the hybrid setup blends seamlessly with the start/stop system. I usually have general hatred for these kinds of systems as they are often offensive and rough to engage. But I have to say, the M340i has one of the smoothest boot stops I’ve come across. I’ve never actually tried to deactivate it, this is a first for me.
When I reached the pass, I pressed the sport mode button to liven things up. I’m here to tell you, the M340i is great. Some BMW’s recent decision maybe seems to indicate that the brand has forgotten What does state-of-the-art driving mean, but the 2023 M340i dispels that fear. The chassis and the way the car responds to inputs are truly outstanding. I understand everything that’s going on from feedback through the steering wheel. I was confident enough to pull through bends 15-20 mph faster and didn’t wonder if the front end would drift without warning.
The mild-hybrid system acts almost like an always-boosted second turbocharger. Easily pass slow-moving vehicles on two-lane roads. And note discharge is glory. BMW’s straight six-wheeler has always had a great vocal, but I didn’t expect it to pop out and slam when downshifting. It’s an interesting touch, especially on a hybrid, and it’s sure to turn heads. The level of performance is so high, a few years ago it could have been an M3.
2023 BMW 3-Series: New styling and features
The 3-Series receives several styling and technology updates for 2023. The 330i and 330e sport new bumpers at the front and rear, with glossy black air intakes in front of the front wheels; slimmer headlights and turn signals with more aggressive styling.
The 2023 330i and 330e are available with the M Sport appearance package. You get M’s signature front and rear aprons, 19-inch alloy wheels and a honeycomb motif on the front grille. It’s not just all programming – the M Sport package offers adaptive suspension and a sporty steering system.
You’ll really be able to distinguish the 2023 M340i from the rest of the lineup, thanks to its more aggressive styling all around, from the mesh design on the kidney grilles to the M- and 18-inch (or optional) dedicated exhaust outlets. choose 19-inch) Dual 5-spoke wheels.
The interior has also been redesigned. As with so many new vehicles, the 3-Series removes the separate instrument cluster and infotainment screens and replaces them with a large curved dashboard that houses two screens. BMW has updated the 3-Series’ infotainment system with the latest iDrive 8 operating system, which runs on a 14.9-inch screen, along with a 12.3-inch screen behind the steering wheel. Thinner air vents and small, switch-like gear selectors help make the interior more sleek and minimalist.
The BMW 3-Series 2023 is currently on sale. The base spec 330i starts at $43,295; 330e adds $1,000. You pay to play when it comes to the M340i, which starts at $55,845. Earn $2,000 to add xDrive all-wheel drive to any trim. All prices listed here include BMW’s up to $995 fee.
It’s great to see BMW continuing to exist as a sports sedan with the 3-Series. With The EV revolution is coming here’s hoping an all-electric 3-Series in the future can continue that endeavor. Up until that point, the 2023 3-Series has done a great job of living up to the brand’s legend.
