Launched: BMW 3 Series M340i xDrive & 330Li LCI – From RM325,800

BMW Malaysia’s facelifted 3 Series line-up grew a bit further today, as the Bavarian marque officially launched the BMW 3 Series M340i xDrive and BMW 330Li models. Locally-assembled (CKD) in BMW Inokom Kulim plant, both models feature an M Sport trim each, with the sportier M340i getting the M Sport Pro version.

Just like the facelifted 3 Series models launched earlier this year, the Life Cycle Impulse (LCI) treatment grants both the M340i and 330Li with mild design updates for both interior and exterior.

Starting off with the range-topping M340i xDrive, the ‘poor-man’s M3’ now comes with a sportier M Sport Pro variant that adds more M performance parts to it. In its standard form, the M340i xDrive sports BMW’s iconic kidney grille, now with a hexagonal pattern that is distinct compared to other 3 Series models. Said grille is flanked by redesigned adaptive LED headlights – just like all other 3 Series LCI models.

Moving to the side, the M340i xDrive features a slew of M-badged parts, including the M-specific side mirrors, as well as the massive 19-inch M Light Alloy wheels with double-spoke style, finished in M’s signature two-tone 791 M Bicolour. Hiding behind said alloys are M Sport Brakes, with its callipers draped in Blue High-Gloss finish.

At the rear, the M340i xDrive sports a black-hued rear diffuser – part of the M Aerodynamics Package that comes standard with the model. Also standard is the M High-Gloss Shadowline package, which grants the car with gloss-black finishings in few parts and trims.

Opting for the up-specced M Sport Pro version will grant the M340i xDrive with further M performance parts. Said parts include the M Sport Brake callipers in High-Gloss Red hue, extended M High-Gloss Shadowline package, M Rear Spoiler in Black Sapphire, as well as 19-inch M Light Alloy wheels, now with 792 M Bicolour Jet Black two-tone finish.

Like the facelifted 3 Series 330i, the new 330Li LCI M Sport also features mildly-refreshed exterior design. With the new, slimmer auto LED headlights with High-Beam Assist, plus the redesigned front bumper that features more pronounced air intake opening, the 330Li looks more rugged and less limousine-esque, even with its extended wheelbase – 110 MM longer than the standard 330i.

The 330Li will get the smaller, yet equally-sporty 18-inch M Alloy Wheels with double-spoke style, finished in 848 M Bicolour two-tone hue. Just like the rest of the facelifted 3 Series models, the 330Li M Sport is also being granted with the M Aerodynamics package and M High-Gloss Shadowline with extended contents.

On board, all 3 Series LCI models come standard with BMW’s latest BMW Curved Display, featuring a 12.3-inch driver’s display and 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment display – powered by BMW OS8.

For the sportier M340i xDrive, the cabin is laden with M parts, including the M Headliner Anthracite, Aluminium Rhombicle Anthracite M Interior Trim, as well as M Leather Steering Wheel, wrapped in supple Walknappa leather. To match these sporty bits, the M340i also features tech amenities like auto climate control, ambient lighting, electric glass roof, plus a Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The M Sport Pro version only adds the iconic M colour-lined M seat belts, on top of said equipment.

For the 330Li M Sport, the cabin is furnished with Interior Trim Finishers Combination Back High-Gloss/Aluminium, Galvanic embellishers for controls, Instrument Panel in Sensatec, and a panorama glass roof as standard. Meanwhile, the M Sport treatment garners it with sporty bits like M Leather Steering Wheel, as well as M Headliner Anthracite.

Other interior features of the New BMW 330Li M Sport are the Storage Compartment Package, three-zone automatic air conditioning, as well as ambient lighting.

Under the hood, the M340i xDrie still employs the same 3.0-litre straight-six mill rated at 387 HP and 500 NM – the same engine used in the Toyota GR Supra. Mated with an 8-speed automatic gearbox, the M340i is capable of despatching from nought to 100 KM/H in just 4.4 seconds, en route to its capped top speed of 250 KM/H. As the name suggests, the M340i xDrive sports BMW’s signature xDrive all-wheel drive system, plus the M Sport Differential and Adaptive M suspension.

In spite of boasting a longer wheelbase, the 330Li still harnesses the same 2.0-litre 4-cyl turbocharged engine – also paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Unlike the baby M3 however, the 330Li is a rear-wheel drive car.

The 2023 BMW 3 Series M340i xDrive LCI starts at RM391,800, while opting for the M Sport Pro package will further boost its price tag to RM396,800. Meanwhile, the 2023 BMW 3 Series 330Li LCI M Sport commands a RM325,800 price tag – about RM8,000 more expensive than its smaller 330i twin.

All prices displayed are on-the-road prices, excluding insurances. Said prices are inclusive of BMW Group Malaysia’s Premium Ownership Experience which includes a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty with free scheduled service programme, BMW Roadside Assistance and Accident hotline, the BMW Group Loyalty+ Mobile App with BMW Privileges Card, as well as BMW Service Online.