The BMW 3 Series has been floundering these past few years as the ultimate driving machine, with Cadillac, Mercedes and the soon to be launched New A4 nipping at it’s heels. The 2016 BMW 3 Series has had a mid cycle refresh and offers 2 new versions:

First, there’s the new 340i with the B58 turbocharged, inline-six engine to replace the 335i. Displacement remains at 3.0-liters, but the latest engine makes 320 horsepower and 330 pound-feet of torque – gains of 20 hp and 30 lb-ft over the outgoing model. BMW estimates the 340i can reach 60 in 4.8 seconds with the standard eight-speed automatic or in 4.6 seconds with xDrive. A six-speed manual is also available as a no-cost option.

Sometime in 2016, BMW will add a plug-in hybrid, the 330e. It will be fitted with a four-cylinder gasoline engine and an electric motor; it replaces the powerful but unsuccessful ActiveHybrid 3, which used a six-cylinder as the engine of its powertrain. The 330e is expected to produce a combined output of 250 horsepower and 310 lb-ft, giving it a zero-to-60 time of 6.1 seconds. The hybrid also boasts a 22-mile range in EV mode.

new front struts, rear dampers, and retuned electric power steering. There’s also a Track Handling Package for gas-fueled models that combines Variable Sport Steering, Adaptive M Suspension and M Sport Brakes with high-temperature pads.

New LED daytime driving lights are standard on the 340i and an option on the rest of the range. The interior, meanwhile, makes an even classier impression with new materials and additional chrome highlights for the controls, air vents and central control panel. The newly crafted centre console with a sliding cover for the cupholders enables better use of the storage surfaces forward of the gearshift lever.

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