M340i Review: AWD vs RWD—Which BMW 3 Series Delivers More Thrills

If you’re looking for a luxury sedan that’s fast, stylish, and fun to drive, the BMW M340i should be at the top of your list. It’s a powerful version of the popular 3 Series and comes with everything BMW is known for—smooth performance, cutting-edge tech, and sleek design.

But when it comes to choosing your M340i, there’s a big decision to make: AWD vs RWD. Both options are great, but they offer different driving experiences. So, which one is more exciting to drive? Let’s take a closer look.

No matter which version of the BMW M340i you go with—AWD (xDrive) or RWD (rear-wheel drive)—you’re getting the same impressive engine. And trust us, it’s no ordinary engine.

The Heart of the M340i: Turbocharged Inline-Six

Both versions of the M340i are powered by a 3.0-liter BMW TwinPower Turbo inline-six engine. This means the engine has six cylinders in a row, with a single turbocharger and some smart technology that boosts performance and efficiency.

Here’s what that engine brings to the table:

• 382 horsepower, which gives the car serious muscle
• 369 lb-ft of torque, which is the force that gets you moving quickly from a stop
• Turbocharged design, meaning you get more power without needing a massive engine
• Smooth acceleration, thanks to its straight-six setup, which is well-balanced and known for running quietly and efficiently

Put simply, this engine makes the M340i feel quick, powerful, and refined all at once.

How Fast Is the M340i?

Speed is often one of the first things people ask about when talking performance cars. Here’s how both versions of the M340i stack up in terms of 0–60 mph times:

• AWD (xDrive) model:
  0 to 60 mph in about 4.1 seconds
  This version is slightly quicker off the line because the power is sent to all four wheels, giving it better traction during hard acceleration.
• RWD model:
  0 to 60 mph in about 4.4 seconds
  A bit slower, but still extremely fast. With less grip from the rear wheels only, it takes a tiny bit longer to reach highway speeds—but the difference is hardly noticeable unless you’re racing.

So, which is faster? Technically, the AWD model is quicker, but both will easily put a smile on your face when you press the gas pedal.

Why Do They Accelerate Differently If the Engines Are the Same?

Great question! This is where drivetrain layout comes into play.

• In the AWD M340i, power is delivered to all four wheels. That gives it extra grip and helps prevent wheel spin when you’re launching the car from a stop. It’s especially helpful in slippery conditions or if you’re going for a really fast start.
• In the RWD M340i, all the power goes to the back wheels. While this setup gives the car a more “classic” sporty feel, it doesn’t launch quite as quickly, especially if the road is slick.

It’s not that one version is more powerful—they both have the same engine. It’s all about how that power is used.

What About the Transmission?

Another important part of what’s under the hood is the 8-speed automatic transmission. This is the same for both AWD and RWD models.

Here’s what makes it great:

• Quick gear changes: The transmission shifts fast and smoothly, so the power keeps flowing when you accelerate.
• Sporty feel: When you’re driving in Sport mode, the transmission holds gears longer and responds more sharply to your inputs.
• Everyday comfort: In Comfort mode, it shifts smoothly and quietly, making it perfect for commuting or cruising.

You can also take control yourself with paddle shifters on the steering wheel—giving you more of a manual feel without using a clutch.

Is the M340i Engine Reliable?

BMW’s B58 engine—the one in the M340i—has earned a strong reputation for both performance and reliability. It’s been used in many other BMW models and even in some Toyota models (like the GR Supra).

Owners love it because:

• It’s powerful without being rough or noisy.
• It handles high mileage well when properly maintained.
• It offers great performance while still being refined enough for everyday driving.

Quick Recap: What Makes the M340i So Special Under the Hood?

• Same engine in both AWD and RWD
• Turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six
• 382 hp / 369 lb-ft of torque
• 8-speed automatic transmission
• 0–60 mph in 4.1 seconds (AWD) and 4.4 seconds (RWD)
• Smooth, fast, and fun to drive every day

Whether you go with xDrive or rear-wheel drive, the M340i’s engine is one of the best in its class. It’s powerful enough to keep up with sports cars but refined enough for your daily commute.

So if you’re wondering whether either version feels underpowered, the answer is definitely not. The real choice comes down to how you want that power delivered—through all four wheels or just the rear ones.

What is AWD (All-Wheel Drive)?

AWD, or all-wheel drive, means power is sent to all four wheels—not just the back ones. The car automatically decides how much power each wheel needs and adjusts as you drive. BMW calls this system xDrive in its vehicles.

Why choose AWD?

• More grip, especially in rain, snow, or on uneven roads
• Faster takeoff, because all four wheels are pushing the car forward
• More stability, especially when turning or changing lanes quickly
• You don’t have to think about it—the system works on its own

AWD is great for:

• Living in places with bad weather (rain, snow, ice)
• People who want extra confidence and safety while driving
• Everyday drivers who want solid traction in all conditions

Are there downsides to AWD?

• Slightly more weight, which can affect fuel economy and how the car feels to drive
• Slightly higher cost (both in the purchase price and maintenance)
• Less of that “classic BMW feel” some enthusiasts want

Still Not Sure Which One to Pick? Here Are Some Questions to Ask Yourself:

1. Where do you live?

• If you’re in a place that gets lots of snow or rain, AWD might be the better choice.
• If you’re in a dry, sunny area most of the year, RWD could be perfect.

2. What kind of driving do you enjoy?

• If you love sporty handling and want that classic BMW rear-wheel feel, go with RWD.
• If you prefer confidence and ease, especially in unpredictable weather, AWD is a smart move.

3. Will this be your daily driver?

• If you’ll be using the M340i every day, including in tough weather, AWD adds peace of mind.
• If you’re buying the car mainly for fun drives or weekend cruising, RWD might deliver a more exciting experience.

Quick Comparison: AWD vs RWD in the M340i

Feature	RWD (Rear-Wheel Drive)	AWD (All-Wheel Drive / xDrive)
Power goes to	Rear wheels only	All four wheels
Driving feel	More playful and sporty	More stable and confident
Best for	Dry roads, performance driving	Rain, snow, and everyday use
0–60 mph	About 4.4 seconds	About 4.1 seconds
Traction in bad weather	Lower, depends on tires	Higher, automatic adjustments
Fuel economy	Slightly better	Slightly lower due to extra weight

Bottom Line: It’s All About What You Want

Choosing between AWD and RWD for your M340i isn’t about which one is better. It’s about what fits you best.

• Want pure driving fun and a sporty, traditional feel? Go with RWD.
• Want extra grip, confidence, and year-round usability? AWD is your match.

No matter which one you choose, you’re getting a fast, luxurious, and well-balanced car that’s built to perform. The BMW M340i delivers on all fronts—it just depends on how you want the power to hit the pavement.

Handling: Which Feels Better on the Road?

If you live somewhere with snowy winters or rainy seasons, the AWD M340i might be the better choice. The xDrive system helps keep the car stable and makes driving in bad weather safer and easier. It also feels more planted when going around tight corners.

On the other hand, if you love twisty back roads or track days, the RWD M340i is the more exciting pick. It offers better steering feedback and feels more playful when you push it. You might even get a little tire spin when accelerating hard—something driving enthusiasts often enjoy.

Is There a Difference in Gas Mileage?

The AWD model is a little heavier—about 120 pounds more—so it uses slightly more gas.

Here’s what the EPA says:

• RWD M340i: 26 mpg combined (23 city / 32 highway)
• AWD M340i: 25 mpg combined (23 city / 31 highway)

The difference isn’t huge, but if every mile counts for you, it’s worth noting.

AWD vs RWD: Everyday Use

When it comes to daily driving, the good news is that both the AWD and RWD versions of the BMW M340i are comfortable, high-tech, and enjoyable to drive. You’re getting a luxury sports sedan either way, so you’ll enjoy smooth rides, responsive handling, and premium features every time you get behind the wheel.

But your driving environment and weather conditions can make a big difference in deciding which drivetrain is better for your everyday use.

What Makes the AWD (xDrive) Version Better for Everyday Use?

BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive system is designed to give you extra control and stability—especially when the road conditions aren’t perfect. That means if you drive in an area with unpredictable weather or slippery roads, the AWD model might make your daily drive easier and safer.

Here’s what AWD is especially good for:

• Rainy days: AWD helps prevent slipping and hydroplaning by sending power to all four wheels when needed.
• Snow and ice: AWD keeps the car steady and helps you stay in control when roads are slick.
• Gravel, dirt, or uneven roads: AWD gives you more traction when the pavement isn’t smooth or well-maintained.
• Hilly areas: With all four wheels working together, AWD helps you go up and down hills with more grip and confidence.

Why does this matter?

Because everyday driving isn’t always picture-perfect. There are potholes, puddles, surprise snowstorms, and tight turns on steep roads. AWD steps in to give you peace of mind when those challenges show up.

Common question: Do I need AWD if I live in a warm, sunny place?
Not necessarily. If you don’t deal with snow or heavy rain often, RWD could be just fine. But if you ever head north or drive through changing climates, AWD can be worth the upgrade.

Can the RWD M340i Handle Daily Driving Too?

Absolutely. Rear-wheel drive (RWD) is still a great choice for everyday driving, especially in areas with mild weather and good roads. BMW has been building rear-wheel drive sedans for decades, and they’ve always focused on giving drivers a balanced, enjoyable ride.

Why RWD works well for daily driving:

• Smoother handling in dry conditions: You get that classic BMW steering feel.
• Lighter weight: Without the AWD hardware, the RWD model is slightly lighter, which can help with fuel efficiency and a more responsive feel.
• Less complexity: RWD systems are simpler, which can mean fewer maintenance needs over time.

Of course, if you live somewhere that doesn’t see much snow and you’re comfortable driving in rain, the RWD M340i can easily be your go-to daily driver.

Common question: Is RWD dangerous in the snow?
Not if you’re prepared. With the right tires (like winter tires) and careful driving, RWD cars can handle snow just fine. It’s all about knowing your car and adjusting your driving to match the conditions.

What About Driving Comfort?

No matter which drivetrain you choose, comfort is built into the M340i. Both AWD and RWD models come with:

• Supportive sport seats that are comfortable for both short trips and long drives
• Smooth ride quality that balances performance with everyday comfort
• Quiet cabins with excellent insulation from road noise
• Three drive modes (Comfort, Sport, and Eco Pro) to match your mood and driving style

You won’t notice a difference in comfort or interior quality between the two versions. The real difference is how the car handles the road underneath you.

Fuel Economy in Everyday Use

While the difference isn’t huge, RWD gets slightly better fuel economy since the car weighs less and doesn’t have to power all four wheels.

• RWD M340i: About 26 mpg combined
• AWD M340i: About 25 mpg combined

Common question: Is that 1 mpg difference a big deal?
Not really, unless you drive a ton of miles every week. Most people won’t notice a big difference at the pump. It’s more of a small perk for those who want to squeeze out the most efficiency.

How to Decide: AWD or RWD for Your Daily Drive?

Here’s a simple way to think about it:

Go with AWD (xDrive) if:

• You deal with snow, rain, or icy roads
• You want extra confidence and stability
• You live in a place with hills or rough roads
• You prefer a car that adjusts automatically to changing conditions

Go with RWD if:

• You live in a mild climate
• You want a more classic sports car feel
• You’re looking for slightly better fuel economy
• You’re comfortable driving in different conditions with the right tires

Bottom Line: Both Work for Everyday Driving

Whether you choose AWD or RWD, the BMW M340i is built to be driven every day. It’s comfortable, quick, and packed with technology.

AWD gives you a little extra help when the weather gets tricky. RWD offers a more traditional sporty feel. Either way, you’re getting a luxury sports sedan that makes even your commute feel exciting.

Features You’ll Get Either Way

No matter which version of the BMW M340i you choose—AWD (xDrive) or RWD (rear-wheel drive)—you’re getting a car packed with luxury, technology, and comfort. Both versions offer the same features inside and out, so you won’t miss out on anything important just because you pick one drivetrain over the other.

In other words, whether you want the confidence of all-wheel drive or the sporty feel of rear-wheel drive, you’re still getting the full BMW experience.

What Tech Does the M340i Come With?

BMW has always been known for combining performance with innovation. The M340i is no exception. It comes with the latest iDrive 8 system, which is BMW’s most advanced infotainment system yet.

Here’s what you’ll find:

• Large digital displays: You get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster right in front of you, plus a 14.9-inch curved touchscreen in the center of the dashboard.
• iDrive 8: This system is intuitive and quick. You can control it by touch, voice command, or the rotary controller on the center console.
• Built-in navigation: The GPS is smart enough to adjust based on traffic, and the screen is clear and easy to read.
• Over-the-air updates: BMW can send software updates directly to your car, just like a smartphone.

Common question: Do I need to learn a whole new system to use iDrive 8?
Not at all. The layout is user-friendly, and it supports voice commands—so you can just say what you need. If you’ve used a smartphone, you’ll feel right at home.

Smartphone Integration

Stay connected without taking your eyes off the road. The M340i supports:

• Wireless Apple CarPlay
• Wireless Android Auto
• Bluetooth and USB connections

You can stream music, make calls, send messages, and use your favorite apps—all without plugging in your phone. It’s easy, seamless, and helps keep your focus on driving.

Comfort and Luxury Features

Just because the M340i is fast doesn’t mean it forgets about comfort. In fact, BMW goes out of its way to make sure the car feels just as good as it drives.

Here’s what you’ll enjoy:

• Premium materials: Soft-touch surfaces, aluminum or wood trim, and high-end stitching throughout the cabin
• Sport seats: Supportive and adjustable, designed to hold you in place during spirited driving while still being super comfortable for long trips
• Three-zone climate control: You, your front passenger, and your rear passengers can all set different temperatures
• Heated seats and optional ventilated seats
• Ambient interior lighting: You can change the colors to set the mood, especially at night

Common question: Are the seats the same in both AWD and RWD models?
Yes. Both versions offer the same interior comfort, including the exact same seating, trims, and finishes. There’s no difference in luxury features between the two drivetrains.

Safety and Driver Assistance

BMW includes a long list of advanced safety features and driver assistance systems to help protect you and make driving easier.

Standard features include:

• Lane Departure Warning: Alerts you if you drift out of your lane without signaling
• Forward Collision Warning with automatic emergency braking
• Blind Spot Monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert
• Adaptive Cruise Control: Keeps a set distance from the car in front of you and adjusts your speed automatically

You can also upgrade to get:

• Driving Assistance Professional Package: Adds features like lane-centering assist, traffic jam assist, and more advanced cruise control
• Parking Assistance Package: Includes a 360-degree camera system, self-parking capability, and front/rear sensors

Common question: Does the M340i drive itself?
Not completely, but with the optional driver assistance packages, it can help with things like steering, braking, and staying in your lane—especially during long highway drives or traffic. It’s still your job to stay alert and in control, but the car gives you an extra hand.

Other Great Features You’ll Love

Here are a few more features included in both M340i models:

• Harman Kardon Surround Sound System (available): Crisp, high-quality audio for music lovers
• Keyless entry and push-button start
• Digital key compatibility: Use your smartphone to lock, unlock, or start your car
• Wireless phone charging pad (optional)

So, Are AWD and RWD Equipped the Same Way?

Yes—everything inside and out is the same, except for the drivetrain. You don’t have to give up any features, tech, or luxury based on whether you go with AWD or RWD.

So if your decision comes down to choosing between a sportier driving experience or added traction and control, you can focus fully on that—without worrying about missing out on comfort, convenience, or cool features.

So, Which One is More Fun?

This is where personal preference comes in.

If you like to feel the rear wheels pushing you forward and want a car that’s a little more thrilling to drive, go with the RWD M340i. It’s more playful and gives you that classic BMW driving feel.

But if you want quicker take-offs, better grip in all kinds of weather, and a more stable ride, the AWD M340i is probably your best bet.

Final Thoughts: M340i AWD vs RWD

To wrap it up, both versions of the BMW M340i are fantastic. It really comes down to what kind of driver you are and what you want out of your car.

• Pick the AWD M340i if you want strong performance and year-round grip.
• Go for the RWD M340i if you’re all about sporty driving and enjoying the road.

No matter which one you choose, the M340i delivers luxury, speed, and excitement in one beautiful package.

Want to see the difference for yourself?
Check out our BMW M340i inventory at Braman BMW of West Palm Beach or contact us to schedule a test drive today. Let us help you find the perfect M340i for your lifestyle.