What up what up, I’ve been enjoying the content on this sub for a while and I’m lining up for an M340 purchase. Hoping for pre LCI since I prefer the prior cockpit but will prioritize the right spec. Looking for something 2020 or newer with under 20k miles on it. I’m going to be patient since I know it will take a while for my spec to pop up.
A few questions for those of you generous to share your perspective:
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M Adaptive Suspension: Is this a must have if I can find it? I like what I’m reading about it but wondering if there are any downside re: maintenance etc or if it’s not really going to make a difference on an XDrive spec. It’s hard enough to find that I haven’t been able to test drive yet.
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XDrive vs RWD: I’m leaning XDrive but curious if there are strong opinions on this. All of my cars over the last 10 years have been AWD and I’m really used to the feel off the line but I would go RWD if there’s some big advantage re: reliability/maintenance or experience-wise.
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Mild Hybrid: Wondering if this adds any extra complexity to the engine that creates issues. I prefer the exhaust sound prior to the mild hybrid but I know I can fix that with light mods. Curious if anybody has an opinion about the mild hybrid and the impact on the overall ownership experience.
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Overall Maintenance/Reliability: I have an excellent BMW mechanic in my area that I’ve been going to for years. Wondering if the premium for a CPO is worth it when I have a guy that can help me maintain the car. Outside of the standard brakes/tires and scheduled maintenance, what sort of issues have popped up between 0 and 60k miles and what was the rough cost to repair?
I have a 2016 XDrive X3 right now so I’m familiar with how it has performed post CPO. Just curious how it’s been out there for those of you with M340 experience.
I have a 2022 M340i and have had it for two years. As far as reliability, I’ve had zero issues so far.
I have the RWD. The Xdrive they say has a faster 0-60 time and the more people I’ve talked to, say it’s worth it to get.
The mild hybrid I think improves gas mileage? In comfort mode the electric motor will take over at low speeds and shuts the car off at stop lights. For me the constant on/off of the car is very annoying. You can’t turn off the auto stop/start unless you drive in sport mode, which is what I use the majority of the time. Even in sport mode I’ve been getting an average of 26mpg.
Overall it’s been a great car, fast, comfortable, and fun to drive.
Awesome to hear, thanks for sharing. I totally agree about the auto-shutoff… I disable that on every car I have. How many miles have you put on your m340 so far?
I have a ‘22. Adaptive was better than non. It’s still a bit stiff regardless but adaptive helps (doesn’t bother me, just notice it vs other vehicles). The mild hybrid I believe helps slightly with torque, but I know for a fact the auto start stop works the best of many cars I’ve driven, likely because of it.
A few other comments. I’d get one with Harmon Kardon. Parking assist package is awesome (for the 3D camera and the automated blackout), but probably a nice to have. Keep in mind with Parking Assist you can get Drive Recorder with is basically a built in dashcam. Don’t have to futz around with aftermarket, and the looks stays clean. Driving assist is nice to have but I’d put it below parking. Mine is basically fully optioned except for the Tire and Cooling package (I’ll likely never track it). Also be mindful that depending on factory built tire, your top speed is limited to 130 or 155. Mine has all seasons, so I’m 130 (I believe you can change this list with a tune/bimmercode, but mine would have to go to Sweden or wherever. Doubt I ever go that fast anyway, and I’ve got no time for swapping tires/wheels twice a year (or storage for that matter).
If I have passengers I drive in comfort. If I don’t, I do sport individual and keep dampers in comfort mode, all else in regular sport. On the highway I’m always comfort unless rush hour. Car gets amazing MPG on highway in comfort. If I’m feeling crazy I do Sport+. I have Xdrive and it’s SUPER easy to throw out the backend with traction in reduced mode. I like xdrive because I don’t trust myself with RWD, and yes it’s faster.
This is coming from someone past their wild younger years, so you may be more aggressive on driving styles. Haven’t had any issues, granted I’m probably lower on the mileage spectrum than some others.
Thanks for sharing your experience, super helpful to get your take on the packages. I was thinking pro drive assist would be worth holding out for bc it will really take the pressure off in bad traffic, although I don’t commute much. Sounds like we’re on the same page — my wild years are behind me but I want something that can be super fun to drive when I want it to be.
How many miles are you at this point?
I’ve heard non adaptive owners complain about harsh rides so I’d consider it a must.
I have a m440i GC so a little different but the same under the skin.
Drive assist is awesome. Traffic jam mode is great and even the regular hands on assist works nice when you don’t feel like actually driving.
I like the mild hybrid and the start stop is way smoother than most and if you don’t want it (like when it’s really hot or cold) you can just stick over to sport trans and it stays on.