BMW 3 Series Trims: 330i, 330e, M340i & More

They mark different places in the 3 Series lineup and different eras. The 320i was the entry version, 328i and 330i were mainstream four-cylinder models, and 335i and 340i used stronger six-cylinder engines. A higher number does not automatically mean a newer car, so compare the model year too.

The labels identify the powertrain or role. A d marks a diesel, e marks a plug-in hybrid in the 330e, and xDrive means all-wheel drive. M340i is the performance-focused six-cylinder trim below the full M3; it is more than an appearance package.

The 330i is rear-wheel drive, while the 330i xDrive adds all-wheel drive. In recent years they share the same 255-hp turbo four-cylinder engine and core cabin technology. Pick xDrive for added traction in rain and snow; pick the regular 330i for the traditional rear-drive layout.

In recent years, the M340i adds a much stronger turbocharged six-cylinder engine plus upgraded brakes, a sportier suspension and steering setup, a performance differential, and more aggressive exterior trim. It is the step for drivers who want substantially quicker acceleration and sharper responses.

The M340i is rear-wheel drive, while the M340i xDrive adds all-wheel drive. Both use the same six-cylinder engine and M-developed performance hardware in recent years. The rear-drive car has the more traditional sport-sedan feel; xDrive provides more traction for hard acceleration and mixed weather.

In the sixth-generation lineup, the 320i was the simpler entry sedan, while the 328i used a stronger 240-hp turbo four-cylinder and commonly brought sport seats, power front seats, and dual-zone climate control. The 328i is the better fit for stronger everyday acceleration; the 320i keeps things basic.

Broadly, yes. The 330i replaced the 328i in the U.S. lineup for 2017 and introduced a newer turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. Both serve as the central four-cylinder 3 Series, but equipment and cabin technology vary significantly by year.

The 340i replaced the 335i sedan during the sixth generation. Both are rear-drive, six-cylinder performance models below the M3, but the 340i brought a newer and stronger turbocharged engine. Later 340i models also received sportier standard trim and additional convenience equipment.

No. The 340i is the six-cylinder performance trim from the later sixth-generation era. The M340i arrived with the seventh generation and adds a newer engine plus M-tuned brakes, suspension, steering, differential, and body styling. They fill similar roles but are not the same trim.

The 330e is the rear-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid, while the 330e xDrive adds all-wheel drive. On newer versions, both combine a turbo four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and share the same main cabin technology. The rear-drive model has the longer electric range; xDrive adds traction with some extra weight.

The 330e iPerformance is an earlier plug-in-hybrid 3 Series. It combines gasoline and electric power in a familiar sedan rather than using a separate body style. Hybrid-specific displays and subtle blue details identify it, but it otherwise follows the comfort and sport-sedan approach of its era.

The 328d is the rear-drive diesel sedan, while the 328d xDrive adds all-wheel drive. The 328d xDrive Sports Wagon adds a larger cargo opening, power tailgate, and panoramic moonroof. The older 335d uses a stronger six-cylinder diesel and suits drivers who want more low-speed pulling power.

Pick the Sports Wagon for a lower, more traditional wagon shape with car-like handling and useful cargo space. Pick the Gran Turismo for a taller roof, roomier rear seating, and a large liftgate. Both were sold in earlier 3 Series eras, often with xDrive all-wheel drive.

For a newer gas sedan, the 330i is the straightforward commuter choice because it balances performance, comfort, and cabin technology. A 330e suits shorter routines when regular charging is practical. An older 328d fits frequent highway driving, while xDrive versions make sense where rain or snow is common.

Since the 2023 refresh, 330i, 330e, and M340i families use a 12.3-inch driver display and 14.9-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The latest gas trims use an updated version of that system. Earlier cars have different dashboard designs and software.