BMW 3 Series M340d xDrive

The M340d sits in an interesting position within BMW's 3 Series range — not the full-fat M3, but a genuine M Performance model that deserves to be taken seriously. The 3.0-litre inline-six diesel mild hybrid produces 335bhp and a substantial 700 lb-ft of torque, covering 0-62mph in 4.6 seconds on the way to a 155mph top speed. xDrive all-wheel drive is standard, funnelling that output through an eight-speed automatic with confident traction in all conditions. Euro 6 compliance and the mild hybrid assist keep the efficiency argument credible alongside the performance numbers.

This 2023 example has covered 37,267 miles — reasonable for a three-year-old car used as its makers intended. The cabin has been specified with Vernasca leather in black with blue stitching, which adds a layer of visual interest beyond the base interior. Equipment includes BMW Live Cockpit Plus, adaptive LED headlights, heated front seats, and a full parking assistant suite with front and rear sensors and a reversing camera. It presents in grey.

For buyers who want the genuine performance of a sub-five-second saloon without the compromises of a dedicated sports car, the M340d makes a coherent argument. The diesel powertrain means strong mid-range punch and motorway efficiency in the same package — a combination the petrol M cars cannot match on longer runs.