America is often done in compared to other markets, but not this time.
Last week, BMW revealed the 2023 BMW 3 Series, and with some subtle styling changes and the inclusion of more tech, this contender looks like it will once again be the benchmark of the segment. There’s plenty to love about the new car, and although it hasn’t received a bump in power, it remains an excellent car. Interestingly, however, BMW has given global markets a slightly less powerful M340i than we get in the US, and this was the case before the facelift too. While our B58 straight-six turbo generates 382 horsepower, the rest of the world is still stuck with 369 hp. So why the difference?
AutoTopNL/YouTube
AutoTopNL/YouTube
Well, Europe has much more stringent emissions regulations than we do in the land of the free, although that could change someday soon. Our best guess is that tightening emissions regulations required BMW to alter something on the exhaust system, stifling the engine somewhat. Whatever the case, BMW has not yet provided updated acceleration figures for the 2023 model, which could suggest that the European car is no quicker than before either. For reference, the US-spec 2022 model can do 0-60 mph in 4.4 seconds with RWD and in 4.1 seconds with AWD. To be fair, we don’t expect our M340i to be any quicker than before either.
We reached out to BMW for an answer and received the response: “In Europe, we are integrating (due to legal emission requirements) the so-called GPF, the gasoline particulate filter. This filter increases the back pressure in the exhaust system and reduces, therefore, the power output slightly.”
AutoTopNL/YouTube
AutoTopNL/YouTube
Basically, those in the UK and Europe can unlock the full 382 hp by getting the filter removed, although this will inevitably have some legal challenges when the time comes for a roadworthiness test. Fortunately, there’s more than enough excitement to be found in other areas of the car.
The 2023 M340i is benefiting from the option of a carbon fiber roof for the first time, just like on the M3. If that doesn’t tickle buyers’ fancy, there are plenty of other options that should. BMW also has a reputation for underquoting performance figures, and even if it didn’t, there’s more to a sporty car than just its headline figures. That said, we’re taking this chance to stick our tongues out at Europe and gloat. We’ve got more power, baby!
