3 Series Wagon

Make
BMW
Segment
Wagon

Can't wait for the new BMW M3? The M340i is a pretty good stopgap. Its 387 horsepower makes it more potent than all but the last two iterations of the M3, and its 369 lb-ft of twist gives it more torque than all but the outgoing model. And now BMW will offer it as a Touring wagon, which is something it's never (officially) done with the M3.

The new BMW M340i xDrive Touring packs the same powertrain as the sedan we already know, with a 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six coupled to an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

It has the same suspension, steering brakes, rolling stock, aero kit... the works. The added weight of the longer roof costs a tenth off the 0-62 time (now quoted at 4.5 seconds). But in exchange, you get the added cargo capacity and versatility to match a crossover's, without the inherent top-heavy weight basis that'd make one wobble through the corners (or have to be counteracted with a stiffer-than-necessary ride). And that's precisely what would tempt us to pick up one of these instead of something taller... if only we were given the option.

Sadly BMW isn't bringing the new 3 Series wagon to the US, and the M340i will be no exception in that regard. Buyers north and south of our borders in Canada and Mexico will, though – not to mention a slew of countries in Europe, South America, Asia, and Down Under. And they'll also also get the First Edition, done up in matte grey and other special touches, with production limited to 340 units sedans and 340 wagons worldwide. As for us Yanks, we'll just have to make do with the M340i xDrive sedan or the X3 M crossover.