Is the BMW 340i available in China?
3 Answers
BMW 340i has been launched in China. Relevant information about BMW is as follows: Introduction: BMW, the full Chinese name being Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, is a German automobile brand. BMW's vehicle series include i, X, Z, and pure numeric models, with series such as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. Logo meaning: B.M.W. stands for Bayerische Motoren Werke. The colors and combination of the logo are derived from the state emblem of Bavaria, where BMW is headquartered. BMW initially started as an aircraft engine manufacturer, leading many to believe the logo represents a rotating propeller, but this is not the case. The blue and white symmetrical pattern is actually the state emblem of Bavaria, symbolizing BMW's pure Bavarian heritage. Like Mercedes-Benz, BMW pursues high quality, high performance, and advanced technology in its vehicles. Although BMW's production volume is not high, it enjoys a reputation nearly equal to that of Mercedes-Benz in the global automotive industry and among consumers. BMW's acceleration and high-speed performance are among the best in the world, making it the preferred choice for police vehicles in many countries.
Last year when I was researching BMW's model lineup for car selection, I can definitively say that the 340i was not officially introduced in China. I asked the sales director at a dealership, and he told me that BMW China only brought in the three main models: 320i, 325i, and 330i. The 340i, as a 3.0T six-cylinder performance variant, is a hot seller in Europe and North America, but domestically, the focus is on the high-power 2.0T version of the 330i. Once at a car show, I met a tuning shop owner who said importing a 340i from Germany through parallel channels would cost at least 700,000 to 800,000 RMB, not including the 27% tariff. Actually, buying a 330i in China and flashing its ECU can get performance close to the 340i—BMW's strategy is quite clever.
Last week I helped a friend check the imported vehicle catalog at the DMV, and the BMW 340i is indeed not on the list. This model hasn't been officially introduced to China since the F30 generation. Currently, the fully-loaded G20 330i costs around 420,000 RMB out-the-door. If the 340i were imported, it would probably cost 200,000 RMB more. I know a foreign car enthusiast who bought one through parallel import, but got stuck with emission certification during customs clearance - he eventually had to use a broker to get it done. Honestly though, there's a big difference between the 340i's B58 engine and the 330i's B48. The smoothness of a six-cylinder is something a small-displacement four-cylinder can't match, especially when cruising on highways where you still get that push-back feeling even below 2,000 rpm.
