2026 BMW 3 Series in Riverside: 330i & M340i Overview
The 2026 BMW 3 Series carries forward the compact luxury sport sedan BMW is known for, pairing everyday efficiency with the rear-wheel-drive balance that defines the brand. For drivers across Riverside, Moreno Valley, Corona, and the wider Inland Empire, the 330i delivers an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined, helping stretch the miles between fill-ups on commutes along State Route 60 and Interstate 215. The sedan seats up to five within its 185.9-inch body — as practical for the school run as it is rewarding on an open highway.
Styling and Stance
The 2026 3 Series cuts a balanced figure at 185.9 inches long and 71.9 inches wide, with a low 56.8-inch roofline that gives it a planted look. The 330i rolls on standard 18-inch Dual-Spoke wheels (Style 1039) for a clean, professional appearance, while the M340i steps up to standard 19-inch M wheels for a more athletic presence on the road.
Power and Performance: 330i vs. M340i
The 330i pairs a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with standard rear-wheel drive, delivering the agile, balanced feel the 3 Series is known for. Drivers who want all-weather traction can choose the 330i xDrive, which adds BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive for about $2,000. The M340i steps up to a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six — also rear-wheel drive as standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available. Both engines use an eight-speed automatic transmission and run on premium unleaded.
Efficiency stays strong across the lineup. The rear-wheel-drive 330i earns an EPA-estimated 28 city / 35 highway / 31 combined mpg, while the M340i returns an EPA-estimated 27 city / 33 highway / 29 combined mpg in rear-wheel-drive form — impressive for its added power.
Fuel Economy (EPA-estimated)
| MPG | 330i (RWD) | M340i (RWD) |
|---|---|---|
| City | 28 | 27 |
| Highway | 35 | 33 |
| Combined | 31 | 29 |
Engine & Drivetrain
| Specification | 330i | M340i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo I4 | 3.0L turbo I6 |
| Drivetrain | RWD (xDrive opt.) | RWD (xDrive opt.) |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Fuel | Premium unleaded | Premium unleaded |
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.
Premium Interior and Everyday Comfort
The cabin seats five and is finished with quality materials throughout. The 330i comes standard with Aluminum Rhombicle Anthracite trim, and buyers can tailor the interior with available upgrades — popular choices include the $1,100 Convenience Package and Vernasca leather (about $1,500). The result is a refined, durable space that holds up to a busy daily routine.
Connected Technology for the Daily Commute
For drivers tackling traffic on the SR-60 through Moreno Valley, the 3 Series cabin doubles as a connected command center. An available Harman Kardon surround-sound system brings high-fidelity audio to long freeway stretches, keeping podcasts and playlists crisp on the drive home.
Driver Assistance and Safety
The 2026 3 Series earns Good ratings from the IIHS in key tests, including small overlap front protection, and comes with standard forward-collision mitigation. Available driver aids include blind-spot detection (part of the Convenience Package) and BMW’s Driving Assistance Professional Package (about $1,700), which adds adaptive cruise control with Stop & Go, lane-keeping assistance, and Traffic Jam Assistant — useful on busy Inland Empire corridors like the SR-60 and I-215.
Trims, Pricing, and Value at BMW of Riverside
The 330i is the efficient entry point at a starting MSRP of $49,350, with the 330i xDrive adding all-wheel drive for about $2,000. The M340i starts at $63,650 with its more powerful inline-six, and the M340i xDrive starts at $65,650.
| Configuration | Drivetrain | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| 330i | RWD | $49,350 |
| 330i xDrive | AWD | $51,350 |
| M340i | RWD | $63,650 |
| M340i xDrive | AWD | $65,650 |
MSRP for new vehicles covers manufacturer/distributor equipment and logistics fees, all of which are subject to revision. It does not account for taxes, registration, dealer-installed additions, or other local charges. MSRP is not a retail advertisement; actual dealer pricing will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Listed prices include the manufacturer’s destination and handling charge, which is subject to change. Confirm current pricing with BMW of Riverside.
For the complete spec breakdown, see our full 2026 BMW 3 Series specs and features page. You can also browse our pre-owned BMW inventory to compare value across model years.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2026 BMW 3 Series
Which trim offers the best fuel economy?
The rear-wheel-drive 330i leads at an EPA-estimated 31 mpg combined (28 city / 35 highway). The M340i still returns a competitive 29 mpg combined (27 city / 33 highway).
What are the main performance differences between the 330i and M340i?
The 330i uses a 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder with standard rear-wheel drive for an agile, balanced feel. The M340i steps up to a 3.0L turbocharged inline-six — also rear-wheel drive as standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive available. Both use an eight-speed automatic transmission and require premium fuel.
How much seating and space is available for families?
Both the 330i and M340i seat five, with a 185.9-inch length and 71.9-inch width — easy to park while remaining roomy enough for daily Inland Empire driving.
Is the 2026 BMW 3 Series available with all-wheel drive?
Yes. The 330i and M340i both come standard with rear-wheel drive, and BMW’s xDrive all-wheel drive is available on either engine for about $2,000 — a worthwhile option for added traction in wet weather. Browse the 2026 BMW 3 Series to see what’s in stock.
Disclaimers
MSRP for new vehicles covers manufacturer/distributor equipment and logistics fees, all of which are subject to revision. It does not account for taxes, registration, dealer-installed additions, or other local charges. MSRP is not a retail advertisement; actual dealer pricing will vary. The dealer sets the final price.
Listed prices include the manufacturer’s destination and handling charge, which is subject to change. Confirm current pricing with BMW of Riverside.
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary depending on driving conditions, how you drive and maintain your vehicle, battery age/condition, and other factors.