[hybrid90]

First time poster here.

I actually have a very basic question that you would think would be easy to answer, but I can't seem to find a straight answer to this.

At the moment, I drive an E92 335is. Before that, I drove an E90 335i w/Sport Pkg and before that I drove an E46 330ci Performance Pkg. I guess you can see where I'm coming from...

The wife and I have decided that it's time to get into something a bit more "practical" for family/function. So we started looking at the newer X3 M40i models (we're planning on leasing so we won't have to worry about warranty or maintenance). Unfortunately, I found that at this moment, the X3 M40i is a bit out of my reach (short version is I need more money down or more equity on my trade in because I've only had it 18 mos). So we were resigned to having to wait another year or two to be in a better place to get this, but the dealer called me and told me that they had a 2016 X3 X35i w/M Sport Pkg and almost fully loaded. I drove it and I did like it. But it's four years old and I would have to come up with some kind of warranty on it as I won't buy a car without one.

So here are my two questions:

First, aside from the obvious (newer engine, newer updated dash and iDrive), what are the main differences between the 2016 X3 X35i M Sport and a newer X3 M40i? I've been looking all over and from what I can see, there isn't much. The suspension, steering, and handling are relatively the same as near as I can tell. The exhaust is a bit louder on the M40i, but the X35i M Sport has a pretty good tone as well. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.

Second, and this is purely a "what do you think" question, should I wait to get into the M40i (and if I did that, I would get most of the extra options), or do you think that going with the '16 X35i M Sport would be good? If I went this way, I would prob keep it for at least 3-4 years before looking at trading in (I drive a lot and we ALWAYS take my car which is why the wife wants me to get an X3 or X5).

Any help, comments, opinions or insights would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!

[Lucky13]

Totally different platform, the new X3 is built from the CLAR platform and its bigger yet handles better than the previous X3. Huge difference in engine and power, currently 382 hp with B58 vs 320 more than likely on the last generation with N55 engine. I had a E93 335 and own a M235 coupe yet we bought a 2020 X3 30 that has plenty of power. The question is it worth an extra $10K, for most people its not because they sell many more 4 cylinders than 6’s but I totally understand the obsession for one but my wife could care less about extra power.

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by Lucky13

Totally different platform, the new X3 is built from the CLAR platform and its bigger yet handles better than the previous X3. Huge difference in engine and power, currently 382 hp with B58 vs 320 more than likely on the last generation with N55 engine. I had a E93 335 and own a M235 coupe yet we bought a 2020 X3 30 that has plenty of power. The question is it worth an extra $10K, for most people its not because they sell many more 4 cylinders than 6's but I totally understand the obsession for one but my wife could care less about extra power.

I know it's the newer platform, but I didn't realize that they were that different. Everything I've read said that not much had changed between the two platforms.

I also didn't know that the newer one was bigger, yet still handled better. But considering that they look so much like the X5's, it shouldn't be surprising.

[dmicah]

You're in a G01 forum so you're likely to get a lot of comments that would support that platform over the old one (myself included). Presumably you've been able to drive the M40i? The latest generation of BMWs represent a return to form like that of the E9X series (I also had an E90 with sport and 6MT). I love the dynamics of my M40i.

You're asking if you should wait for the newer generation. I think you should. But I also wonder if you'll have to wait that long. Things are really messed up right now, and if your job is secure, you're at a huge advantage relative to others and, quite honestly, to a dealership. Wait a month or two. Find out what BMW does today or tomorrow for April incentives. Talk to a few different dealerships. Buy a 2020 off the lot. I bet you can make something happen relatively soon.

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by dmicah

You're in a G01 forum so you're likely to get a lot of comments that would support that platform over the old one (myself included). Presumably you've been able to drive the M40i? The latest generation of BMWs represent a return to form like that of the E9X series (I also had an E90 with sport and 6MT). I love the dynamics of my M40i.

You're asking if you should wait for the newer generation. I think you should. But I also wonder if you'll have to wait that long. Things are really messed up right now, and if your job is secure, you're at a huge advantage relative to others and, quite honestly, to a dealership. Wait a month or two. Find out what BMW does today or tomorrow for April incentives. Talk to a few different dealerships. Buy a 2020 off the lot. I bet you can make something happen relatively soon.

I posted here because I assumed that anyone who had the M40i might have had the X35i M Sport previously. And while I would much rather go with the M40i, if it's not int he cards, I was curious if the X35i M Sport was close in driving experience.

But you have a very good point about being in an advantageous position. I have an "Essential" job so that is something the dealer wants and maybe they'll work with me...

[cjallstar]

Originally Posted by hybrid90

I posted here because I assumed that anyone who had the M40i might have had the X35i M Sport previously. And while I would much rather go with the M40i, if it's not int he cards, I was curious if the X35i M Sport was close in driving experience.

But you have a very good point about being in an advantageous position. I have an "Essential" job so that is something the dealer wants and maybe they'll work with me...

So I actually just came from a loaded '17 35i M Sport into a '20 M40i, one month ago almost to the day. They are much, much different cars and unfortunately in your case; the M40i is more than twice the car the 35i is. Really everything is much improved, so it would be too long winded to list all the improvements. However most noticeably, the M40i driving experience is worlds away from the 35i. The suspension is much more compliant (comfortable) while somehow keeping the bigger M40i under control and with minimal body roll through turns. The brakes are far far FAR better than those on the 35i. The transmission feels so much smoother in comfort, and faster in sport modes or with the paddles. Then, there's the engine. Really a night and day difference in power. Not that the 35i is slow, but the M40i is shockingly fast for its price. It can definitely put you back in your seat from a stoplight, and is so comfortable putting on speed on the highway (dangerously so). The technology is also better, with iDrive 7, a large touch screen, and digital gauge cluster.

If I were you, I'd see if you could get into an '18 or '19 M40i. If any are available, they will be cheaper not only because they are older model years, but because the '20 model year introduced a few changes. Most notably, an increase in horsepower from 355 to 382.

[Oldguysrule]

I second looking for a low mileage used M40i. This pandemic and resultimg economy will hurt a lot of people. Its really too bad but there will be loan and lease defaults. Even if you get a 2 year old vehicle, you'll still have 2 years of full warranty and 4 years of powertrain left. I'd expect you'd find a low mileage well optioned 2 year old car for mid 40s or lower if you're patient.

[Alias1431]

I know this isn't a precise answer, but I recently drove an X2 M35i loaner, and I hated it. I know the chassis is not really applicable to this discussion, but I also hated the powertrain compared to the M40i. Maybe the X3 35i is tuned better... but after the year of research I did prior to buying the M40i, and the test drives, and the last half-year of ownership, I can confidently say that if you can afford the M40i, that's the best choice by far.

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by Alias1431

I know this isn't a precise answer, but I recently drove an X2 M35i loaner, and I hated it. I know the chassis is not really applicable to this discussion, but I also hated the powertrain compared to the M40i. Maybe the X3 35i is tuned better... but after the year of research I did prior to buying the M40i, and the test drives, and the last half-year of ownership, I can confidently say that if you can afford the M40i, that's the best choice by far.

Actually, it is applicable because I was ALSO looking at one of these. I drove one and didn't think it was too bad except for the throttle issues which they apparently still haven't figured out. But to me, it was just like my car but with more ground clearance. I would have gotten into one because they are newer and come with warranty, and a bit cheaper, but I would prefer the X3.

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by cjallstar

So I actually just came from a loaded '17 35i M Sport into a '20 M40i, one month ago almost to the day. They are much, much different cars and unfortunately in your case; the M40i is more than twice the car the 35i is. Really everything is much improved, so it would be too long winded to list all the improvements. However most noticeably, the M40i driving experience is worlds away from the 35i. The suspension is much more compliant (comfortable) while somehow keeping the bigger M40i under control and with minimal body roll through turns. The brakes are far far FAR better than those on the 35i. The transmission feels so much smoother in comfort, and faster in sport modes or with the paddles. Then, there's the engine. Really a night and day difference in power. Not that the 35i is slow, but the M40i is shockingly fast for its price. It can definitely put you back in your seat from a stoplight, and is so comfortable putting on speed on the highway (dangerously so). The technology is also better, with iDrive 7, a large touch screen, and digital gauge cluster.

If I were you, I'd see if you could get into an '18 or '19 M40i. If any are available, they will be cheaper not only because they are older model years, but because the '20 model year introduced a few changes. Most notably, an increase in horsepower from 355 to 382.

Now THIS is exactly the kind of feedback I was hoping for which is why I posted here. I didn't get to drive them side by side so I only had memory to go from and when I'm driiving my 335is and go to an X3, it's quite a bit different. I do know that the M40i has as much (if not more) brute acceleration as my E90 335i and E92 335is, but I'm also talking about the overall driving experience, and you covered that. That is actually a bigger concern for me than the power because having all that power is pointless if I can't take a curve.

So thank you for chiming in and I'm seriously thinking about waiting to see what happens when all this crap starts subsiding. It may be just the opportunity I need...

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by Oldguysrule

I second looking for a low mileage used M40i. This pandemic and resultimg economy will hurt a lot of people. Its really too bad but there will be loan and lease defaults. Even if you get a 2 year old vehicle, you'll still have 2 years of full warranty and 4 years of powertrain left. I'd expect you'd find a low mileage well optioned 2 year old car for mid 40s or lower if you're patient.

ANd I wouldn't mind a two year old car. They would prob Certify it anyway and add another year to the warranty. I can DEFINITELY live with that...

[Oldguysrule]

Originally Posted by hybrid90

ANd I wouldn't mind a two year old car. They would prob Certify it anyway and add another year to the warranty. I can DEFINITELY live with that...

Even if its not certified you'll be good. I really wanted a specific color for exterior and interior and I bought online from an Audi dealership (local trade). Even with transport I saved quite a bit shopping in another state. My 2018 isn't certified but it had 2.2 years left on full warranty and only 13K miles on it. Just broken in.

[pduffy]

Originally Posted by hybrid90

First time poster here.

I actually have a very basic question that you would think would be easy to answer, but I can't seem to find a straight answer to this.

At the moment, I drive an E92 335is. Before that, I drove an E90 335i w/Sport Pkg and before that I drove an E46 330ci Performance Pkg. I guess you can see where I'm coming from...

The wife and I have decided that it's time to get into something a bit more "practical" for family/function. So we started looking at the newer X3 M40i models (we're planning on leasing so we won't have to worry about warranty or maintenance). Unfortunately, I found that at this moment, the X3 M40i is a bit out of my reach (short version is I need more money down or more equity on my trade in because I've only had it 18 mos). So we were resigned to having to wait another year or two to be in a better place to get this, but the dealer called me and told me that they had a 2016 X3 X35i w/M Sport Pkg and almost fully loaded. I drove it and I did like it. But it's four years old and I would have to come up with some kind of warranty on it as I won't buy a car without one.

So here are my two questions:

First, aside from the obvious (newer engine, newer updated dash and iDrive), what are the main differences between the 2016 X3 X35i M Sport and a newer X3 M40i? I've been looking all over and from what I can see, there isn't much. The suspension, steering, and handling are relatively the same as near as I can tell. The exhaust is a bit louder on the M40i, but the X35i M Sport has a pretty good tone as well. Any help on this would be greatly appreciated.

Second, and this is purely a "what do you think" question, should I wait to get into the M40i (and if I did that, I would get most of the extra options), or do you think that going with the '16 X35i M Sport would be good? If I went this way, I would prob keep it for at least 3-4 years before looking at trading in (I drive a lot and we ALWAYS take my car which is why the wife wants me to get an X3 or X5).

Any help, comments, opinions or insights would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks!!

As someone who was in a very similar situation, you should 100% wait to get into the M40i.

I traded in my e92 335i just last month. Initially, I was set on the new M340i but my wife wanted something a little larger/more practical. If you option it porperly you'll enjoy driving the M40i just as much as the 335 (if not more). It's quicker than the 335 and if you get the M Sport Differential and Adaptive M suspension, it handles way better than you expect an SUV to handle.

Happy to answer any other questions you have. We've had our X3 M40i for a little over a month now.

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by pduffy1064

As someone who was in a very similar situation, you should 100% wait to get into the M40i.

I traded in my e92 335i just last month. Initially, I was set on the new M340i but my wife wanted something a little larger/more practical. If you option it porperly you'll enjoy driving the M40i just as much as the 335 (if not more). It's quicker than the 335 and if you get the M Sport Differential and Adaptive M suspension, it handles way better than you expect an SUV to handle.

Happy to answer any other questions you have. We've had our X3 M40i for a little over a month now.

My exact scenario right now. If you write up a review or anything, let me know. I'd be very interested to hear your take on going from an E92 to the X3 M40i

[cjallstar]

Originally Posted by hybrid90

Now THIS is exactly the kind of feedback I was hoping for which is why I posted here. I didn't get to drive them side by side so I only had memory to go from and when I'm driiving my 335is and go to an X3, it's quite a bit different. I do know that the M40i has as much (if not more) brute acceleration as my E90 335i and E92 335is, but I'm also talking about the overall driving experience, and you covered that. That is actually a bigger concern for me than the power because having all that power is pointless if I can't take a curve.

So thank you for chiming in and I'm seriously thinking about waiting to see what happens when all this crap starts subsiding. It may be just the opportunity I need...

Happy to be able to help! For reference, I came from a '06 E53 4.4i, to a '14 F30 335xi sedan with M power kit ( that was a quick car), to a '17 F25 35i and now the '20 G01 M40i. The move fro the F30 to the F25 was most definitely a step back in driving experience. Don't get me wrong, the F25 is a great car, but really can't be compared to the G01 M40i. I would definitely hang on until incentives/offers come out from BMW so that you can get your hands on a G01. Also given the economic situation right now, almost no one is buying a new car. I would try to find a car that matches your wants that is on a dealer lot, and make an aggressive offer/start a conversation. You never know what could happen!

[hybrid90]

Originally Posted by cjallstar

Happy to be able to help! For reference, I came from a '06 E53 4.4i, to a '14 F30 335xi sedan with M power kit ( that was a quick car), to a '17 F25 35i and now the '20 G01 M40i. The move fro the F30 to the F25 was most definitely a step back in driving experience. Don't get me wrong, the F25 is a great car, but really can't be compared to the G01 M40i. I would definitely hang on until incentives/offers come out from BMW so that you can get your hands on a G01. Also given the economic situation right now, almost no one is buying a new car. I would try to find a car that matches your wants that is on a dealer lot, and make an aggressive offer/start a conversation. You never know what could happen!

That's what I've been thinking after talking to everyone here. And since I'm in an advantageous position right now, I'm hoping An opportunity will arise