The BMW 3 Series is a luxury sports sedan that makes up about 25 percent of BMW's total cars finished per year. The 2016 model of the BMW 3 Series is an improved version of last year's unit. Called the 340i model, the unit features a new engine that comes in with a style update, some new options and a more powerful engine, per Edmunds.

According to Car and Driver, the 2016 BMW 340i has a new 3.0-liter, six-cylinder twin-scroll turbocharged and intercooler DOHC 24 engine. It can produce up to 320 horsepower at 6,500 rpm and 330 pound-feet of torque at 1,380 rpm.

The car can accelerate from zero to 60 mph at 4.5 seconds with a top speed of 155 mph. The latest version of the car comes with a six-speed manual and an eight-speed automatic with manual shifting mode transmission that can include BMW's xDrive all-wheel drive system.

Digital Trends points out the car's Track Handling package, which includes an adaptive M suspension, M sports brakes with a blue fixed-mount calipers and a sporty steering wheel. BMW increased the number of mount points for the M suspension and gave the 340i a set of convenient shocks that can be controlled electronically. The review said that it also has a drive mode that can monitor acceleration, speed, throttle position and steering angle.

As for the exterior, Car and Driver noted that the changes made on the 340i's style are barely noticeable while the interior has some metal trim strips. The car's cabin is still in-style with the current trends. The main changes to its bodywork are the LED headlights having a distinct look based on BMW's "Angel Eye" outlines.

However, the interior does not look as extravagant as the Mercedes-Benz C-Class or the new Audi A4, but it comes with some improvements that are made as part of the optional Sports Line. It has a good stereo with Bluetooth that can be upgraded to have navigation, satellite radio and a moonroof.

The 2016 BMW 340i has a top price of $48,795 with the inclusion of the xDrive system, which costs around $2,000. It is money well spent, per Digital Trends, because xDrive is a flexible option that can direct up to a hundred percent of torque at the rear wheels on dry surfaces.

The news outlet adds that BMW has done a good job in maintaining the 3 Series as a luxury car for driving aficionados that give them great car handling, a powerful engine, the availability of manual transmission and xDrive system, and it's very comfortable to drive.