Road Test: Is BMW M340i the Perfect Midsize Luxury Sedan?
About this episode
Exploring the 2025 BMW M340i, this episode dives into its performance, luxury features, and overall appeal as a midsize luxury sedan. Co-hosts Jack Neerad and Chris Teague discuss the car's turbocharged inline-six engine, smooth ride, and advanced technology, highlighting its balance of comfort and sportiness. They also touch on automotive news, including Kia's significant EV discounts and the impending final edition of the BMW Z4. An exclusive interview with Kia designer Tom Kearns adds insight into the new Telluride's design and market success.
This week on America on the Road, host Jack Nerad and co-host Chris Teague dive into a feature-filled show that includes two compelling road tests: Chris drives the newly rugged 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport, and Jack gets behind the wheel of the refined and powerful 2025 BMW M340i. The pair also unpack one of the tech world’s most surprising automotive announcements from NVIDIA, discuss a major tariff shift favoring Korean brands, and look at gigantic EV discounts. Plus, they cover the swan-song BMW Z4 Final Edition and comment on the new threats to racetracks that are looming nationwide. Jack also sits down with Tom Kearns, lead designer of the 2027 Kia Telluride, for an exclusive interview recorded at the Los Angeles Auto Show.
🚗 Road Tests Jack Nerad Reviews the 2025 BMW M340iJack drives one of BMW’s most balanced sedans, the M340i, which is positioned between the 330i and the full-blown M3. The sweet four-door uses a 386-hp turbocharged inline-six supported by mild-hybrid technology and an eight-speed automatic that blends smoothness with quick shifts. Jack digs into the car’s poised handling, adaptive suspension tuning, strong braking, and premium cabin anchored by BMW’s curved dual-display setup. With nearly 17 cubic feet of trunk space and a refined ride, the M340i delivers daily usability with legitimate performance chops. That begs the question: is it the best midsize luxury sedan you can buy?
Chris Teague Drives the 2026 Honda Passport TrailSportChris takes the most capable Passport yet produced into the real world of frigid Maine. The 2026 TrailSport offers meaningful upgrades: an inch-wider stance, flared fenders, exclusive 18-inch wheels, and specially developed General Grabber all-terrain tires. Honda adds steel skid plates, bright orange recovery points, and a retuned second-generation i-VTM4 torque-vectoring AWD system that brings sharper control in mud, rocks, and sand. A stronger 285-hp 3.5-liter V6 and updated 10-speed automatic transmission round out a package built to go farther off the pavement than any Passport before it.
🎙️ Special Guest Interview Tom Kearns, Designer of the 2027 Kia TellurideJack sits down with Kia’s Tom Kearns for an exclusive look behind the design of the upcoming 2027 Telluride. They discuss how the next-generation model builds on the success of Kia’s flagship three-row SUV, what design themes carry forward, and how Kia plans to evolve one of the most popular vehicles in its lineup.
📰 This Week’s Auto Headlines NVIDIA Introduces AI That Lets Cars “Explain” Their ThinkingNVIDIA has unveiled Alpamayo-R1, a new open-source model that combines vision, language, and action planning to let autonomous vehicles verbalize what they see and why they react the way they do. Vehicles can effectively “think aloud,” giving engineers clearer insight into real-time decision-making and potentially accelerating safer development across the self-driving sector.
U.S. Lowers Tariffs on South Korean ImportsA new agreement reduces tariffs on South Korean goods, including automobiles, to 15 percent—retroactive to November 1. The move comes after South Korea advanced its promised $350 billion in U.S. investments. Airplane part tariffs will be lifted as well, and future national-security-based duties for key industries will be capped.
Kia Offers $10,000 Off All EV ModelsKia is rolling out deep discounts across every EV in its lineup. The Niro EV, EV6, and EV9 each receive ten-thousand-dollar price cuts, along with additional financing bonuses and zero-percent APR options. Leasing incentives range from $209 per month on the Niro EV to $419 on the EV9. All qualifying EVs now include the North American Charging Standard port for access to Tesla’s Supercharger network.
BMW Announces Z4 Final EditionThe Z4 roadster era is ending. BMW has revealed the Z4 Final Edition, a limited-run M40i variant offered from February through April 2026. It features Frozen Black metallic paint, a Moonlight Black top, Shadowline trim, special wheels, red brake calipers, and unique chassis tuning for manual models. Inside, BMW adds Vernasca leather, Alcantara accents, and Z4 Final Edition sill plates.
“Right to Race” Legislation Gains MomentumSEMA and PRI continue pushing for protections that shield racetracks from nuisance claims tied to expanding residential development. After major traction in North Carolina, the organizations met with Wisconsin lawmakers and track operators to build support for similar legislation. The effort underscores the economic and cultural significance of race tracks statewide.
📩 Listener Question of the WeekMaureen from Pawtucket, Rhode Island asks:
“Should I buy my new car now in December, or wait until after the first of the year?”
Jack and Chris walk through year-end incentives, dealer inventory timing, and how January pricing typically shifts.
📚 BooksJack’s crime novel Only One Thing Stays the Same is out now in ebook and paperback—an easy holiday gift at an easy price.
🎧 Where to ListenCatch America on the Road on this station every week, and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, and Rumble. You’ll also find road test videos, interviews, and shorts on our YouTube channel.
Special thanks to Mercury Insurance for sponsoring the show and to our Sports Byline Network affiliates nationwide.
🎙️ HostsJack Nerad — Award-winning auto journalist and author of Only One Thing Stays the Same
Chris Teague — Longtime auto critic and journalist
📢 Presented by• DrivingToday.com
• EMLandsea.com
• Mercury Insurance – Switch today and save. Californians save an average of $670.
Find America on the Road on YouTube and Rumble. Subscribe for road test videos, shorts, and extended reviews.
📨 Email: [email protected]
Check Out Matt DeLorenzo’s Book:Pick up a copy of co-host Matt DeLorenzo’s terrific new book Mercedes-AMG: Race-Bred Performance
Special Price for Jack’s Newest Crime Novel:Jack is now offering his newest crime novel, Only One Thing Stays the Same, at a 67%-off price of just $4.99. Click here to buy from Amazon at this special limited-time price.
EV
"Kia has announced that it will be offering $10,000 off on any EV in its lineup."
An EV is a car that uses electricity to run instead of gas. They are better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
EV stands for electric vehicle, which is a type of car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are known for being environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
BMW Z4
"On the other hand, it's not just your lucky day for the BMW Z4. It's about to sing its swan song with a final edition set to go into production right after."
The BMW Z4 is a type of sports car that can be driven with the top down. It's known for being fast and fun to drive.
The BMW Z4 is a sporty convertible and coupe that offers a blend of performance and luxury. It is known for its sharp handling and powerful engine options.
Honda Passport
"I spent the week driving the recently redesigned 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport, and I can't wait to tell you all about it."
The 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport is a new version of Honda's SUV that is designed for off-road driving and has a tough look.
The 2026 Honda Passport Trail Sport is a redesigned midsize SUV known for its off-road capabilities and rugged styling, making it suitable for adventurous drivers.
BMW M340I
"... to hearing that. My test vehicle is the 2025 BMW M340i. Boy, I love this car, a little hint."
The BMW 3 Series is a small luxury car that is fun to drive and has nice features inside. It's popular among people who want a mix of style and performance.
The BMW 3 Series is a compact executive car that has been a staple in the BMW lineup since 1975. Known for its sporty handling and luxurious features, the 3 Series is often seen as a benchmark for performance sedans.
2025 BMW M340i
"My test vehicle is the 2025 BMW M340i. Boy, I love this car, a little hint."
The 2025 BMW M340i is a sporty version of BMW's 3 Series car, known for its strong engine and fun driving experience.
The 2025 BMW M340i is a performance-oriented version of the 3 Series sedan, featuring a powerful engine and sporty handling characteristics.
2027 Kia Telluride
"Tom Kearns is the designer of the 2027 Kia Telluride."
The 2027 Kia Telluride is a new version of Kia's family SUV that has a lot of space and is designed for families.
The 2027 Kia Telluride is an upcoming model of Kia's popular midsize SUV, known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features.
EV incentives
"Kia is offering $10,000 on every one of its EVs, everyone in its lineup. This comes after the company is looking to, we've lost the $7,500 tax credit."
EV incentives are discounts or rebates that help lower the price of electric cars. They are designed to encourage more people to buy electric vehicles by making them cheaper.
EV incentives are financial benefits offered by manufacturers or governments to encourage the purchase of electric vehicles. These can include discounts, tax credits, or rebates, aimed at making EVs more affordable for consumers.
tax credit
"This comes after the company is looking to, we've lost the $7,500 tax credit. So Kia is offering this and they're offering incentives on top of this."
A tax credit is money you can take off your tax bill. For electric cars, it means you can pay less in taxes if you buy one, making it cheaper for you.
A tax credit is an amount of money that taxpayers can subtract directly from the taxes they owe to the government. In the context of electric vehicles, it often refers to a federal incentive that reduces the overall cost of purchasing an EV.
electric vehicles (EVs)
"...a lot of investment in EV are worried about that too. And this is maybe the first salvo in that..."
Electric vehicles, or EVs, are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are usually better for the environment and can save money on fuel.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are cars that are powered entirely or partially by electricity instead of gasoline or diesel. They are known for being more environmentally friendly and often have lower operating costs.
Ford
"...this is Kia stepping up to the plate like Ford and a couple of others have done by adding discounts..."
Ford is a well-known car company from the United States that makes many types of vehicles, including electric ones.
Ford is an American automotive manufacturer famous for its trucks, SUVs, and electric vehicles. The company has been a significant player in the automotive industry for over a century.
Kia EV9
"...Nero EV, the EV6 and the three row EV9 are included among this..."
The EV6 is an electric car made by Kia. It's designed to be efficient and environmentally friendly, offering a modern alternative to traditional gas-powered vehicles.
The Kia EV6 is a fully electric crossover that offers a blend of performance, technology, and practicality. It is part of Kia's strategy to expand its electric vehicle lineup.
Kia EV6
"... but that's a whole different thing. Nero EV, the EV6 and the three row EV9 are included among this. Th..."
Nero EV
"...Nero EV, the EV6 and the three row EV9 are included among this..."
The Nero EV is a type of electric car, which means it runs on electricity instead of gasoline. It's part of a trend where more cars are being made to help the environment.
The Nero EV is an electric vehicle that represents a shift towards sustainable transportation. It is part of a growing segment of electric vehicles designed to meet consumer demand for eco-friendly options.
Chevrolet Corvette
"...d for me, because I love roadsters. I've got a 62 Corvette, which is, of course, a roadster. And it's a two-..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a fast and stylish sports car that many people love. It's known for being fun to drive and has a unique look that makes it stand out on the road.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. First introduced in 1953, it has become a symbol of American automotive engineering and is celebrated for its powerful engines and agile handling.
BMW M40I
"...em to be limited production. It's going to be the M40i model, and it's going to be a cool model."
The BMW X3 is a small SUV that is fancy and fun to drive. It has a lot of space for passengers and cargo, making it a good choice for families.
The BMW X3 is a compact luxury SUV that combines practicality with sporty performance. Since its introduction in 2003, it has been praised for its driving dynamics, upscale interior, and versatility for both city and off-road driving.
eight-speed Steptronic automatic
"You can get a six-speed manual or eight-speed steptronic automatic."
The eight-speed Steptronic automatic is a type of car transmission that can shift gears automatically or let you change gears manually if you want more control. It helps the car drive smoothly.
The eight-speed Steptronic automatic is a type of transmission used in BMW vehicles that allows for both automatic shifting and manual control. It provides smooth gear changes and enhances driving performance.
Toyota Supra
"...I like the Z4-based Toyota Supra, which is also going away after this cycle."
The Toyota Supra is a fast sports car that is built for performance. It has a strong engine and is fun to drive, but it's also not very practical for everyday use.
The Toyota Supra is a high-performance sports car that shares its platform with the BMW Z4. It's known for its powerful engine and agile handling, appealing to driving enthusiasts.
Mazda Miatas
"But a two-seat vehicle is just not very practical. I've had Miata's and I have had the Corvette forever. And very cool, but obviously you're"
The Mazda Miata is a small, two-seat car that you can drive with the top down. It's known for being fun to drive and is often considered a great choice for people who enjoy sporty cars.
The Mazda Miata is a lightweight two-seat convertible sports car that has gained a loyal following since its debut in 1989. Renowned for its engaging driving experience and affordability, the Miata is often praised for its balance and handling.
manual transmission
"I like that they've continued offering a manual transmission in the vehicle. It's a good manual."
A manual transmission is a system in cars where the driver has to change gears by hand, using a stick and a pedal. It gives the driver more control over how the car drives.
A manual transmission is a type of vehicle transmission that requires the driver to manually shift gears using a clutch pedal and gear stick. It provides more control over the vehicle's power and speed compared to automatic transmissions.
drag strips
"Yeah, you've seen many, many, many drag strips."
Drag strips are special tracks where cars race in a straight line to see who is faster. They are usually very short, like a quarter of a mile.
Drag strips are straight racetracks specifically designed for drag racing, where two vehicles race side by side over a short distance, usually a quarter-mile. They are built to accommodate high-speed racing and often have safety features to protect drivers.
hoon
"it gives us a safe place to go and hoon our cars instead of on the street."
'Hoon' is slang for driving fast and doing tricks with cars, often in a fun but risky way. It's something car enthusiasts enjoy doing, especially in safe places like racetracks.
The term 'hoon' refers to driving in a reckless or spirited manner, often associated with performance driving or car culture. It can involve activities like drifting, burnouts, or racing in a controlled environment like a track or drag strip.
Chevrolet Suburban
"...rt or something like that. It struck me as a fine suburban vehicle. Perfect."
The Chevrolet Suburban is a big SUV that can carry a lot of people and stuff. It's great for families or anyone who needs a lot of space for trips or activities.
The Chevrolet Suburban is a full-size SUV that has been in production since 1935, making it one of the longest-running vehicle nameplates. It is known for its spacious interior, powerful towing capacity, and versatility, making it a popular choice for families and those needing extra cargo space.
10-speed automatic transmission
"You get a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard."
A 10-speed automatic transmission is a type of gearbox that changes gears automatically and has ten different speeds. This helps the car run more smoothly and use less fuel.
A 10-speed automatic transmission allows for smoother shifting and better fuel efficiency by providing more gear options. It helps the engine operate at optimal RPMs for various driving conditions.
all-wheel drive
"You get a 10-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive as standard."
All-wheel drive means that power goes to all four wheels of the car, which helps it grip the road better, especially in rain or snow.
All-wheel drive (AWD) is a drivetrain system that distributes power to all four wheels of a vehicle. This enhances traction and stability, especially in adverse weather conditions or off-road situations.
nine-speed transmission
"Honda upgraded from a nine-speed transmission."
A nine-speed transmission is a system in a car that automatically changes gears and has nine different speeds. This helps the car drive better and use less gas.
A nine-speed transmission is a type of automatic gearbox that provides nine different gear ratios for improved performance and fuel efficiency compared to traditional automatic transmissions with fewer gears.
all-terrain tires
"...you get all-terrain tires. And while that doesn't give you a lot of extra ground clearance..."
All-terrain tires can be used on different types of roads and surfaces. They help vehicles grip better when driving on dirt, mud, or rocky paths, as well as on regular roads.
All-terrain tires are designed to perform well on a variety of surfaces, including both on-road and off-road conditions. They typically feature a tread pattern that provides better traction on loose or uneven surfaces, making them suitable for vehicles that may encounter rough terrain.
three-peak mountain snowflake rating
"although they're not three-peak, mountain, snowflake rated, whatever the term for that is."
The three-peak mountain snowflake rating shows that a tire is good for driving in snowy and icy conditions. If a tire has this rating, it means it can handle winter weather better than regular tires.
The three-peak mountain snowflake (3PMSF) rating indicates that a tire meets specific performance criteria for winter conditions, including traction on snow and ice. Tires with this rating are designed to provide better grip in severe winter weather compared to standard tires.
Honda Pilot
"I wouldn't call it a sports car or sporty by any means, but it's more controlled and tighter than the Honda Pilot, which is three rows over this one's two."
The Honda Pilot is a large SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's good for families and has a lot of space inside.
The Honda Pilot is a midsize SUV known for its spacious interior and family-friendly features. It typically offers three rows of seating and is designed for comfort and utility rather than sporty performance.
towing capacity
"I can tow up to 5,000 pounds and the Trail Sport model gets around 20..."
Towing capacity is how much weight a car can pull behind it, like a trailer or boat. It's important to know so you don't pull too much and damage the car.
Towing capacity refers to the maximum weight a vehicle can safely tow. It is an important specification for vehicles that are used for hauling trailers, boats, or other heavy loads.
MPG
"the Trail Sport model gets around 20, I'm sorry, 18 MPG in the city."
MPG means how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. The higher the number, the better the car is at saving fuel.
MPG stands for 'miles per gallon' and is a measure of fuel efficiency in vehicles. It indicates how many miles a car can travel on one gallon of fuel, with higher numbers meaning better fuel economy.
Toyota 4Runner
"although I think some competitors like the Toyota 4Runner"
The Toyota 4Runner is a tough SUV that can handle rough roads and off-road adventures. It's built to be strong and reliable for outdoor activities.
The Toyota 4Runner is a rugged midsize SUV known for its off-road capabilities and durability. It features a body-on-frame construction, making it suitable for adventurous driving.
digital gauge cluster
"...a 10.2 inch digital gauge cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Google built-in."
A digital gauge cluster is a screen that shows important information about the car, like speed and fuel level, instead of using traditional round dials. It can be easier to read and sometimes lets you change how the information looks.
A digital gauge cluster replaces traditional analog dials with digital displays, providing information like speed, fuel level, and navigation in a customizable format. This modern technology enhances readability and can offer additional features like navigation prompts.
Apple CarPlay
"...wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Google built-in. Honda's infotainment is easy enough to use."
Apple CarPlay lets you connect your iPhone to your car so you can use apps like maps and music on the car's screen. It makes it easier and safer to use your phone while driving.
Apple CarPlay is a feature that allows iPhone users to connect their devices to the car's infotainment system, enabling access to apps like navigation, music, and messaging through the car's display. It enhances convenience and safety by allowing hands-free operation.
Android Auto
"...wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto with Google built-in. Honda's infotainment is easy enough to use."
Android Auto lets you connect your Android phone to your car, so you can use apps like maps and music on the car's screen. It helps you stay connected while driving without being distracted.
Android Auto is similar to Apple CarPlay but designed for Android devices. It allows users to connect their smartphones to the car's infotainment system, providing access to apps and features like navigation and music in a user-friendly interface.
infotainment system
"...Honda's infotainment is easy enough to use. It's not super fancy looking."
An infotainment system is the part of the car that lets you listen to music, get directions, and connect your phone. It's like a mini computer for your car that helps you stay entertained and informed while driving.
An infotainment system combines entertainment and information functions in a vehicle, typically featuring audio, navigation, and connectivity options. It serves as the central hub for controlling various media and vehicle settings.
automatic emergency braking
"So you get forward collision warnings, automatic emergency braking."
Automatic emergency braking is a system that helps stop the car if it thinks you're about to crash. It works by applying the brakes for you if you don't react in time.
Automatic emergency braking is a safety feature that detects an impending collision and automatically applies the brakes to prevent or mitigate the impact. This technology can significantly reduce the severity of accidents.
blind spot monitoring
"And then this vehicle also has blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts."
Blind spot monitoring helps drivers see cars that are in areas they can't see in their mirrors. It warns you if there's a car nearby when you want to change lanes, making driving safer.
Blind spot monitoring is a safety feature that uses sensors to detect vehicles in the driver's blind spots and alerts the driver, typically with visual or audible warnings. This helps prevent accidents during lane changes.
rear cross-traffic alerts
"...with rear cross-traffic alerts. So, Jack, for my money, 53K, 54K is,..."
Rear cross-traffic alerts help you see cars coming from the sides when you're backing out of a parking spot. It warns you if there's a car approaching, so you can avoid accidents.
Rear cross-traffic alerts are a safety feature that warns drivers of approaching vehicles from the side when backing out of parking spaces. It uses sensors to detect traffic that may not be visible to the driver.
BMW M3
"That's a nice place to be. You don't get into M3 territory which is okay from your wallet standpoi..."
The BMW M3 is a super sporty version of a regular BMW car that is fun to drive fast. It has a powerful engine and is designed for people who love performance and luxury.
The BMW M3 is a high-performance version of the BMW 3 Series, designed for enthusiasts who seek a blend of luxury and sportiness. Known for its powerful engines and precise handling, the M3 has a storied history in motorsport and is often regarded as one of the best sports sedans.
Oldsmobile Curved Dash
"and central touch screen. You have this curved dash kind of thing that also incorporates digital inst..."
The Oldsmobile Curved Dash is one of the very first cars made in America, built over a hundred years ago. It has a special shape and is important in the history of cars.
The Oldsmobile Curved Dash, produced from 1901 to 1907, is recognized as one of the first mass-produced automobiles in America. Its unique design and historical significance make it a notable example of early automotive innovation.
Hyundai Palisade
"...'s a sister ship from Hyundai very similar to the Palisade. And you kind of vaulted past the Palisade in a b..."
The Hyundai Palisade is a roomy SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's designed to be comfortable and safe for families on the go.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that offers a spacious interior, advanced safety features, and a comfortable ride. Launched in 2018, it has quickly gained popularity for its value and family-friendly design.
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