One of the most intriguing models in the new 3 Series lineup is the BMW 330e, the premium, midsize plugin hybrid. We were just in Germany driving the 330e so we used that opportunity for a photoshoot with the car. Shown here is the 330e in Frozen Dark Grey paired with a brown interior and the M Sport Package. There are also photos of a Tanzanite Blue II model.
At a first glance, you would have to look twice to distinguish the BMW 330e from the ordinary 3 Series. The only clues are the additional flap on the front left fender and the 330e lettering on the boot. Previously used elements such as the “e” lettering on the C-pillar, partially blue kidneys or a blue border of the BMW logo in the middle of the wheels are obviously a thing of the past.
The powertrain consists of a 2.0 liter turbocharged engine that makes 184 hp. The electric motor that’s integrated into the eight-speed automatic makes an additional 68 hp. Those two combine for 252 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, which is only up 5 hp over the previous-gen car and equal torque.
Though there’s an overboost function, dubbed XtraBoost, which adds an additional, and temporary, 41 hp. That XtraBoost function can be engaged and used up until the battery reaches its minimum battery charge status. It also functions as the car’s “kick down” while in the gear selectors “M/S” mode.
According to BMW, the new 330e gets a combined 1.7 liters per 100 km, but more on the real world fuel economy on August 24th when the driving embargo expires. We’re also still waiting for EPA figures to be announced, but BMW claims the 330e’s electric range has been increased by 50 percent. On the European test cycle, that means it’s rated to go 60 kilometers (about 37 miles) on a single charge.
Until the review comes out, here is a photo gallery:
