New BMW ActiveHybrid 3 with 335hp Priced from US$49,300* [86 Photos]

The expansion of the new BMW 3-Series (F30) range in the U.S. continues with the ActiveHybrid 3 model, pricing of which was announced today ahead of the beginning of sales this fall.

The first-ever hybrid version of the 3-Series carries an MSRP of $49,300 (€39,800), excluding an $895 destination and handling fee (*) that raises the price to $50,195.

The ActiveHybrid 3’s powertrain blends the 335i’s TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder and 8-speed Steptronic automatic transmission with an electric motor powered by a high-voltage battery.

The 335i’s output is already 300hp and 300 lb-ft, but with an electric motor helping out, those figures are lifted to 335bhp (340PS) and 332 lb-ft (450Nm), an increase of 13 percent and 11 percent respectively.

The synchronous electric motor develops a maximum output of 55hp and a constant peak torque of 155 lb-ft from a standing start.

BMW says that in addition to the power boost, the electric motor can drive the ActiveHybrid 3 by itself for speeds up to 45 mph (70 km/h) and for a distance up to 2.5 miles (four kilometers).

The ActiveHybrid 3 is capable of a 0-60mph (96km/h) acceleration time of 4.8 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph (250km/h) when fitted with performance tires.

By comparison, the $42,800 (excluding handling and destination) 335i sedan with the automatic transmission completes 0-60mph in 5.1 seconds while topping out at 155mph.

The Bavarian company has not yet announced fuel economy figures for the U.S. model.

Across the pond, BMW says the ActiveHybrid 3 has an average fuel consumption of 6.4 lt/100 km (36.7 mpg US), but keep in mind, this is on the European combined driving cycle which is not the same as EPA estimates.

On the outside, the hybrid variant can be identified by the “ActiveHybrid 3” lettering on its C-pillars, exclusive 18-inch Streamline alloy wheels and matt chrome exhaust tailpipes.

Inside, there’s a selection of bespoke touches such as the “ActiveHybrid 3” lettering on the front door sills and on the gear lever knob in the center console, and the rev counter area that includes graphics detailing the electric motor’s boost function as well as the energy flow and recuperation display.

In the U.S., the ActiveHybrid 3 can also be ordered with the Sport, Modern or Luxury lines as well as the M Sport line.

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