Plug-in hybrids have become part of our lives and are seen by some as the better alternative to both ICE-powered and electric vehicles. One of the cars to offer the best of two worlds is the latest BMW 330e, which combines a 2.0-liter turbo-four with an electric motor.
The petrol-powered unit delivers 184 PS (181 hp / 135 kW), whereas the electric motor pushes out 68 PS (67 hp / 50 kW) on a constant basis, with a peak of 109 PS (107 hp / 80 kW). The combined system output is 252 PS (248 hp / 185 kW) and 420 Nm (309 lb-ft) of torque, which allows it to cover the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.0 seconds and hit a max speed of 230 km/h (143 mph).
Also Watch: BMW 330e Takes On Mercedes C350e In All-PHEV Luxury Battle
Located under the rear seats is a 12 kWh battery, which takes 6 hours to charge using a household socket or around 3.5 hours from a wall box. In Electric mode, the 330e can travel for up to 60 km (37 miles) at speeds up to 140 km/h (87 mph). Should you constantly charge the battery, then you’re looking at an estimated 2.0 l/100 km (141 mpg UK / 118 mpg US) and carbon dioxide emissions of under 40 g/km.
Generous output and zero-emission capability aside, this is still a rear-wheel drive 3-Series, with sporty driving dynamics unmatched by the Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class. It’s also nicely specced, with standard 10-inch infotainment system, reversing camera, 3-zone climate control and front and rear parking sensors, and can sit two adults in comfort on the rear bench. The boot capacity is slightly smaller compared to the regular G20, but the plug-in hybrid estate is coming next year to solve that problem.