The folks at Fully Charged are known for their video reviews of eco-friendly with a focus on electric and plug-in hybrids, so when they publish a review, the world pays attention. Their latest video features the new 2017 330e, BMW’s first plug-in hybrid 3 Series and one of the best buys in their lineup today. Just last year Car and Driver said the “330e is a sparkling performer” and now the UK folks at Fully Charged also praise the 3er hybrid.
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For the BMW 330e, it gets a 2.0 liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine up front with an 87 hp electric motor that drive an eight-speed automatic. We’ve driven the BMW 330e, as well as the other iPerformance hybrids, and are used to their charms. The switch between gas and electric is seamless, with only the tachometer giving the switch away. With both powertrains running, the BMW 330e can get from 0-60 mph in 6.1 seconds, fastest in the test, thanks to its 249 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. When running on pure electricity, it can go 23 miles thanks to its 7.6 kWh battery. Its combined fuel economy is 148.7mpg.
BMW 330e iPerformance drivers can choose from three BMW eDrive-specific programs – AUTO eDRIVE, MAX eDRIVE and SAVE BATTERY – via the eDrive button in the center console. These settings allow the plug-in hybrid drive system to be adapted to the way the car is being used at any point in time.
The 330e is the fourth model to be built using the innovative plug-in hybrid technology, after the X5 xDrive40e, 330e, 740Le and i8. The 330e sedan starts at $44,795 in the United States.
Here is the review:
I really wish there was a fully electric version too, after the i3 I will never ever buy a ICE car again. Next gen for sure.
225xe is another BMW PHEV, so five of them.
There is no way this car can do 23 miles. It just about manages half that. Dissapointing.
Talk about a consumer-grade review. Not to sound mean but that gentleman looked like he’d never driven a car before. He was utterly confused by the shifter, and general operation. Interesting change of pace from Top Gear and Carfection reviews.