“Sportier, more efficient” BMW 330e sedan plug-in hybrid

Superior driving dynamics and efficiency are key characteristics of the new BMW 3 Series sedan to be launched in 2019.

In the new BMW 330e sedan plug-in hybrid, the latest generation of BMW eDrive Technology is combined with a four-cylinder petrol engine to provide a significant increase in sporty flair as well as an even more intense electrically powered driving experience, the company says.

The first ever standard XtraBoost integrated in a BMW model temporarily increases the system output of the plug-in hybrid drive from 185kW with an addition of up to 30kW. This also increases its range compared to the predecessor model by 50%, so that 60km can be covered under electric power alone.

Fuel consumption and emission figures are reduced by more than 10% compared to the predecessor model to up to 1.7 litres per 100km and up to 39 grams per kilometre.

Intelligently controlled interaction between the electric motor and the combustion engine reaches a whole new level with increased efficiency and greater driving pleasure, the company says.

The plug-in hybrid system comprises a 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo Technology and an output of 135kW along with an electric motor which generates a continuous output of 50kW and a peak output of 83kW.

Together, the two drive units have a maximum system torque of 420Nm.

As a result, the new BMW 330e sedan accelerates to 100km/h in 6.0 seconds. Its top speed is 230km/h.

In Hybrid mode, it can reach 110km/h when running on electric power alone – 30km/h faster than the predecessor model.

In Electric mode, speeds of up to 140km/h are compared with 120km/h previously.

Activating Sport mode using the driving experience switch triggers the XtraBoost. In order to support the combustion engine in dynamic driving situations, the electric motor with XtraBoost temporarily provides up to 30kW – stored in the high-voltage battery – in addition to its continuous output.

For the first time in a BMW hybrid model, this includes an accelerator pedal curve that offers both maximum sporty flair and precision along with a specific shifting programme for the eight-speed Steptronic transmission complete with brake downshifts.

The hybrid-specific optional equipment features of the new BMW 330e include an acoustic pedestrian protection function.

The high-voltage battery in the new BMW 330e sedan is underneath the rear seats, while the fuel tank is above the rear axle. This means luggage compartment volume is only slightly restricted in the plug-in hybrid model. The storage volume of 375 litres can be expanded as required by folding the rear backrest with a 40:20:40 split.

New digital services will make it more convenient to charge the battery while out and about. When selecting a public charging station, the navigation system also provides the driver with a list of recommended nearby hotels, restaurants, cafés, tourist attractions and cultural institutions. Charging station availability can also be checked using the vehicle display and operating system.