BMW is set to further electrify its iconic 3 Series model lineup with the updated plug-in hybrid 330e and 330e xDrive sedans. The new PHEVs will play off of the 3 Series’ signature design, sharp handling, and dynamic equipment. BMW has coined this lineup as the heart of its brand.

Brand new 4-cylinder PHEV powertrain with Xtraboost enhancement 

The 330e and 330e xDrive sedans powertrain consist of a high voltage system that powers the electric motor combined with an internal combustion engine. The turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generates a 181-horsepower and 58 lb-ft of torque while the electric motor contributes to a 107-horsepower and 77 lb-ft of torque. Together, the power sources produce a 288-horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque with XtraBoost.

What makes Xtraboost so special you might ask? Well, with the available Sport mode, Xtraboost will get you an additional 40-horsepower increase for up to 10 seconds. The electrified 330e can reach 60mph in 5.6 seconds, and the 330e xDrive will get you there in 5.7 seconds.

The 330e model offers a 22-mile fully electric range while the xDrive model offers a 20-mile electric range. Both sedans have an electronically curbed max speed of 130 mph when you pair them with all-season tires. Additionally, the 330e model can reach 142 mph with summer performance tires while the xDrive model can reach 140 mph.

With the hybrid mode, the new models can reach 68 mph solely on battery power which is a 19 mph increase from the previous versions. The fuel-free electric mode now offers a top speed of 87 mph which is a slight bump from the previous 75 mph. Fortunately, the positioning of the high voltage battery under the rear seats makes for a better electric-only driving experience.

Additional Charging Solutions

BMW is also working to expand charging availability for drivers in 2020 by creating more public charging stations. This expansion will also include an easier way for drivers to find the public charging stations based on their location. Also, BMW has partnered with Amazon to create a designated platform for you to purchase your own home charging station.  No matter which one you choose, you’ll also have the option to have it professionally installed if you’d like. The big highlight here is that you can have the 240v Level 2 home charging unit professionally installed which can charge up your vehicle about 7 times faster than the standard 120v charger.

Safety Features 

The standard safety systems on the new 3 Series PHEVS include BMW’s active guard, which is the carmaker’s autonomous braking system. Other safety features include frontal collision warning, city collision mitigation, and lane departure warning to prevent crashes and keep you on the right path. Opt for the driving assistance package and you can get additional functions like blind-spot detection, rear collision protection, and cross-traffic alert which work to help you see what’s going on behind your car.

Coming Soon

The new 330e and xDrive models are still expected to hit dealerships this May. The base price for the 330e model starts at $45,545 and the xDrive will start at $47,545.