BMW 330e XDrive has an electric twist. In fact, the “e” in its name does denote that this 3 Series is the plug-in hybrid version of the four-door sedan. Also, the 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder is under the hood. Moreover, this BMW has an electric motor that is fed by a lithium-ion battery pack.
BMW 330e xDrive – PHEV Benefits
There is still plenty of merit to owning a PHEV which offers the benefits of traditional gasoline engine motoring. This is while you still let your toes dip into the electric lifestyle. However, full battery electric vehicles are the solution for many folks. Then, just as the EVs have proven time and again, also going for a PHEV does not automatically mean they are boring or slow.
Also, the boosted four-cylinder does make a respectable 181 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque on its own. This is combined with the electric motor. It would individually make 107 hp and 77 lb-ft of torque. Then the total system output is 288 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque. Those figures are higher than what the standard 330i is for comparing both. There is, in fact, a caveat. The high 288 horsepower figure is only achievable using the XtraBoost feature. It is activating in Sport mode with a full-throttle application. Also, just like other 3 Series models, this one does sport an eight-speed automatic transmission to, moreover, handle shifting duties.
Also, for the electric side of this equation, a 12.0 kWh battery pack which is located under the rear seats, does provide energy to the electric motor. Then, fully charging, the 330e X-Drive is EPA-rating for 20 miles of electric-only driving. There is a top speed under electric power of 87 mph.
It’s worth having an extra-long look whenever there is new 3 Series. Also, it may not even be the most engaging or driver-focused sports sedan out there anymore. There is a measuring stick by which every other four-door luxury sedan is measuring. There is a generation of 3 Series which is now a couple of years old now, but that doesn’t make it any less important in this highly competitive segment.
