Review: BMW 330e plug-in hybrid

BMW proves plug-in hybrid cars needn’t switch off the driving fun.

BMW engineers put one of their acclaimed sports saloon and a futuristic plug-in electric car into a mixer. Out popped the 330e. It’s an ingenious car that is a masterpiece of lateral thinking.

A regular 182bhp 2.0-litre turbo engine, driving the rear wheels, is paired with an eight-speed automatic. But BMW has replaced the bit that connects the gearbox to the engine with an 87bhp electric motor, and dropped in a lithium ion battery beneath the boot floor.

The result is 249bhp, a healthy 310lb ft of torque, and a 0-62mph time of just over six seconds. Not bad for a car that can also do 25 miles in full EV mode, emits a scant 44g/km of CO2 and thus commands a paltry 7% benefit in kind tax rate for fleet drivers. They’ll find it more tax-efficient than a diesel Fiat Tipo costing half the price.

Even the government likes it, and will give you a £2500 grant if you pick one over a 330i or 330d – taking the sticker price to below both of them. Best not let on that the reality of a cold November morning commute turned that predicted 25-mile electric-only range into a less-impressive 14 miles…

By and large, though, the 330e doesn’t disappoint. The petrol engine is a nice mix of silence in low-demand mode and eager throb when driven harder. The electric motor fills in any holes in power delivery and the overall feel is tremendously sophisticated and cohesive. It’s one of the most well-rounded powertrains you can get in any BMW, we reckon.

The classic BMW handling prowess is there too, and is not upset by the added heavy batteries in the back. It’s as good as any other 3 Series, although it has to be said our test car was particularly cleverly specced. It had standard Sport-trim wheels and steering, matched with optional lowered M Sport suspension.

This delivered flat cornering, excellent body control and lovely steering. There’s enough grip, but not so much as to smother the feel and feedback, and even the extra firmness of the M Sport ride doesn’t ruin it – only over the sharpest of edges will you feel it’s perhaps a touch too stiff.

It’s such a talented car, it makes it all the more frustrating it’s likely to prove so hard to come by. BMW will only carry limited stocks of the 330e, compared to the 330i and 330d, such is worldwide demand for this car. But if you can get hold of one, you won’t be disappointed.

It’s a clever, fuel-efficient and very advanced car to drive, that still carries some of the spirit found in, say, a 1990s BMW 328i. It’s a 3 Series that’s enhanced by technology, not ruined by it, and for that, we – and enthusiasts everywhere – salute BMW.

BMW 330e iPerformance Sport

Price £34,475
Engine 4 cyls, 1998cc, turbocharged, petrol, plus 87bhp electric motor
Power 249bhp
Torque 310lb ft
Gearbox 8-spd automatic
Kerb weight 1660kg
0-62mph 6.1sec
Top speed 140mph
Economy 148.7mpg (combined)
CO2/tax band 44g/km, 7%