Shown are the 2021 BMW 330e and 330e xDrive PHEV with 20 miles of electric range.

Posted on March 26, 2020
Luxury
Shown are the 2021 BMW 330e and 330e xDrive PHEV with 20 miles of electric range.

BMW continues to expand the 3 Series lineup with new hybrid models BMW unveiled the rear-wheel-drive 2021 BMW 330e and the all-wheel-drive 330e xDrive on Thursday.

Both models are equipped with the same powertrains: 2.0-liter turbo four and an eight-speed automatic transmission, paired with a single electric motor and a 12 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The system has a combined output of 248 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. In Sport mode, pressing the gas pedal above the kickdown position activates the XtraBoost function, which adds 40 hp for 10 seconds.

EPA estimated range of 22 miles for the 330e and 20 miles for the 330e xDrive BMW estimates that the 330e and 330e xDrive will achieve 75 MPGe combined and 67 MPGe combined, respectively BMW says top speed in electric mode will be up to 87 mph, compared to 75 miles in regular mode.

In hybrid mode, BMW says the 330e accelerates from 0 to 60 mph 5.6 seconds slower, while the xDrive version is 0.1 seconds slower. With standard all-season tires, both models accelerate to 130 mph electronically. The sedan can also be equipped with summer tires, with top speeds of 142 mph for the 330e and 140 mph for the 330e xDrive. These sport tires are part of the optional Dynamic Handling package, which includes M sport brakes, M adaptive suspension, and sport steering.

3-Series plug-in hybrids are equipped with BMW's Digital Key, which allows you to use your smartphone instead of a traditional key fob. Holding the smartphone near the door handle unlocks it, and placing it on the tray in the center console starts the car. However, this feature is only compatible with certain Samsung Galaxy smartphones running Android 8.0 and above. BMW, on the other hand, does not offer Android Auto, but does have Apple CarPlay.

Other available technologies include BMW's Intelligent Personal Assistant voice control system, gesture control, and head-up display.

Like other 3 Series models, the plug-in hybrid also offers a number of driver assistance systems. Adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning are standard, while parking distance control and a more advanced adaptive cruise control system that can bring the car to a complete stop and then start it up again are options.

Prices start at $45,545 for the 330e and $47,545 for the 330e xDrive, with both models going on sale in the U.S. in May. Both prices include a $995 destination delivery fee. It should be noted that BMW had previously planned to release a 3 Series electric car, but that model has likely been replaced by the i4, which is due to go on sale in 2021.

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