The BMW 330e occupies an enchanting area within the model’s lineup — one which by no means fairly obtained the eye it deserved. Caught between the standard combustion-powered 330i and the all-electric i4, the plug-in hybrid 3 Collection promised one of the best of each worlds: basic BMW dynamics with a sprinkling of plug-in energy. But, regardless of its technical prowess and real-world versatility, it was typically ignored by fans chasing horsepower or these embracing full electrification.
That’s unlucky, as a result of the 330e greater than lived as much as each expectations and its badging. It proved that effectivity didn’t have to return on the expense of driving enjoyment, and that hybrid energy might improve, relatively than dilute, BMW’s signature character. Beneath its understated exterior was one of many model’s most full fashionable powertrains — environment friendly, succesful, and surprisingly participating.
A Balanced Hybrid Powertrain
Very similar to the 330e’s first technology, the G20 330e married a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine to an electrical motor and battery. The ensuing 288 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque is an enchancment from the automotive’s predecessor, the F30 technology 330e. Or, because it was then recognized, the 330e iPerformance. That automotive used comparable {hardware}, additionally using “Xtraboost” perform that locks some horsepower away in common driving conditions. Whereas 250-ish horsepower for around-town driving won’t sound like so much — particularly juxtaposed with the high-octane M340i (now making 386 horsepower) or fire-breathing M3 — it’s definitely sufficient for a “common” 3 Collection. Whereas the added energy didn’t add a lot zip to the automotive in comparison with the common 330i, it did sufficient to counterbalance the load of the added powertrain parts. Moreover, the graceful electrical energy supply offers the 330e’s powertrain an much more linear really feel.
And, keep in mind, the 330e is a PHEV. Earlier than the automotive was unceremoniously axed within the U.S., the 330e supplied just a little over 20 miles of electric-only driving vary. However in the remainder of the world, a refresh for 2024 noticed vary improve to a whopping 63 miles. Granted, this was measured by way of WLTP, not EPA estimates, however it nonetheless represents a 30-mile improve from the previous EU check numbers. Apart from, whereas clearly 60+ miles of vary is outstanding, even the smaller quantity was good. Particularly contemplating the true lack of PHEV sedans within the market; you’re actually caught stepping as much as the Porsche Panamera hybrid or bigger 5 Collection hybrid. For these with a brief commute, the 330e was excellent for the job.
Identical Nice 3 Collection Seems and Precision
Like one of the best PHEV BMW presently makes, the X5 xDrive50e, the 330e does little to showcase its “hybridness” to the world. Whereas the charging flap was a lifeless giveaway, and a few fashions had an additional badge and tweaked roundel design, there have been no different vital adjustments to the hybrid 3 Collection. Because of this, the 330e largely appears the identical as some other G20 on the highway — an excellent factor. You can even deck it out with M Sport goodies in the event you so desired. Beneath all of it, the 330e advantages from all the identical chassis engineering that went into the common BMW 3 Collection, too. So it’s simply as a lot enjoyable to drive as a fuel mannequin.
The 330e, at the very least in America, will at all times be unfairly appraised. Lovers snubbed it in favor of the faster M340i. In the meantime, loads of drivers opted for an all-electric i4, which was technically a better option as long as you had the EV infrastructure challenges dealt with (i.e., a charger at house/work). However simply because there are higher selections for area of interest use circumstances doesn’t imply the 330e can’t stand by itself. In truth, it does so admirably. I sincerely hope European (and presumably another markets) drivers are having fun with their 330e. The advanced, higher-range model is arguably probably the greatest fashionable BMWs cash should purchase.
