The BMW 330e is one of the finest plug-in hybrid cars on the market. The combination of gas and battery pack makes it more powerful than the regular BMW 3-Series. Aside from that, it drives like a standard 3-Series but with better efficiency, additional range, and powerful acceleration.
In 2021, BMW 330e accounted for around 25% of all 3-Series sales in the UK. This is a tremendous feat, considering this car is slightly costlier than the standard BMW 3-Series. One of the main reasons why the BMW 330e is doing well is because of the great balance of power, luxury, and efficiency that it provides.
History of the BMW 330e
The BMW 330e is a compact executive sedan under the BMW 3-Series. The BMW 3-Series has been in the market since 1975. It is also the successor of the 02-Series and it’s currently in its seventh generation. The 330e was first produced in the sixth generation, which is from 2016 to date.
The BMW 330e is the first plug-in hybrid model in the BMW 3-Series. This car is manufactured at the San Luis Potosi plant in Mexico. Today, the 330e is among the best-selling BMW plug-in hybrid models on the market.
Features of the BMW 330e
Appearance
When it comes to exterior looks, a few plug-in hybrid models can boast to have a better appearance than the BMW 330e. Unlike other Plug-in Hybrid models on the market, you cannot tell whether the latest BMW 330e is a hybrid car or not. BMW changed the design of the latest models and they look just like regular 3-Series.
Exterior looks aside, the BMW 330e also comes with a spacious, luxurious, and high-end interior. It also has some of the latest technological features and the infotainment system is very intuitive.
Performance
The BMW 330e comes with two trim levels. It has the base 330e plug-in hybrid sedan that is fitted with a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 hybrid engine with 8-speed automatic transmission. This engine delivers up to 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque.
The second trim is the 330e xDrive plug-in hybrid sedan, which is also fitted with a 2.0-liter turbo inline-4 hybrid engine with 8-speed automatic transmission. It also delivers up to 288 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque but it has an all-wheel-drive system, instead of the rear-wheel-drive system. It is also costlier.
Comfort and Cargo space
Aside from the exceptional performance, the BMW 330e is also a comfortable and spacious car. This is because it comes with a spacious cabin and has ample cargo area. Not only is it a five-seater, but it also has ample legroom and headroom in the front and rear of the car. And with 13.2 cubic feet of cargo space, this is a great car for a family.
Fuel efficiency
As stated earlier, the BMW 330e is a very efficient car. Thanks to the combination of gasoline power and battery power that provides an additional 30 miles. This car comes with an EPA rating of 25 mpg in the city, 34 mpg on the highway, and a combined 28 mpg. This is better than the standard BMW 3-Series EPA rating.
Price
Being a plug-in hybrid sedan, the BMW 330e is slightly costlier than the standard BMW 3-Series. This car has a base price of about $42,300, but this can go up if you pick the BMW xDrive trim, instead of the base trim. Nevertheless, it is worth every penny as it offers a better range and efficiency.
FAQ
Is the BMW 330e worth buying?
It depends on what you desire. If you’re ready to pay some extra cash to get a better range, efficiency, power, exceptional performance, luxury, and comfort, the BMW 330e is a great plug-in hybrid car to have. But if you’re not ready to spend to get or maintain a luxury sedan, this is not the car for you.
Is the BMW 330e reliable?
If you’re comparing the BMW 330e with other BMWs, then this is a very reliable car. However, if you’re comparing the BMW 330e with other cars in its class, you will find that it is not so reliable. However, it is rated slightly above-average reliability, which is a good feat considering most BMWs fall below-average reliability.
What is the difference between BMW 330e and 330i?
The main difference between the BMW 330e and 330i is that the 330e is a plug-in hybrid model, while the 330i is a gasoline-powered car. Another difference is that the 330e is more powerful than the 330i as it delivers a maximum of 292 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, while its counterpart produces 258 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque.
What are some of the common problems of the BMW 330e?
The BMW 330e is an excellent plug-in hybrid sedan that offers power, luxury, and efficiency. However, it also has several issues that people who intend to invest in them should be aware of. Some of these issues are failure to start, battery not charging well, door trimming rubbing the door, and drivetrain problems.
More about BMW 330e problems.
Which car is better – BMW 330e or Volvo V60 recharge?
BMW 330e and Volvo V69 recharge are two excellent hybrid cars. However, the Volvo V60 offers more than the BMW 330e. The BMW 330e may be more luxurious with high-end features, but the Volvo V60 Recharge is more powerful and spacious.
Besides, the Volvo V60 Recharge comes with an all-wheel-drive, while the BMW 330e comes with a rear-wheel-drive as standard. Yes, both cars seat up to five people, but Volvo has better cabin space. What’s more, Volvo has better fuel economy and charges faster than the BMW 330e.
So, depending on your taste, preference, and budget, both of these cars are outstanding. Note that the Volvo V60 Recharge is quite costlier than the BMW 330e. The base price of the BMW is about $42,300, while the Volvo V60 Recharge goes for around $67,300.
Final thoughts
If you’re in the market for a reliable, powerful, efficient, and luxury plug-in hybrid sedan, the BMW 330e should be on top of your list. Despite being slightly costly, this luxury sedan offers an exceptional range, comfort, technology, and luxurious features. It is also powerful, although it also has some common issues.
Overall, the BMW 330e is a worthy investment as it is also fuel-efficient but with an added range. And since it can accommodate up to five people with ample cargo space, this is a very practical car.