BMW three: PHEV gets more range and higher charging speed
BMW is revamping the three-wheeler once again. The plug-in hybrid in particular benefits significantly from this.
(Image: BMW)
The current generation of the BMW 3 Series has been on the market since 2019. There was a thorough facelift in 2022. If you look at the model cycles of the past, the current generation should last another two years or so on the market. However, BMW is giving the model series another helping hand, adding an updated infotainment system and finally improving the plug-in hybrid.
The ninth generation of the operating system is currently being introduced in many BMW model series. This would have required different hardware in the three-wheeler - an expense that the Group is saving itself. Instead, OS8.5 has been retained, and the difference to OS9 on the user interface is minimal. However, the newer system can be expanded in many ways.
Plug-in hybrid upgraded
BMW has also significantly upgraded the remaining plug-in hybrid. The 320e has disappeared from the range, at least at this time, leaving only the 330e. It can be ordered as a saloon and estate with rear or all-wheel drive. After years of criticism regarding range and charging performance, BMW is finally improving both. The battery has an energy content of 19.5 kWh instead of 11.13 kWh. The combined range in the WLTP is specified as up to 101 km (330e Sedan). At the same time, BMW is increasing the charging capacity. Previously the limit was 3.7 kW, now three-phase charging with 11 kW is possible as standard. An empty battery should be fully charged again in two hours and 15 minutes. BMW is catching up with some of its competitors in AC charging. However, some of them are already further ahead and offer the option of charging with direct current, at least for an extra charge. Mercedes and VW offer up to 50 kW.
BMW 3 Facelift 2024 (9 Bilder)
(Bild: BMW )
The BMW three: an expensive car
Driving a new three-wheeler has never been cheap. The saloon now costs at least 46,400, the Touring 47,700 euros. Compared to the model before the revision, this means a surcharge of 1200 euros for the notchback and 1400 for the estate. A plug-in hybrid in the estate costs at least 63,900 euros and, as has been the case at BMW for many years, this is only the starting point. Especially as BMW is also increasingly pursuing a policy of withholding certain extras from the base model or only offering them in packages. The head-up display is only available in the innovation package, which means an extra charge of almost 3000 euros. A black headliner is only available if you order the M Sport package. If you want to charge your smartphone wirelessly, you have to order the Comfort package. For a very well-equipped 330e, more than 75,000 euros is quickly exceeded. That's a lot of money, but the target group seems to be on board.
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(mfz)