BMW is expanding the range of its successful new 3-Series in the United Kingdom by introducing new versions of the car. There’s the 320i xDrive, ActiveHybrid 3 and M Sport models joining the lineup from July, and later in the year new EfficientDynamics models; 316i and 320i. The 3-Series is renowned for its superior handling and dynamics compared to the rivals. The current gen also looks interesting. It’s a natural winner.
The hybrid BMW 3 Series is powered by a a system consisting of the famous TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine coupled to a 40kW (55hp) electric motor. With a total output of 340hp and 450Nm, the car does 0 to 60mph in an impressive 5.3 seconds, while offering a combined fuel consumption of 47.9mpg and CO2 emissions of 139g/km. It’s fantastic.
What’s more it can be driven solely on electricity for 2.4 miles and up to 37mph, for when you just want to pop down the shops for a pint of milk. The car also has a 390 liters boot and a spacious sporty interior. All this great stuff come a a price though; £40,225.
The new xDrive version of the 3-Series might sound pointless – why would you need four-wheel-drive in a sports sedan – but it’s a very useful commodity for UK buyers. It will enable them to be fast and secure when it’s pouring with rain. Available initially on the 320i and powered by the 184hp TwinPower Turbo 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine, the xDrive 3er costs from £27,400.
Performance-wise, the xDrive 320i SE goes from 0 to 60mph in a respectable 7.4 seconds and has fuel consumption and CO2 figures of 41.5mpg and 159g/km CO2. If you opt for the eight-speed transmission fuel economy goes up to 43.5mpg.
As for the M Sport package, it is now available across all variants of the BMW 3 Series Saloon for £3,000 over the cost of the SE model and includes 8-inch M Star-spoke alloy wheels, M Sport suspension and M aerodynamic body styling with High-gloss Shadowline exterior trim. Dakota leather upholstery is standard alongside a unique M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel, Anthracite headlining, M Sport seats and M designation door sill finishers.
