2017 BMW 330e iPerformance plugs in to US market (pictures)
BMW's i3 and i8 plug-in technology has trickled down to its high-volume 3 Series.
The 330e iPerformance has three different eDrive modes.
It's largely indistinguishable from other 3 Series models.
BMW's 330e iPerformance starts at $44,695 in the US.
The 330e iPerformance offers 14 miles of EV-only range.
While it's not expected to be a huge model volume-wise, that doesn't mean it's not important to BMW's portfolio.
The 3 Series is a ubiquitous fixture on the world's roads.
Urban-cycle driving is where the 330e iPerformance will likely be at its most efficient.
0-60 happens in 5.9 seconds, not that you should attempt such feats in the city.
Top speed is listed at 140 mph.
The 330e iPerformance is expected in dealers this spring.
The 330e musters a 75-mph electric-only top speed.
At least for the moment, the 330e iPerformance will be rear-wheel drive only. No xDrive model has been announced.
Inside looks largely standard-issue 3 Series.
It's not immediately clear if BMW will offer the same level of personalization with the 330e's interior as it does with other 3 Series models.
This particular model's cabin looks a bit dour in black, leavened only by silver trim bits.
Despite the additional hybrid guts, BMW has preserved the 3 Series' fold-down rear seats.
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder seen here is also found in the lowest-priced 3 Series, the 320i.
You can have any transmission you want, as long as it's an eight-speed automatic.
"iPerformance" badges apparently didn't fit on the trunk lid, so BMW wisely limited this model's call-out to "330e."
The 330e's battery can be charged in roughly 30 minutes with the company's 240-volt Level II charger.
The 330's 7.6-kWh battery is built from lithium-ion cells.
A standard 120-volt outlet will take a 6-7 hours to fully charge the 330e's battery.
The 330e's front fender charge port is one of the only ways you'll be able to recognize this PHEV 3 Series on the street.
Between its gas engine and its electric powertrain, total system output sits at 247 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque.
A home charging station will cost extra.
BMW's twin-kidney grille continues to dominate the 3 Series' face.
The eDrive mode selector sits adjacent to the gearshift lever on the center console.