BMW ActiveHybrid 3: Specs, Price & Review



The world’s first compact premium sports sedan with full hybrid drive, BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is the extension of the new BMW 3-Series (F30) range in the United States. The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is very economical with a modern and powerful look as well as it seems to be faster than the BMW 335i.

Image source: autoblog.com

The price tag of the first-ever hybrid version of the 3-Series in the U.S. showrooms will be priced at $49,300 (€39,800), excluding an $895 destination and handling fee (*) which increases the price to $50,195. Moreover, the car can be even ordered with the Sport, Modern or Luxury lines in addition to the M Sport line in the U.S. Let’s take a look on the key features and technical specifications of the BMW ActiveHybrid 3.

TwinPower Turbo 6

After the BMW ActiveHybrid 5, the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is the 2nd hybrid model from company to utilize an in-line 6-cylinder engine in its powertrain. The international “Engine of the Year” award had been won by the engine for two years in a row. It features the identical 6-cylinder unit set up in the BMW 335i, though the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 boasts mainly impressive acceleration through the e-boost function. This is supplied with an electric motor that is built into the 8-speed automatic gearbox. The output of 335i is already 300hp and 300 lb-ft, however by an electric motor helping out, those figures are raised to 335bhp (340PS) and 332 lb-ft (450Nm), a boost of 13 % and 11 % respectively. The 6-cylinder powerplant’s BMW TwinPower Turbo technology contains High Precision Direct Injection, a twin-scroll turbocharger as well as VALVETRONIC fully variable valve timing. This technology pack up improves throttle response and revving capability in addition to refinement and efficiency, whereas an aluminum crankcase even optimizes weight.

Electric motor

Better efficiency together with improved dynamics in the BMW ActiveHybrid 3, thanks to the blend of an award-winning combustion engine and an inventive electric drive. A maximum output of 55hp (41 kW) and a continuous peak torque of 155 lb-ft (210 Nm) from a standing start are being developed by the synchronous electric motor. Besides the power boost, the electric motor is capable of powering the ActiveHybrid 3 in all-electric mode for speeds up to 45 mph (70 km/h) and for a distance up to 2.5 miles (4 kilometers). ActiveHybrid 3 will be able to deliver 0 to 62 mph (0-100 kmph) in only a matter of 5.3 seconds, under united ICE/electric power. When fitted with performance tires, the sedan’s governed top speed is 155 mph (250 km/h).

A very sporty driving can be supported by the direct downshift capability and extremely short shift times. So as to exploit the prospective of the BMW ActiveHybrid technology, the intelligent energy management of the power electronics uses a horde of innovative functions to make the drive system runs well. The electric motor is efficiently incorporated within the housing of the 8-speed automatic transmission, and is associated to the transmission by a clutch. The cooling system of the internal combustion engine controls its operating temperature. The transmission combines a broad gear range by means of close ratio spacing, with its eight speeds. As well, it permits more use to be made of top gear, for a fuel-efficient, low-rpm driving style.

Interior design

In the interior, there is a choice of bespoke touches like the “ActiveHybrid 3” lettering on the entry sills and on the cover of the gear selection lever. The inner of the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 with optionally presented Modern Line amazes by means of its high-quality materials. The sensation of a cockpit is being produced by the classical driver orientation. Hybrid-specific gauges on the Instrument panel and Control Display together with noteworthy operating functions are perfectly situated for access. All design lines meet at the back of the steering wheel, hence guiding the driver’s view onto the road. An alteration of decorative surfaces and grain emphasizes the driver’s section on one side of the asymmetrical centre console.

Exterior design

One glance of its exterior is sufficient to disclose that the new BMW ActiveHybrid 3 stands for innovative drive systems and efficient dynamics. The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 has a modern and powerful facade enthused by the rich model history of the BMW 3 Series. On the outer surface, the hybrid variant could be recognized by the “ActiveHybrid 3” lettering on its C-pillars, special 18-inch Streamline alloy wheels as well as matt chrome exhaust tailpipes. Accurately guided, ascending contours in conjunction with the forward-striving front that sweepingly adjusts into the bonnet stand for pure dynamics.

Lithium-ion battery

A lithium ion high-performance battery pack sits in the trunk, and it is organized of 96 individual cells with a rated output of 675 Wh. The battery is sheathed in exclusive high-strength housing and placed amid the wheel arches in the trunk. This gives optimal protection for the battery and aids to make certain well-balanced weight distribution. In the air conditioning cooling circuit, the battery cooling system is incorporated. Through the high-voltage electrical system, both the electric motor and the air conditioning compressor are entirely powered by the lithium-ion high-voltage battery. Also when the internal combustion engine is not running this lets the preferred interior climate to be preserved. At an average speed of around 20 mph (35 km/h), completely charged, the lithium-ion high-voltage battery offers an all-electric driving range of up to 2.5 miles (4 kilometer).

High-grade standard fittings, broad range of options

The variety of interior colors, upholstery and interior trim elements reveals the range provided for the other BMW 3 Series Sedan alternatives. Supplementary to the standard-fitted display of comfort-enhancing features is even a 2-zone climate control system with stationary air conditioning. Optionally specific for the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 features include BMW ConnectedDrive mobility services, a broad range of driver assistance systems, plus nearly all the other optional extras obtainable for the conservatively powered BMW 3 Series Sedan.

Hybrid-specific auto start-stop function, ECO PRO mode and coasting mode

The car has auto start-stop functionality together with selectable driving modes ECO PRO and Coasting. Even when the vehicle is stopped for longer time in traffic, the specifically planned hybrid auto start-stop function make sure that comfort is not affected as the automatic climate control and the on-board electrical system are powered by the lithium-ion high-voltage battery. ECO PRO mode can be activated using the Driving Experience Control switch. It supports a mainly fuel-efficient driving style in the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 and makes more recurrent apply of all-electric mode. A new expansion for the BMW ActiveHybrid models – Coasting mode enhances efficiency by shutting the internal combustion engine down not just when the vehicle is stationary, or when driving in city. In ECO PRO mode, the coasting function is obtainable at any speed up to 100 mph (160 kph), whereas in comfort mode it operates amid 37 – 50 mph (60 – 80 kph) when the brakes are evenly applied.

The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 Design Interior and Engine video from youtube:

The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 Design Exterior video from youtube: