BMW's 3 Series petrol-electric hybrid model will go on sale in late 2012 from £40,255.
The new BMW 3 Series hybrid is powered by a 335i 3.0-litre six-cylinder petrol engine that delivers a power output of 302bhp. A 54bhp electric motor runs alongside the petrol engine, allowing the 3 Series to travel up to 2.5 miles on battery power alone.
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The hybrid powertrain means the 3 Series can return a combined fuel economy of 47.9mpg and emits CO2 emissions of 139g/km. It achieves a 0-62mph sprint time of 5.3 seconds.
The 3 Series hybrid achieves better CO2 emissions than the frugal 320d diesel Efficient Dynamics derivative in BMW' range, but fails to achieve better mileage as the 320d returns a combined fuel economy of 68.9mpg.
When compared to outside competitors like the Toyota Prius and its low CO2 emissions of 89g/km and 79.1mpg, it's nowhere near.
The starting price of £40,255 is with the entry level ES trim. Basic features include cruise control, Bluetooth compatibility and air conditioning.
Other trims include Modern, Luxury and M Sport. The M Sport trim adds sport suspension and aesthetic sport features like M alloy wheels and chrome trim. The M Sport trim starts from £43,235 and the Modern and Luxury start from £41,235 and £42,735 respectively.
The new BMW 3 Series hybrid is one of two new frugal hybrid models in BMW's range, the new ActiveHybrid 5 Series being the other.
With these new hybrid models BMW may be hoping to expand its eco-fleet and build on its firmly established Efficient Dynamics eco-signature range. BMW may also be looking to compete with executive hybrid models like the Lexus CT 200h and the Porsche Panamera S Hybrid.
Orders for the BMW ActiveHybrid 3 Series are open now