BMW ActiveHybrid

BMW ActiveHybrid 3

BMW is adding to its highly popular ActiveHybrid range by incorporating a hybrid version of the new 3 Series to the line-up: the ActiveHybrid 3.

The new BMW ActiveHybrid 3 joins the ActiveHybrid 5, which went on sale last year, and ActiveHybrid 7, with the range expected to grow and feature SUV models including the X6, in order for BMW to appeal to more environmentally conscious buyers and boost sales. 


Despite being a hybrid, this 47.9mpg variant of the 3 Series is not short of power. The BMW ActiveHybrid 3 features a TwinPower 3.0 litre engine which has 6 cylinders, which gives a solid 340bhp and 0-60mph time 5.3 seconds; that's pretty good for a car in its class. Plus, that makes the 3 quicker than the 5 series equivalent by 0.6 seconds. As for CO2 emissions, the ActiveHybrid 3 will produce 139g/km, which is good but maybe BMW could do a little better to really strengthen the hybrid's appeal further. You can also opt to run the ActiveHybrid 3 purely on electric power for a maximum of 2.4 miles before the engine kicks in. Four different trim levels will be on offer upon the new car's release next month, in July: SE, Modern, Luxury and M Sport, so you are bound to find a spec that suits you. There will also be a healthy amount of standard equipment and a vast array of customizable options. As for prices, the ActiveHybrid 3 will set you back £40,225 if you opt for SE trim, and even more if you choose other trim levels. Thus, if you're happy to compromise on the power, the equally frugal, more stylish, more spacious and cheaper 520d SE GT might be the BMW for you, costing £36,605.