New BMW 3 Series cuts diesels and ups plug-in hybrid range
BMW has updated the 3 Series Saloon and Touring with new technology, a longer-range plug-in hybrid and the removal of diesel engines from the line-up.
Introduced following the extensive revisions in 2022, the latest package of measures boosts the brand’s bestseller ahead of the arrival of a ‘Neue Klasse’ 3 Series-sized electric saloon around 2026.
Key changes include the arrival of a new higher-voltage 19.5kW battery for the plug-in hybrid that increase the electric range of 330e models to a maximum of 63 miles in the WLTP cycle. Emissions range from 19-26g/km and official fuel consumption is 256.8-353.1mpg for the Saloon and 256.8-313.0 for the Touring model. Three-phase AC charging at up to 11kW is now standard, improving recharging times.
BMW has also dropped diesel models. Alongside the PHEV models, the pared-down powertrain line-up also includes the entry-level 320i with 184hp of power and up to 170g/km of emissions and the M340i xDrive mild hybrid with 374hp and up to 198g/km. All models come with an eight-speed Steptronic transmission as standard, complete with shift paddles on the steering wheel.
Chassis technology has been tweaked for a better balance between sporting agility and comfort. The M Sport suspension is included as standard on M Sport models, with the Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers and variable sport steering is available as an option.
The latest version of the iDrive display and control/operation system with QuickSelect is now fitted, said to provide more intuitive control of vehicle functions and delivering access to digital services. It’s now based on BMW Operating System 8.5 and features a new-look home screen and QuickSelect rapid-access tech, bringing an improved menu structure that’s based on consumer electronics devices.
Working in tandem with the BMW Curved Display and BMW Personal Assistant, the new BMW iDrive is geared towards touch and natural voice control. The climate control functions, including the seat heating and – if fitted – the steering wheel heating, are also now controlled digitally. New navigation functions include Augmented View.
Design changes are minimal but introduce new exterior paint finishes and light-alloy wheels while the interior gains new steering wheel designs and updated instrument panel.
The new 3 Series Saloon is priced from £39,045 and 3 Series Touring from £40,845. The 330e PHEV versions are priced at £46,080 and £47,880 respectively.
Production starts in July 2024, with UK customer deliveries from the summer.
Natalie Middleton
Natalie has worked as a fleet journalist for over 20 years, previously as assistant editor on the former Company Car magazine before joining Fleet World in 2006. Prior to this, she worked on a range of B2B titles, including Insurance Age and Insurance Day. Natalie edits all the Fleet World websites and newsletters, and loves to hear about any latest industry news - or gossip.
