BMW has always been among the leading car manufacturers embracing green energy. Recognizing the importance of sustainability, they've made significant efforts in developing EVs and plug-in hybrids. Although other EVs preceded it, the BMW 1 Series Active E was BMW's first fully electric car to be mass-produced, with an estimated 1,100 examples sold throughout America and Europe in 2012. Since then, the company has introduced numerous electric models. The BMW i8 began the plug-in hybrid journey, paving the way for vehicles like the BMW 330e, which was unveiled in 2019 and sold in 2020. BMWs are renowned for their performance, so how does the 2021 BMW 330e base model perform compared to its pure ICE counterparts, especially with the hybrid powertrain? Read on.
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Under the hood of the 2021 BMW 330e sits a 2.0-liter Twin Power Turbo four-cylinder engine, putting out 181 horsepower, which is a bit lower than other variants of the same engine. However, since it's a hybrid, the engine is complemented by a 107-horsepower electric motor integrated into the 8-speed automatic transmission, resulting in a total power output of 288 horsepower and 310 lb.ft. That's enough power for daily driving thrills, but the weight of the hybrid powertrain and battery pack add substantial weight, resulting in the car tipping the scales at just over 4,000 pounds. Is the extra weight worth 33 horsepower and 15 lb.ft more than the standard 330i? We'll let you decide. 0-60 mph takes a decent 5.6 seconds, and top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph.
The only difference in the 2021 BMW 330e's cabin is the quietness and serenity, thanks to the incredibly quiet hybrid powertrain. Other than that, everything remains essentially similar to other 3 Series cars except for the M3 and higher trim M variants with performance-oriented cabins. The sports seats, which were standard during production, are both firm and comfortable. Additionally, both rows have ample headroom and legroom, surpassing the space in the 2 Series Gran Coupe, often considered an alternative to the 3 Series. The trunk space is reduced due to the battery pack, but this isn't much of a disadvantage; placing the battery pack in the rear helps distribute weight better, resulting in a more planted driving feel.
Externally, the 2021 BMW 330e base model closely resembles the non-hybrid 3 Series, defying the stereotype that hybrids look radically different from their purely ICE counterparts. The only noticeable difference is the charging port on the front fenders, which is quite discreet. The overall design is not aggressively sporty; it's subtle and reserved, embodying the quintessential BMW elements and lines. The front end is aesthetically pleasing yet understated, with the headlights and grille being the main features that give the car identity as a BMW. The lines extending to the rear accentuate the body curvature, and the rear end maintains a minimalistic design similar to the front. Interestingly, for a car with no exhaust notes, BMW used double exhaust tips.
Being a hybrid, the 2021 BMW 330e offers advantages beyond improved fuel economy. One notable feature is the XtraBoost system, which, when activated, draws power from the battery to provide an additional 40 horsepower, bringing the total power output to around 330 horsepower. Additionally, regenerative braking is used to charge the battery pack, which is particularly useful for long-distance driving between charging stations and start-stop traffic. Inside, the car features an 8.8-inch touchscreen infotainment display that shows navigation, audio, and other car functionalities, including driving modes. The safety and driver assistance suite is comprehensive, incorporating features like adaptive cruise control and steering assist, along with essentials such as ABS, traction control, and electronic stability control.
Market prices for the 2021 BMW 330e average around $27,000, and at Exotic Car Trader, we have several examples listed among our BMW listings. But why should you buy one? Firstly, the efficiency is advantageous for your wallet. On top of that, the performance from the hybrid powertrain is sufficiently enticing to leave you craving an even more exhilarating BMW experience. Lastly, being a BMW, the 2021 330e carries a certain prestige synonymous with the brand, adding an allure that only a BMW can offer.
The 2021 BMW 330e offers a balanced mix of efficiency and a taste of BMW performance, and there's really no other major reason you should buy one. Inside, the cabin provides a serene environment enhanced by the quiet hybrid powertrain, while externally, it subtly integrates with the sleek design of the 3 Series. Exotic Car Trader creates an exclusive and safe way of buying and selling cars, eliminating the daunting experiences of private selling for buyers and sellers. Every vehicle listed on Exotic Car Trader goes through a private seller verification process, ensuring legitimacy for our buyers. Also, Exotic Car Trader's car buying process is well outlined, with all fees and packages providing our buyers with a seamless and inclusive experience. We can handle the escrow of funds at no additional cost to the buyer and seller, and we also provide trade-in and financing options for buyers. For transaction safety, our Transactions Team is world-class and equipped with industry fraud detection tools to ensure a safe and secure transaction. These are just some of the benefits you enjoy when buying or selling on Exotic Car Trader. Contact us for listing services or to buy a car on Exotic Car Trader today! Combining plug-in hybrid advantages with the status of a BMW badge, the 2021 BMW 330e makes a compelling case for itself.
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