Following an initial announcement last week, BMW Australia has now confirmed prices for the new BMW 330e and X5 xDrive40e plug-in hybrid models.
Surprisingly, the 330e is quite affordable for a mid-size premium car. The local arm has indicated a retail price of $71,900, making it significantly cheaper than the old ActiveHybrid 3 (from around $100k). This places it in the range at about the same price as the 330i sedan.
The 330e comes with a ‘320i’ 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine producing 135kW and 290Nm, paired with an electric motor that adds 65kW and 250Nm. Combined output is rated at 185kW and 420Nm, with 0-100km/h coming up in a swift 6.1 seconds.
Best of all, the 330e offers a combined cycle fuel consumption of just 2.1L/100km. It can also drive on electric power alone for about 37km. When it comes time to recharge, both models can simply use a regular powerpoint.
“Our eDrive models will introduce BMW EfficientDynamics and hybrid technology to a whole new audience, continuing our ongoing commitment to sustainable mobility. Many drivers will be able to complete their daily commute exclusively on electric power, recharging their car by plugging into a normal power point at home or work.”
For the X5 xDrive40e there’s a 2.0-litre turbo in ‘28i’ tune (now ‘30i’) which generates 180kW and 350Nm. It’s paired to an electric motor that adds 83kW and 250Nm for a combined output of 230kW and 450Nm. Acceleration from 0-100km/h is done in 6.8 seconds.
Like the 330e, the X5 xDrive40e offers an exceptional fuel consumption average, rated at just 3.3L/100km. This is excellent for a large SUV that uses a constant four-wheel drive drivetrain. It can drive on electric power alone for a range of about 31km. Prices for the xDrive40e start at $118,900, or around the same as the X5 xDrive40d.
Both models will arrive in Australia in May. Prices mentioned exclude on-road costs.
