Performance: The Activehybrid3 comes with a 3-liter
turbocharged six-cylinder producing 300hp with a 55hp electric motor for a
combined total of 335hp. Performance is what you would expect from a BMW solid.
It’s smooth and comfortable around town and there’s plenty of oomph on the
highway.
On the road: The Activehybrid3 we had as a tester
car only came with the adaptive M sport suspension which really does improve
handling and steering feel. Even with the combined M-sport package with larger
alloys we still found the ride comfortable and much more refined than the
C-class with AMG package. In the cabin road and wind noise are all well
suppressed with a premium feel.
Behind the wheel: There’s plenty of space for the
driver and front passenger to get comfortable. Passengers in the rear seat will
also find comfort as well. The infotainment system and iDrive are a paradigm of
clarity. Everything is easy to use thanks to the redesign of the iDrive system
and of course BMW’s minimalistic approach to dashboard layout. The boot is of
decent size too even though it is smaller than the standard 3-series.
Equipment: The Activehybrid3 comes with automatic
climate control, HD radio, head-up display and xenon headlamps. You’ll have to
pay extra for the M-Sport package and also the adaptive M-sport suspension
which should be standard considering the Activehybrid3 starts at the same price
as the entry level 5-series sedan.
Buying & owning: The only reason we really see
the Activehybrid3 making sense is if you are looking for green cred or if you
really want a M3 but can’t afford the running costs. It may not have the
blistering performance of an M3 but it is much cheaper to buy and run. Resale
value however will be outstanding thanks to the badge.
Quality & Safety: The Activehybrid3 interior feels
classy and well put together. Many of the materials used feel sturdy and long
lasting. BMW reliability record has been good but we do however question the
long term reliability of the complex hybrid system. When it comes to safety the
Activehybrid3 comes with everything you’d expect a BMW to come with in terms of
safety. But for those who may not know, stability control is standard as well
as a host of braking technology to help you avoid a collision.
The Activehybrid3 is one of those cars that only
make sense if you are looking for green cred or trying to find a way to reduce
your fuel bills without giving up the performance that you crave. It’s a great
car to drive but you’ll have to add on the options to make it drive better. Plus
it’s close to the entry-level 5-series sedan. If you really want a performance
hybrid this is your only option otherwise we highly suggest looking at the 328d
or 320i which are both cheaper and just as fuel efficient.
Likes: The most potent hybrid we have ever driven. With
the right option it will drive like a dream.
Dislikes: As a hybrid it’s pointless and it’s not
cheap either. We have yet to drive a BMW with standard suspension and we hear
it’s quite disappointing. The 320i and 328d make more sense.
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