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Saturday, October 14, 2017

Devon tries to find sense in a Activehybrid3 (Used)


BMW wanted to prove a point when they created the Activehybrid3. They wanted to create the sportiest hybrid you can buy. But will it live up to those expectations?

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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