BMW 330e Plug-in Hybrid Saloon (2019-present)

The BMW 3 Series is often regarded as the benchmark executive saloon upon which others strive to beat. By combining exciting handling with well appointed interiors and the latest on-board technology, it is arguably the leader of an extremely well contested pack.

This latest generation is better in almost every way, including its plug-in hybrid offering, which now offers a 50 per cent greater all-electric range of 41-miles, increased power and a reception in fuel consumption.

Customers shopping in the executive saloon class are currently spoilt for choice, with stalwarts like Audi and Mercedes-Benz both offering excellent examples to rival the 3 Series. More recently, Jaguar and Alfa Romeo have also joined the fight with the XE and Giulia models, while Kia’s recent Stinger is the Korean brand’s attempt to push further upmarket.

However, hardly any of these marques currently sell a solid plug-in hybrid option here in the UK, with only Mercedes-Benz offering a true rival in the C 350 E. But the model is due to be replaced by an all-new EQ range of cars and tracking one down in the UK is difficult

So BMW has been extra quick off the mark to corner this market, but rather than simply offer battery power and an additional electric motor to reduce the cost of motoring to owners, BMW has cleverly integrated its new propulsion system so it adds to the overall driving enjoyment of an already highly entertaining machine.

Dubbed XtraBoost, this new feature unlocks an additional 40hp when the throttle is pressed to the floor, taking the total system power up to 293hp and ensuring the all-important 0-62mph sprint is dispatched in an impressive six seconds. Not bad considering the electrical gubbins add an extra 200-odd kilos on top of there standard saloon’s kerb weight.

Mating a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder twin-turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor also has the benefit of improved fuel consumption figures and when drive in a mix of electric and internal combustion power, BMW claims it is possible to achieve 138mpg - although we know from real-world testing that these numbers should be taken with a pinch of salt.

Regardless, an improved all-electric range now gives a realistic number of miles with which owners can silently waft through city centres and low emissions zones without the fear of receiving fines. Better still, BMW eDrive Zones (coming as standard on all hybrid models by 2020) uses geo-fencing technology built into the advanced satellite navigation system to ensure the vehicle has sufficient range to enter the restricted area.

It does this by first recognising an upcoming restricted area and then cleverly adjusting its settings to allow the engine and regenerative braking to top up the on-board batteries. Of course, this will have an effect on fuel economy, but it can easily be enabled and disabled through the in car entertainment system.

On that note, there is no change in the top quality fit and finish of the new 3 Series’ interior, with UK customers cable to pick from the same trim level as its diesel and petrol powered counterparts - SE, Sport, M Sport.

With prices starting at a heady £37,875 for this hybrid variant, owners are naturally treated to a high level of fit and finish inside. Expect soft leather touches, exquisite stitching and top quality materials used in the buttons and switchgear. There is also extremely high levels of connectivity in the more lavishly appointed models, with natural speech voice recognition, gesture control and pin-sharp head-up displays just a few highlights.

Of course, there is a very valid point that PHEVs actually make for more polluting and less efficient vehicles when owners refuse to charge the batteries or make use of the electric drive system, but with very little impact on the driving experience and the added benefits of reduced taxation, near-silent motoring and improved fuel economy, the 330e should be a consideration fo anyone thinking of dipping a tentative toe in the EV waters - especially if the daily routine allows them to make the most of the electric system.