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Is this crucial plug-in hybrid version of the big-selling saloon a true BMW to its core?

The 330e isn’t one of the PHEV options that will take a fleet driver down into the 6% benefit-in-kind (BIK) tax bracket; but it is, at least, a car rated for more than 30 miles of WLTP-certified electric range (and so qualifies for 10% BIK tax) whichever driveline, wheel size and trim level you go for. Right now, both rear-wheel-drive and xDrive four-wheel-drive configurations are on offer. Later this year, Touring bodystyles will join the fray.

Drivers should expect 20-25 miles of electric range in shortish-range real-world use after a full battery charge; and then to see between 38mpg and 45mpg under combustive power, depending on driving style.

Funny that run-flat tyres still cause dynamic issues on BMWs after all this time. I’d be asking the dealer to slap on a set of ‘performance’ tyres for my top-of-the-range 330e M Sport whether he was supposed to or not.

Exactly where that combination will leave your daily fuel economy return will depend more on how you use it than anything else. Our 330e long-term test car – which commutes around 20 miles each way every day, is charged at both the office and home but does plenty of longer-range running, too – is averaging 65mpg.

 

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