The 3 Series' Top Model is a Hybrid

BMW has begun accepting domestic orders for the hybrid model, the "ActiveHybrid 3," which made its world premiere at the Detroit Auto Show. Deliveries are scheduled to begin in September.

The "ActiveHybrid 3" is equipped with a hybrid system that combines a 3-liter inline 6-cylinder turbo engine producing 306ps with a 54ps motor, boasting a total system output of 340ps (250kW) and a maximum torque of 45.9kg (450Nm). It features an 8-speed automatic transmission. With the motor's assistance, it achieves 0-100km/h acceleration in 5.3 seconds. In addition to its impressive specifications, it is positioned as the top model in the series, being the only inline 6-cylinder model in the 3 Series currently introduced in Japan.

For reference, the "ActiveHybrid 3" sold in Germany achieves a fuel economy of 6.4ℓ/100km and CO2 emissions of 149g/km based on European measurements. The 335i (not available in Japan), which shares the same inline 6-cylinder engine, has a fuel economy of 7.9ℓ/100km and CO2 emissions of 186g/km, indicating approximately a 20% reduction through hybridization. Information regarding the fuel economy (JC08 mode) for the Japanese specifications is currently under application.

Functionally, it includes an idling stop function, an "ECO PRO mode" that comprehensively controls ecology-focused operations such as engine output and air conditioning, and a coasting function. This function, when the accelerator pedal is released at speeds below 75km/h, stops the engine and disengages the clutch, allowing the vehicle to coast without engine resistance. During this time, it can travel with zero emissions. With "ECO PRO mode," this function is also active during high-speed driving above 80km/h.

The lithium-ion battery is housed in the luggage compartment, which reduces the trunk capacity to"320i"compared to the 480 liters of the "320i".



The lineup, similar to the currently available"328i"and "320i," also offers design lines for the ActiveHybrid 3: "Sport," "Modern," and "Luxury," allowing for selection according to preference.

All models come standard with "Remote Climate Control," which allows the air conditioning to be activated remotely to lower the cabin temperature before occupants arrive, even after prolonged parking in intense heat. The dual exhaust tailpipes, engine cover, and logo badges are exclusive to the ActiveHybrid 3. Furthermore, the top-grade "M Sport" model features the "M Aerodynamics Package" and "18-inch M Light Alloy Wheels."

The price for the base grade "ActiveHybrid 3" is 6.99 million yen. The "ActiveHybrid 3 Sports," "ActiveHybrid 3 Modern," and "ActiveHybrid 3 Luxury" are each priced at 7.19 million yen. The top-grade "ActiveHybrid 3 M Sport" is 7.45 million yen.

BMW Active Hybrid 3 | BMW Active Hybrid 3
Body (Right-hand drive) | Length 4,624 x Width 1,800 x Height 1,429 mm
Body (Left-hand drive) | Length 4,624 x Width 1,810 x Height 1,429 mm
Wheelbase | 2,810 mm
Tread Front/Rear | 1,531 / 1,572 mm
Minimum Ground Clearance | 140 mm
Vehicle Weight (DIN) | 1,655 kg
Trunk Capacity | 390 liters
Engine | Inline 6-cylinder DOHC 24-valve with Turbocharger
Displacement | 2,993 cc
Maximum Output | 306ps (225kW) / 5,800-6,000 rpm
Maximum Torque | 40.8kgm (400Nm) / 1,200-5,000 rpm
Motor Output | 54ps (40kW)
Motor Torque | 21.4kgm (210Nm)
System Maximum Output | 340ps (250kW)
System Maximum Torque | 45.9kgm (450Nm)
Transmission | 8-speed automatic
Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive
0-100km/h Acceleration | 5.3 seconds