Drive with us: 2021 BMW 3 Series Hybrid review

Join us as we take a closer look at the BMW 3 Series Hybrid, a timeless classic with hybrid efficiency

The BMW 3 Series is a versatile saloon, popular among families, company car drivers and, well, just about everyone.

Now in its seventh generation, it's a car that has truly stood the test of time.

It received a facelift in 2022, just after we reviewed it, with further updates in 2024 boosting the electric range significantly. When we drove it? 36 miles (WLTP Comb). After the update? 63 miles (WLTP Comb). 

BMW aren't resting on their laurels.

And they need to keep moving. 

The market is changing fast, with new affordable options — particularly from Chinese manufacturers — giving traditional premium brands something to think about.

But does the 3 Series' timeless reputation still hold up in this modern world? Is being a classic enough?

Let's find out.

What we drove:

Model: BMW 330e M Sport Auto

Body style: Saloon

Power: Plug-in Hybrid Electric (292hp)

Battery: 12 kWh

Range: Up to 36 miles electric (WLTP Comb)

Transmission: Automatic (Steptronic)

Colour: Mineral Grey

OTR from: £48,670 (inc. VAT)

Specifications correct at the time of publication.

Or watch our video review over on YouTube:

Classic looks, modern edge

The 3 Series is exactly what you'd expect from one of Germany's finest. Smart, refined and carrying that unmistakable BMW presence wherever it goes.

It's a saloon that commands respect on the road without ever feeling ostentatious. 

Understated, but never forgettable.

The rear is where it really comes into its own — muscular and bulky in the best possible way, giving it a stance that punches well above what you might expect from a family saloon.

Our Mineral Grey model came fitted with red brake calipers, which added a lovely pop of colour against the bodywork. Having previously driven the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé with blue calipers, the red wins it for us.

And since we reviewed it, the 2022 facelift has sharpened things further — updated LED headlights and redesigned front and rear bumpers giving it a more contemporary edge.

Premium from the moment you sit down

Step inside and everything feels, well, very BMW. But what else did you expect?

Comfort levels are phenomenal, and the blend of premium materials throughout only adds to that feeling.

The M Sport details (the seat belts, the steering wheel, the little touches throughout) elevate the cabin in a way that reminds you exactly what you're paying for. The optional front lumbar support would've been the cherry on top, though it's a shame it doesn't come as standard at this price point.

The 10.25-inch touchscreen works in harmony with the iDrive controller and shortcut buttons, giving you multiple ways to control the car depending on your preference.

The built-in BMW navigation is genuinely competitive with Google Maps and Waze too, which is rarer than you'd think.

The sunroof is a welcome addition, flooding the cabin with sunlight (when it decides to show its face!) and making the whole space feel lighter and more airy.

Rear passengers are well catered for with dual-zone climate control and two USB ports, while practical storage throughout (door bins, armrest compartment and glove box) keeps everyday life tidy.

Boot space comes in at 375 litres, around 100 litres less than the petrol and diesel equivalents – the battery has to go somewhere. But this is still bigger than many other hybrids (such as the Audi A3).

Head and legroom is competitive for the class though, with six-footers perfectly comfortable even on longer journeys.

Just after we got our hands on this model, it received a facelift (2022) which introduced the BMW Curved Display, integrating the instrument cluster and infotainment into one sleek screen. A significant upgrade worth knowing about.

Born to cruise

This thing is as smooth as butter on the road.

The hybrid engine offers a wide range of driving modes — efficient by default, with a fully electric mode available when you want it.

It glides through the gears effortlessly, and the steering is nice and agile without ever feeling flighty, giving you a great sense of control throughout.

One slight frustration: you need to engage XtraBoost mode to access the full 292hp, and even then it's only available in short bursts. For a car with that much power on paper, it would be nice to have it all at your fingertips.

The M Adaptive Suspension means you can feel more of the bumps and dips compared to a standard setup, but the 3 Series handles them well and never feels unsettled.

And the 0-62mph? The current model does it in as little as 5.9 seconds. Not bad for a family saloon.

Electric where it counts

The main perk of a hybrid engine: maximum efficiency.

When we reviewed the BMW 3 Series 330e, it had a claimed range of 36 miles (WLTP Comb). Since the 2024 update, that's been improved to 63 miles (WLTP Comb) — a serious step forward that makes it all the more competitive.

When the electric range depletes, the petrol engine cuts in seamlessly. No fuss, no drama.

The reviewed model came with a 12kWh battery, while the current model has been upgraded to 19.5kWh to accommodate that improved range. Charging supports up to 11kW, meaning a full charge takes approximately two hours and 15 minutes on the current model.

No DC rapid charging — but for a PHEV designed primarily for home charging, that's rarely a dealbreaker. Plug in overnight and you'll wake up with a full battery. Simple as that.

What's good, and what's not

It’s a car with a lot to live up to. Here's where the 3 delivers — and where it falls just short.

The good bits:

• Effortless, refined drive — easy to rack up the miles
• Seamless gearbox and agile steering
• Sunroof adds light and space to the cabin
• Competitive boot space at 375 litres for a hybrid saloon
• Built-in BMW navigation genuinely competitive with Google Maps and Waze
• Electric range improved to 63 miles (WLTP Comb) after 2024 update

The not-so-good bits:

• XtraBoost required for full 292hp — only available in short bursts
• M Adaptive Suspension means you feel more bumps than standard setup
• 375-litre boot is around 100 litres less than petrol/diesel equivalents
• Infotainment doesn't look as modern as some rivals

What's the verdict?

BMW have done it again.

A brilliant, versatile car that's there to be driven — but equally happy guiding you from A to B in complete comfort. Refinement, luxury and quality all present and correct. You know exactly what you're getting with a 3 Series, and that's precisely the point.

This is more than just a company car workhorse. There's something for everyone here.

And it's only got better since we drove it.

The 2022 facelift brought the Curved Display, updated LED headlights and redesigned bumpers.

The 2024 update pushed the electric range to 63 miles (WLTP Comb) and introduced BMW Operating System 8.5. BMW are listening, and they're improving.

What's next? A brand-new generation based on BMW's "Neue Klasse" platform is expected around 2026/2027. 

If the 3 Series' history is anything to go by, it's going to be very good indeed.

Top 5 reasons to consider the BMW 3 Series Hybrid

1. Effortless and refined drive
2. Electric range improved to 63 miles (WLTP Comb) after the 2024 update
3. Seamless gearbox and agile steering
4. Built-in BMW navigation genuinely competitive with Google Maps and Waze
5. Something for everyone — families, company car drivers, and enthusiasts alike

Would we recommend leasing a BMW 3 Series Hybrid?

Absolutely. The BMW 3 Series, with its latest updates, remains a serious competitor in the hybrid saloon landscape — even as Chinese manufacturers enter the market with more affordable alternatives, keeping the traditional brands on their toes.

The 330e's evolution from 36 miles to 63 miles of electric range (WLTP Comb) says it all. BMW are listening to their buyers and making the right improvements.