The BMW 3 Series has long been the example by which all other premium sport sedans were measured. Its potent mix of power, performance, and refinement have made it the most successful model in its class by some distance—and it’s about to get even better.

BMW has announced the introduction of the new BMW 330e iPerformance. It is yet another highly innovative variant to the 3 Series lineup, and one performance enthusiasts and eco-conscious buyers are sure to appreciate.

The 330e iPerformance is fitted with a four-cylinder gasoline engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology. Astute BMW owners will recognize this engine, as it has twice won the International Engine of the Year Award. Stand-out characteristics include a sporty power delivery, output of 180 horsepower, and peak torque of 215 pound-feet.

Enhancing the 330e iPerformance’s performance is an electric motor that develops 87 hp with maximum peak torque of 184 lb-ft. The new model leverages cutting-edge BMW eDrive technology featured in the BMW i3 and BMW i8. The electric motor is powered by a lithium-ion battery, which can conveniently be recharged from any domestic power socket, or at charging stations around the country.

With the award-winning combustion engine and electric motor working in tandem, drivers can expect great things from this all-new model. The BMW 330e iPerformance offers a total system output of 248 hp and peak torque of 310 lb-ft, allowing it to dash from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 140 mph.

Pure electric driving is also possible, with the vehicle able to go about 14 miles on a single charge, and travel at speeds up to 75 mph.

The power generated by both the combustion engine and the electric motor is channeled to the BMW 330e iPerformance model’s rear wheels via an eight-speed Steptronic® Sport Automatic transmission with shift paddles.

Just like conventionally powered BMW models, the advanced Steptronic® transmission provides low friction losses, which contributes to the vehicle’s superb performance and efficiency at high capacity.

The BMW 330e iPerformance arrives this summer, and 3Birds Template is eager to see its blend of signature BMW performance and hybrid efficiency.

For more information, or to be among the first to test drive this exciting new model, contact us online or visit us at 505 W. Franklin St., Chapel Hill, NC 27516.

Image: BMW (European model shown)