According to BMWblog.com's unofficial sources, BMW is expected to introduce one more - entry-level - plug-in hybrid version of 3-Series next year.

Beside the current BMW 330e Saloon (2nd model evolution) and upcoming BMW 330e Touring version, there might be also 320e with a smaller engine (1.5-litre 3-cylinder petrol engine instead 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine) and smaller electric motor. The engine itself would be shared with the BMW 225xe Active Tourer (2nd model evolution).

Overall system output is expected to be around 200 bhp (for sure below 330e, which specs you can find below). There is no word about battery pack capacity. 330e is using a 12.0 kWh battery (gross) and 10.4 kWh (usable/net).

One might wonder why BMW would introduce an entry-level PHEV? Well, the answer might be that you don't really need a 2.0-litre engine, especially if you want to go green, and the slightly lower price will further boost sales.

The unveiling of the 320e in Q3 2020 (according to rumours) suggests Paris Motor Show.

Gallery: BMW 330e Saloon (2nd model evolution)

BMW 330e iPerformance specs:

  • 12.0 kWh battery (gross) and 10.4 kWh (usable/net)
  • all-electric range of up to 32-37 miles WLTP or 37-41 miles NEDC
  • our EPA range estimation: 19 miles – a third more than current EPA at 14 miles on 7.6 kWh battery
  • 0-62 mph in 5.9 seconds
  • top speed of 143 mph or 87 mph in all-electric mode
  • system output: 248 bhp (288 bhp in a XtraBoost mode) and 310 lb-ft
  • a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine (181 bhp), eight-speed Steptronic transmission and electric motor (continuous output of 67 bhp and a peak output of 111 bhp)
  • charging from 0 to 80%: 2.4 h at 3.7 kW (16 A / 230 V)