Get the Best of Both Worlds: BMW 330e vs. 320i Comparison

BMW 3 Series 330e Owner Review and Comparison with 320i

Today, I will share my friend's owner review of the BMW 3 Series plug-in hybrid model, the 330e, along with details on specifications, pricing, and the current inventory situation.

As the era of eco-friendliness unfolds, electric vehicles are gaining immense popularity. The BMW 330e can travel 25 miles (40 km) solely on electric power when fully charged, making it a favorite choice for daily commuting in urban areas.

My friend recently purchased a BMW 330e. Since their round trip to work is about 22 miles (35 km), they use it much like a pure electric vehicle.

However, the lack of widespread electric vehicle charging stations across the country means that many still feel a significant burden regarding charging.

During a time when every brand is ramping up electric vehicle development and releases, sticking solely to gasoline or diesel models feels somewhat outdated. From a long-term perspective, my friend decided to invest in the BMW plug-in hybrid model, the 330e.

Many people likely ponder charging solutions before purchasing a 100% electric vehicle.

For me, charging at my apartment parking lot isn't a huge concern, but long-distance travel, especially to unfamiliar destinations, always carries the anxiety of finding charging facilities.

Considering the current infrastructure and trends, I would recommend a model that allows drivers to choose between an electric motor and a gasoline engine, like the plug-in hybrid model.

This model represents a stable option as we transition to an era dominated by electric vehicles.

The plug-in hybrid model also offers numerous advantages in terms of fuel efficiency.

I own a Kia K5 LPG model, and due to the recent rise in LPG prices, my fuel costs have significantly increased.

Although LPG models have lower fuel efficiency compared to gasoline or diesel models, they used to be competitive due to lower fuel costs. However, with recent LPG prices surging to around 1,100 won (approximately $0.84 USD), the economic burden has become too great.

So why am I suddenly talking about LPG vehicles while discussing plug-in hybrids?

After driving an LPG vehicle for about seven years, I never imagined we would face such a time.

I thought LPG prices would remain low, but reality proved otherwise.

As everyone knows, the government is trying to curb LPG price hikes to protect the average citizen's economy.

However, this situation is unlikely to end with just one or two price increases. If electric vehicle adoption continues to rise, the demand for electricity will also surge, leading to inevitable additional increases.

Fuel prices will likely follow the same trend.

Although prices have already risen significantly, they could skyrocket further depending on the policies of oil-producing countries.

We live in an unpredictable infrastructure age, making it difficult to foresee these changes.

When faced with such uncertainty, how would you feel about owning a plug-in hybrid model that allows you to use both electricity and gasoline?

Currently, you can choose your fuel based on the road conditions, but you also have the advantage of opting for the relatively stable fuel over the more volatile options.

My friend primarily uses the electric motor for commuting, but they always consider the balance between electric and gasoline fuel due to potential electricity rate increases.

Eco-friendly electric vehicles are becoming the norm, but we are still in a period where charging infrastructure is expanding. Therefore, the advantages of plug-in hybrid models that can utilize both gasoline and electric fuel are limitless.

If the owner review is this positive, I believe I can recommend the BMW plug-in hybrid model to those considering it.

The BMW 3 Series is a popular choice among young owners and those with young children.

The car measures 185.4 inches (4,710 mm) in length, 71.9 inches (1,825 mm) in width, 56.9 inches (1,445 mm) in height, and has a wheelbase of 112.4 inches (2,851 mm), making it a compact sedan spacious enough for families.

Currently, due to semiconductor supply shortages, standard model options may not be immediately available. However, models with some modified options are periodically arriving in the country, so quicker delivery should be possible.

The BMW 3 Series includes the gasoline model 320i and the plug-in hybrid model 330e, both of which are quite popular.

Shall we briefly compare these two models?

BMW 330e Luxury

BMW 320i Luxury

Price (10,000 KRW)

639 (approx. $5,000 USD)

547 (approx. $4,200 USD)

Max Power (hp)

292 (combined motor and engine)

184

Max Torque (kg·m)

42.8 (combined motor and engine)

30.6

0-60 mph (seconds)

5.9

7.1

Combined Fuel Efficiency (km/L)

16.7 (city 15.3 / highway 18.8)

11 (city 9.7 / highway 13.1)

Trunk Capacity (L)

375

480

Considering the owner reviews shared earlier, the advantages of the BMW 330e, which utilizes both the gasoline engine and electric motor, seem quite appealing.

However, the 320i boasts the attractive advantage of being a more affordable entry into the 3 Series, making it highly popular.Recently, many people have been asking me about the availability of BMW models they desire. If you're interested in purchasing any model from the BMW 3 Series or any other line, feel free to reach out, and if you have questions about test drives, please reply to me.

		My spouse and I are also considering becoming 3 Series owners, and we believe the price range around 50 million KRW (approximately $38,000 USD) offers significant merit.
The attractive design of the daily commuter remains the same, and as someone who enjoys golf, I appreciate the 100 liters of additional trunk space compared to the 330e.		To meet these diverse needs, BMW offers a wide lineup, including the 320i, 330e, 320d, and M340i. Depending on what you prioritize, the options available have expanded significantly.
	However, I cannot provide real-time inventory information.	Promotions are similar; for accurate real-time information, you should consult a certified BMW sales representative, especially one who is quick to gather information and respond to customers.
This is where you can reach out to Won Dong-yeop, a sales representative working at the Kolon Motors BMW Bundang showroom, who will kindly inform you about the current inventory situation and promotions.	Due to the ongoing semiconductor supply issues, it is currently challenging to provide immediate delivery timelines. However, they will continuously monitor and keep you updated, so you can trust them with your inquiry.
I have also been inquiring about BMW's latest inventory and promotions through Won Dong-yeop, allowing me to stay updated. If you're considering purchasing a vehicle, utilizing this information can help you secure favorable conditions for a quick delivery. If you visit in February for a test drive and consultation, there is an ongoing event where you can receive a golf umbrella.	If you're interested in BMW vehicles or test drives, I recommend reaching out to Won Dong-yeop at the BMW Bundang showroom for assistance.	Today, I shared my friend's owner review of the BMW 3 Series 330e, along with a brief comparison with the 320i, and ways to inquire about inventory and promotions.
	Test drive vehicle provided by Kolon Motors BMW Bundang showroom Photos by automotive photographer BJ Poo	330e Go to the list