The BMW Group continues its electrification offensive with the market launch of four more models. Customers already have a choice of four plug-in hybrid variants of the BMW 3 Series and as many as five of the BMW 5 Series. Both model series will be supplemented by two further models each with an electrified drive from March 2021. The new model variants of the 3 Series Saloon and Touring (Estate), as well as the 5 Series Saloon and Touring (Estate), will feature the fourth generation of BMW eDrive technology.
The model-specific plug-in hybrid system of the new entry-level variants consists of a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine with 163 hp and an electric motor. Together they transmit their drive torque to the rear wheels via the 8-speed Steptronic transmission or, to all four wheels as required with the help of the xDrive system. In addition to 204 hp of system output, the spontaneous power delivery of the plug-in hybrid drive and the maximum system torque of 350 Nm ensure high-level sprint capacity and sporty driving characteristics.
The 320e Saloon accelerates from 0 to 62 mph in 7.6 seconds, with the Touring (estate) version requiring a further 0.3 seconds or 0.6 seconds if the four-wheel-drive xDrive system is opted for. The 520e Saloon and Touring (Estate) take an extra 0.3 seconds to 62 mph compared to the 320e, however, in purely electric driving mode, the new plug-in hybrid models of both series can reach a top speed of 87 mph.
High electric ranges thanks to state-of-the-art battery cell technology.
The values for the electric range according to the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP) test cycle are 32 to 38 miles for the new BMW 320e Saloon, 31 to 37 miles for the new BMW 320e Touring (estate), 28.5 to 35.5 miles for the new BMW 320e xDrive Touring (estate), 33 to 38 miles for the new BMW 520e Saloon and 32 to 35.5 miles for the new BMW 520e Touring (estate).
The high-voltage battery can be charged with a maximum of 3.7kW from 0 to 80 per cent of its total capacity in 2.6 hours and from zero to 100 per cent in 3.6 hours.
Unrestricted every day and travelling suitability, extensive level of standard equipment.
The high-voltage battery of all-new BMW 3 Series and BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrid models is installed below the rear seat bench to save space. This means that the luggage compartment volume of the Saloon and Touring (estate) models is almost fully available. It is 375 litres in the new BMW 320e Saloon and 410 litres in the new BMW 520e Saloon. For towing enthusiasts the maximum permissible trailer load is 1,500kg for the BMW 3 Series models and 1,700 kg for the BMW 5 Series models.
Both the 320e and 520e are set to go on sale in Europe in March 2021, but there are currently no details of any plans to bring it to the UK.