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The other Model 3: BMW's plug-in 3 Series is the hybrid you didn't know about

The other Model 3: BMW's plug-in 3 Series is the hybrid you didn't know about

Right off the bat, you can see there are few things that betray this 3 Series' electric powers.

That is, until you catch a glimpse of the "330e" badge out back ...

... and the extra fuel door, located on the front driver's side fender.

There's also an "eDrive" badge planted rather conspicuously behind the rear doors.

Here's that charging port in action.

So, how does the 330e drive? Let's hop in.

That eDrive button on the base of the shifter allows you to switch between all-electric and hybrid modes.

This is no Tesla. Driving on battery power alone got us about 14 miles of range max in highway driving. The 330e can recharge its own lithium-ion battery pack as you drive, but 50% was as far as it would charge using this method.

The cabin is well-appointed and comfortable, both for street and highway travel.

A convenient charging cable is included, though it may not be worth reaching for this when you're out and about, since the battery range is so short. If you're charging at home, it plugs into a standard wall outlet.

The 330e is a good choice for people who want a luxury plug-in hybrid sedan, with the performance pedigree of a BMW.

BMW put together a respectable package here. Overall MPG is impressive, and the 330e's gas and electric powerplants combine to offer more than enough acceleration when you need it.

If you're looking for a small, sporty luxury sedan in the mid-$40,000 range with excellent fuel economy, this is a good choice.

Despite the extra weight from its lithium-ion battery, the car still handles remarkably well. It remained sure-footed during spirited driving on some curvy roads, and acceleration was smooth and quick.

Of course, it's not a Tesla Model 3. You won't be able to drive 200-plus miles on battery power, but the 330e does everything your standard 3 Series excels at, so being able to plug this one in is really just an added perk. And if you have a commute that's fewer than 14 miles or so, you could feasibly drive on battery power alone and save some money on gas.

It remains to be seen whether BMW will eventually make an all-electric 3 Series, but there's no doubt that it could if it wanted to. Such a car could be a game-changer for a nameplate that did just that in the entry level sport luxury sedan segment four decades ago.

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