BMW 3 Series ActiveHybrid 2013 review

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering -- would you buy one?

What is it?

This is the 3-Series BMW hybrid for want of a better term but forget any hybrid preconceptions you may have. This car is a high performance sedan offering super fuel economy along with  striking welly and dynamics. It's also crammed with luxury kit. Shop it against the 335i  you will be really surprised.

How much?

Goes for $97,700 but there are plenty of options to hike that as well as four option packs, Sportline, Modern, Luxury and M Sport. All ad up to a few grand to the purchase price.

What are competitors?

Not many really. Benz has some BlueEfficincy models but none goes as far as the Bimmer ActiveHybrid. Same from Audi though they do have some fuel economy kings in their lineup.

What's under the bonnet?

There's a 3.0-litre turbo straight six petrol engine mated to a 40kW electric boost engine located between the eight speed auto transmission and the engine proper. It's a neat installation. Drive still goes to the rear wheels. A lithium ion battery absorbs regenerative electric energy harvested when braking or deceleration. The combined output of electric and petrol engines is 250kW/450Nm The ActiveHybrid can run entirely as an EV if required and does so automatically when cruising.

How does it go?

Like a rocket. Puts away a 0-100kmh sprint in a tidy 5.3 seconds offering strong acceleration at all speeds merely by pushing the accelerator.
Handling is sharp to. This is a fast, engaging sports sedan, not a wimpy fuel miser that grudgingly gives up forward motion.

Is it economical?

Surprisingly so rated at a mere 5.9-litres/100km. It's significantly better than the petrol only 335i Bimmer and we reckon you could do even better than the claimed figure with a little effort and planning.

Is it green?

Yes, minimises carbon production due to low fuel consumption

Is it safe?

Hi fives. But many driver assistance features are optional.

Is it comfortable?

Yes, leather sports seats, heads up display, drive experience control with Eco-Pro, Comfort and Sport modes, electronic diff lock, electric power steering, rain and dusk sensors, cruise control with braking, premium audio, Bi-xenons, on board computer with internet, 6.5-inch info screen with proferssional satnav, voice control, 18-inch alloys

What's it like to drive

Super impressive  have your cake and eat it too. Offers performance on par with the 335i with the economy of the 320 four banger.
Has excellent dynamics, powerful brakes, great engine sound, sexy stylin

Is it value for money

At just under 100k, good value against possible competitors. A technology showpiece.

Would we buy one

In a flash.