BMW has already set sail on the hybrid front but its forthcoming new 3-Series, specifically the 330e, advances technology and expectations by considerable new margins. Just on the potency front alone, the new 2.0-litre petrol-turbo unit (in conjunction with a 68hp electric motor) now produces an outstanding 252bhp, although a depression of the standard XtraBoost switch releases an additional 41bhp by delving into its stored electricity.

As a result, the new 330e accelerates from 0-60mph in just 5.7s, with a top speed of 143mph. However, the car’s EV-only range has grown to a modest 37 miles (to a maximum of 68mph), which helps to bring down the CO2 rating to a mere 39g/km, while, under the new WTLP regulations, the car can return up to 138mpg on the Official Combined test cycle. The 8-speed Steptronic automatic gearbox features a reactive program that makes automatic braking downshifts and supports brake energy recovery for the battery pack.

Interestingly, the car’s electric motor is integrated into the transmission. However, BMW has engineered the 330e to voice a sporty engine note more in-tune with BMW’s sporting aspirations. Yet, when travelling at town speeds in EV-only mode, the car also emits (optionally) an acoustic pedestrian protection system, so that they can hear the car approaching. The Lithium-ion battery pack is located beneath the rear seats, with the car’s fuel tank positioned above the rear axle line, to avoid digging too deeply into luggage space.

SE, Sport Line and M-Sport versions will be available. The car’s in-built sat-nav features a special program that highlights the local availability of recharging sites, plus a list of recommended attractions at the time of arrival. The new 330e will not go on sale until July 2019, at which time prices will also be confirmed.