Environment,
environment, environment! So the search goes on.
·
Design
& Engineering:
As with BMW’s AH 5, the AH
3 is based off the original model, in this case, the 335i. From the front,
slight tweaks in the vehicle’s aerodynamics are visible, in addition to
signature squinted headlamps, allowing one to differentiate it slightly from
the “standard’ 335i. Apart from that, the same sporty and appealing look still
remains on the Bimmer’s face. Furthermore on the side, it’s pretty much the
same story, bar the aerodynamic 18-inch alloys found only among the AH series. On its bum, the AH 3 looks exactly the
same as the 335i, which many hybrid buyers of today enjoy—environmental
consciousness without the whole world knowing that you’ve bought a hybrid.
·
Interior
I’ve always enjoyed BMW’s
in the way they feel. Yes, it sounds odd,
but there’s a certain element to every BMW that makes it feel special. On the inside, it is clear that
the AH 3—despite being a hybrid, is still built for serious drivers as well.
Overall layout is sublime, with thought-out driver positioning. Furthermore,
BMW carries over options for wood trim, steering wheel colour, leather colour,
etc. In one example that I’ve managed to see, a beige steering wheel presents
itself against Imperial Blue leather. The redesigned dashboard features all the
information needed to keep the one engaged and aware of all situations. I quite
enjoy the new steering wheel design, for it retains an air of class and
sportiness as well—via the premium leather, minimalistic button layout, and
paddle shifters. With the new 3-series in general, everything boils down to
detail. For instance, small items such as the handbrake lever are swathed in
interior matching leather. Furthermore, for audiophiles such as myself, the AH
3 comes with a standard Harman/Kardon sound system that delivers ear-pleasing
sounds. To top it off, the i-Drive system (found in all current BMW’s provides
hi-definition graphics and essential information) works like a charm,
displaying the hybrid drive system in a clear and easily understood manner. At
the rear, space is decent for this class of vehicles, and ensures that one’s
occupants are pampered well enough. As for the boot, space is exactly the same as a ‘normal’ 3-series,
as BMW cleverly stows the pack in the spare-tire area.
·
Ride & Handlings
At the heart of
the AH 3 is BMW’s signature 6-cylinder in line, twin-turbo charged V6, now with
added electric motors. This means that power figures jump from 306 BHP (335i)
to 340 BHP in the AH 3. Hence the century sprint is done in a smile-plastering
5.3 seconds. In sport mode, the sedan grips tightly to the road, allowing one
to have “some fun” with the vehicle at all times. Being a hybrid, the AH 3 is
much more frugal than its gas-guzzling brother, the 335i. As a hybrid buyer,
that should be the key selling point.
·
Verdict
The AH 3 trumps the 335i in
terms of how modern it feels and looks. Furthermore, it’s more competitive in
performance, and saves on fuel. Of course, this means it’s a tad more expensive
though.
o Pictures from:
o
http://strumors.automobilemag.com/files/2012/07/2013-BMW-ActiveHybrid-3-interior-mpg-graph-1024x640.jpg
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