The batteries are known to be reliable, but we’d hold out for a lower-mileage model as it's more likely to be a privately-owned car. Many Priuses have been used as taxis thanks to their efficiency. The platform was designed with hybrid powertrains in mind, so the batteries don’t eat into space in the rear, while the 343-litre boot is still fair. You can add practicality to its broad list of attributes too. Keep things settled, and it’s perfectly refined and comfortable. The CVT gearbox means the engine can drone if you ask for maximum acceleration, but this is at odds with the Prius’s relaxed and efficient character. The 1.8-litre petrol engine and electric motor set-up claimed sub-100g/km emissions at launch, meaning earlier models are free to tax. A sophisticated suspension set-up delivers a refined ride and impressive body control, so while the Prius focuses on sipping fuel, it’s actually surprisingly good to drive. That’s because this fourth-generation Prius, which was introduced in 2015, moved to an all-new chassis, based on Toyota’s New Global Architecture platform. The rotary-style iDrive click wheel and physical shortcut buttons make it an incredibly intuitive set-up to use.
BMW has consistently been at the forefront of infotainment systems, and even its previous-generation tech doesn’t feel all that old. Inside, the cabin is logically laid out and as solidly screwed together as anything else in its class.
However, these sporty dynamics don’t come at the expense of comfort, because the 3 Series offers great long-distance refinement.
Out on the road, it will engage keener drivers thanks to its agile yet stable chassis balance, sharp steering and excellent grip. The battery is stored beneath the boot floor, and although the overall luggage capacity has dropped as a result, the 370-litre load volume is still reasonable.Įlsewhere, the 330e maintains all the qualities that make the 3 Series great. Passenger space front and rear is just as accommodating as it is throughout the rest of the 3 Series line-up.
That means its real-world performance isn’t far shy of that of a six-cylinder diesel-powered 330d of the same age, while its practicality is largely similar to that of the combustion alternatives, too. Performance is smooth and adequate in electric mode thanks to an 87bhp motor, but when more power is needed, the 182bhp petrol unit intervenes to deliver a sprightly 6.1-second 0-62mph time. BMW equipped the 330e with a 7.6kWh battery, which gives an EV-only range of 25 miles.