2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3
The 2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is a hybrid sedan. It has a 3.0-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine producing 335 hp (250 kW), with an 8-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive.
ABOUT THE 2015 BMW ACTIVEHYBRID 3
The 2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 is the petrol-electric version of the sixth-generation 3 Series saloon (F30). It pairs BMW’s 3.0-litre turbocharged N55 inline-six with an electric motor built into the eight-speed automatic transmission, giving a combined 335 hp and 330 lb-ft (450 Nm). Power goes to the rear wheels only.
The last year of a niche model
The ActiveHybrid 3 arrived in the US for the 2013 model year and 2015 was its final season. Its place in the range was taken by the 330e plug-in hybrid, which followed with the facelifted 3 Series. Unlike the 330e, the ActiveHybrid 3 cannot be charged from the mains; its lithium-ion battery is topped up by the engine and by regenerative braking, and it can move on electric power alone only for short distances at modest speeds.
Performance first, economy second
BMW pitched this car as a quicker alternative to the 335i rather than a frugal commuter. The electric boost fills in low-speed response, and the engine shuts off when coasting and at a standstill. Real-world fuel savings over a conventional 335i are modest, and the battery under the boot floor reduces luggage space compared with other 3 Series saloons.
Buying one today
The N55 engine’s commonly reported weak points apply here: oil leaks from the valve cover and oil filter housing gaskets, and failures of the electric water pump and thermostat. Hybrid components are specific to this low-volume model, so check that any independent specialist is comfortable with the high-voltage system before buying.
Rivals
Hybrid alternatives in 2015 included the Infiniti Q50 Hybrid and Lexus ES 300h, though neither matched the BMW’s rear-drive layout and turbocharged six.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | ActiveHybrid 3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2015 | Version / Trim | BMW 2015 ActiveHybrid 3 |
| Body Style | Sedan | Doors | 4 |
| Seats | 5 | Ext. Colour | Alpine White, Jet Black, Black Sapphire Metallic, Mineral White Metallic, Mineral Gray Metallic, Glacier Silver Metallic, Imperial Blue Metallic, Carbon Black Metallic, Estoril Blue Metallic, Melbourne Red Metallic, Sunset Orange Metallic |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | Germany |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Engine | 3.0L 6-cyl Turbo | Engine Size | 3,000 cc |
| Power | 335 hp / 250 kW | Torque | 450 Nm / 330 lb-ft |
| Range / Economy | 25 mpg city / 32 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,810 mm | Kerb Weight | 1,545 kg (3,406 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2015 SEDANS
Compared with other 2015 sedans in our database, its 335 hp is 15% more than the average 2015 sedan (292 hp).
| 2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 | Average 2015 sedans | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 335 hp | 292 hp (169 cars) | +15% |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 382 Nm (169 cars) | +18% |
| Kerb weight | 1,545 kg | 1,665 kg (194 cars) | -7% |
| Engine size | 3,000 cc | 3,009 cc (184 cars) | — |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2015 sedans with similar power to the 2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 | 335 hp | — | 1,545 kg |
| 2015 Audi A6 quattro | 335 hp | 6.0 s | 1,705 kg |
| 2015 Maserati Ghibli V6 | 345 hp | 5.5 s | 1,815 kg |
| 2015 Lexus RC 350 | 311 hp | 5.5 s | 1,735 kg |
| 2015 Ford Mustang | 310 hp | 4.5 s | 1,800 kg |