Over in the Land of Smiles, BMW Thailand has just launched the G20 330e in M Sport guise. According to Bangkok Post, the locally assembled 330e replaces the 330i.

This is likely due to the tax structure in Thailand by which cars are taxed based on the CO2 emissions. Hybrids that emit less than 100 g/km of CO2 are taxed the least and it is evident in the prices.

At launch, the 330i was priced at 3,359,000 baht (about RM 445k) and the 330e is priced at 2,799,000 baht (about RM 371k).

To recap the G20 330e’s specs, the 2.0-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder engine combines its power with an electric motor to produce a maximum output of 292 PS and 420 Nm of torque. 0-100 km/h is zapped in 5.9 seconds.

The additional horsepower gained from the previous F30 330e is achieved through the XtraBoost function, it pushes out an extra 40 horsepower for 10 seconds.

In theory, it is capable of travelling in full electric mode for 55 – 68 km, which significantly more than the F30 330e at about 35 km. 

Until recently, or rather until Thailand caught up, Malaysia was one of the top 3 markets for BMW plug-in hybrids. Still, BMW Malaysia will most likely offer the 330e, pending more clarity on locally assembled hybrid incentives in the 2020 NAP.