BMW 3 Series 330e vs Mercedes-Benz C-Class 300e: Comparison of premium compact PHEVs by combined fuel consumption

Two compact sedans, two approaches to premium plug-in hybrids. The BMW 3 Series 330e vs. Mercedes C-Class 300e is one of those duels decided by tenths of a second, both on the scales and in fuel consumption figures. And yes, also in the wallet: both start just above €61.000. Let's take a closer look.

Why compare the 3 Series 330e with the C-Class 300e?

They are direct rivals, from the same premium D segment, with a focus on PHEVs and a DGT ZERO emissions label. They share a mission: to offer a sedan that can handle daily driving in electric mode and take long trips without worry. The difference lies in how each brand solves the equation.

Each brand's approach to the premium plug-in hybrid

BMW has been refining its PHEV platform for more than a generation. The 3 Series 330e maintains the classic approach: rear-wheel drive, an eight-speed ZF automatic transmission, and a battery that has grown in size without drastically reducing trunk space.

Mercedes is playing another card. The C 300e features a larger battery and a fairly powerful electric motor, aiming for EV ranges approaching three figures. On paper, Stuttgart's approach is more ambitious in the electric realm.

BMW 3 Series 330e from ≈€61.200

The 330e offers around 290 hp combined, a battery of approximately 22,5 kWh, and a homologated electric range of nearly 100 km (WLTP). The official combined fuel consumption is around 2,5 l/100 km, a figure that—let's be clear—you'll only see if you charge religiously. On long journeys with a depleted battery, it behaves like a 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 184 hp and some assistance: real-world fuel consumption of 6,5-7,5 l/100 km is to be expected.

The good: driving feel, rear-end dynamics, smooth gear changes. The questionable: the trunk loses volume compared to the non-electrified 3 Series, something common in any PHEV.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class 300e from ≈€61.400

Here the proposition changes. The C 300e delivers around 310 hp combined, with 550 Nm of torque and a 0-100 km/h time of about 6 seconds. The battery capacity increases to approximately 25,5 kWh, and the official electric range reaches around 120 km WLTP. The declared combined fuel consumption is even more economical: close to 1,5 l/100 km, with emissions around 30 g/km.

Translated into real-life terms: if your daily commute is no more than 80-100 km and you charge at home, there are entire weeks where you won't need to visit a gas station. That's the C-Class's strongest selling point. However, it does weigh over two tons, and you'll notice it on fast corners.

WLTP mixed consumption: what the data sheets say

On paper, the C-Class clearly wins: 1,5 versus 2,5 l/100 km. A whole liter. In practice, this figure depends so much on charging frequency that it's almost misleading to present it without context—something we've already discussed when talking about how to get the most out of a PHEV's electric mode so that the official figures resemble real-world consumption.

Electric range and battery: 330e vs 300e

100 km versus 120 km WLTP. In real-world use, it achieves 20-25% less (air conditioning, highway driving, temperature). With the 330e, it gets around 75-80 km in real-world driving; with the C 300e, 90-100 km. Sufficient in both cases for a weekly urban/metropolitan commute without using the gasoline engine.

Performance and combustion engine

The C-Class uses a 2.0-liter turbo engine with an electric motor integrated into the transmission. The 330e uses a 2.0-liter turbo engine paired with a ZF transmission. Both deliver good acceleration, although the Mercedes feels more powerful off the line. The 330e is more linear and precise when you push it.

Actual consumption outside the WLTP cycle with a depleted battery

Without the battery, both achieve around 7 l/100 km on the highway. Here, the weight of the C-Class works against it: it carries more kWh, but also more weight.

Zero Label and tax advantages in Spain

Both are ZERO label: Madrid and Barcelona's Low Emission Zones without restrictions, regulated parking with discounts depending on the city, and discounted tolls on specific highways.

Starting price and equipment

The starting prices are virtually identical: around €61.200 for the 3 Series 330e and around €61.400 for the C-Class 300e. Keep in mind that these are manufacturer's suggested retail prices (MSRPs), without dealer discounts, promotions, or purchase incentives. The list of optional extras, for both brands, can easily drive up the final price.

Comparative summary table with score

Which driver is better for?

Do you drive 40-60 km daily and refuel at home? The C 300e will give you weeks of range with virtually no fuel. Do you prefer a more engaging driving experience, sharper steering, and dynamic rear-end torque? The 330e remains the benchmark. If you frequently travel on the motorway without refueling at your destination, the real savings of one over the other diminish.

Verdict: Which premium PHEV sedan offers the best value?

In our opinion, the C 300e wins the comparison in terms of combined fuel consumption and electric range, with a clear advantage on paper. The 330e is better suited to the driver who enjoys driving. It's a matter of priorities. In terms of pure efficiency, the Mercedes wins for us by a small margin.

FAQ

Which PHEV has more electric range, the 330e or the C-Class 300e?
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class 300e, with about 120 km WLTP compared to 100 km for the BMW 3 Series 330e.

Which one consumes less in WLTP mixed cycle?
The C-Class 300e achieves around 1,5 l/100 km; the 330e, around 2,5 l/100 km. Both depend on real-world use and charging frequency.

Do both have a DGT ZERO emissions label?
Yes. They exceed the required 40 km of electric range and have unrestricted access to the Low Emission Zones (LEZs) of Madrid, Barcelona, ​​and other cities.

Does the price include discounts or subsidies?
No. The figures (≈€61.200 and ≈€61.400) are the manufacturer's recommended retail price, without dealer discounts or MOVES plan aid.