This plug-in hybrid model is the pick of the 3 Series range. It can run on electric power alone for 25-30 miles and the battery takes 5hr 42min to charge from empty from a regular domestic three-pin socket, or 3hr 24min from a 7.2kW charger using the optional type 2 lead. There's also a 2.0-litre petrol engine to take care of your longer journeys and with both power sources working together, acceleration is really brisk.