The 2012 BMW 3 Series made its world debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September but the ActiveHybrid 3 will now make its world debut at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show next month (along with the rest of the 3 Series lineup).

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The 2012 BMW ActiveHybrid 3 will be powered by a 300-hp 6-clyinder engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology (same engine in the 2012 BMW 335i). The unit will be mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and an electric-motor that makes 55-hp. Together, the engine and the hybrid system produce 335-hp with a maximum torque of 330 lb-ft. The system should allow the ActiveHybrid 3 to average a little more than 36 mpg – official EPA figures will be announced closer to launch.

Click here to see our Top 10 things you need to know about the 2012 BMW 3-Series list.

BMW says that the motor in the ActiveHybrid 3 provides the 6-cylinder engine with extra driving power and can provide a boost function when you want to let loose.

As a fuel-saving extra, the BMW ActiveHybrid technology also allows the ActiveHybrid 3 to run solely on electric power between 2 to 2.5 miles with a top speed of 37 mph.

- By: Omar Rana