BMW has announced the arrival of the most fuel efficient 3 Series model to date. The 316d ES can do more than 60mpg and CO2 emissions are under 120g/km. It will cost £23,330 when it goes on sale in September.
You might expect a 316d to use a version of the MINI's 1.6-litre diesel engine. In fact, like all four-cylinder BMW 3 Series models (both petrol and diesel), it uses a 2.0-litre engine, tuned to produce 114bhp, while torque output is 192lb.ft at 1,750rpm. Drive goes through a six-speed manual gearbox, while BMW claims that 0-62mph takes 10.9 seconds with a top speed of 125mph.
While the performance figures might not sound impressive the economy statistics should please anyone who pays for their own fuel. Combined economy is 62.8mpg, which should allow 800 miles of driving on a single tank of fuel. The low fuel consumption means CO2 emissions are 118g/km, which puts the 316d ES in VED band C and a year's tax will be just £35. Company car drivers will also benefit from the model's tax-efficient status.
Standard equipment includes air-conditioning and front fog lamps, while ISOfix child seat mounting points are all standard. The 316d ES costs £23,330, making it the cheapest diesel 3 Series in the range. Sales are due to start in September.
John Lambert - 25 Jun 2009