Infiniti's first diesel saloon, the M30d, will go on sale in the UK October, with prices starting at £36,750. It is a model exclusively made for Europe.

Power comes from the company's 3.0-litre diesel engine, which develops 235bhp and 406lb.ft. As installed in the M series it is claimed to deliver a 0-62mph time of 6.9 seconds, a top speed limited to 155mph and 37.7mpg on the combined cycle. Carbon dioxide emissions are 199g/km, which puts the M30d in Vehicle Excise Duty band J.

As with the petrol-powered M35, there will be five grades of specification. The entry level version is the M30d, which includes a seven-speed automatic transmission, ten-way powered seats and white ash wood trim with silver powder finish. An extra £2,500 is required to upgrade to the luxury-themed GT version with semi-aniline leather and heated, ventilated front seats.

Keen drivers will need to find £41,250 for the 'S' model. This comes with four-wheel active steering, sports seats and 20-inch alloy wheels. Both the GT and S can be upgraded to Premium specification for £5,350. Extra features for Premium cars include the Dynamic Safety Shield (Blind Spot Intervention, Active Cruise Control and Lane Departure Warning), Forest Air and a 16-speaker Bose sound system.

The 3.0-litre diesel is the second of three drivetrain options for the M-line; the M35 Hybrid will complete the range when it goes on sale next year.

John Lambert - 8 Sep 2010