| BMW range enhanced for 2006 model year
08/10/2005
The new BMW 318d, 318i and 330d Saloons join the benchmark compact executive 320i, 325i, 330i and 320d models in the 3 Series range. The 330d also joins the BMW 3 Touring line-up. Meanwhile, the V8-powered BMW 540i and 550i are both introduced at the same time as a 367hp 5.0-litre V8 engine also debuts in the 650i Coupe and Convertible. Sport variants of the 6 Series also appear for the first time to sit between Standard and the high performance M6 in the range. A new long wheelbase diesel powered 7 Series and new 2.0-litre petrol and 3.0 litre diesel powered X3 models complete the wave of new product launched by BMW.
In addition to the numerous new models, most ranges in the current line-up receive increases in specification levels while distinct M Sport variants are also launched on five of the models in the BMW range.
M Sport introduced to BMW range
September sees the introduction of M Sport models to the majority of the BMW range. Previously Sport models stood as the pinnacle of each model range, excluding the high performance M3 and M5 variants, offering a bespoke sporting suspension package with individual interior attributes. Now, while the Sport variant is still sold on some models, M Sport enters the fray offering numerous sporting features created by BMW M GmbH in Garching, Germany. All M Sport variants in the BMW range come as standard with M Aerodynamic body styling, M Sports suspension, high-gloss shadow line, M Sports steering wheel, Sports seats, M gear knob, M Sports door sill kick plates, M interior trim and anthracite headlining.
Three new engines for 3
One petrol and two diesel engines join the existing line-up of powerplants on offer in the new 3 Series Saloon range from September. Two new four-cylinder units, the 318i and 318d, feature 1,995cc capacity engines and represent the entry-level point of 3 Series petrol and diesel ownership.
The 318i is powered by the same 129hp / 180Nm engine as the 118i. The 318i posts a zero to 62mph time of 10.0 seconds and a top speed of 130mph via its standard six-speed manual gearbox. Combined fuel consumption is 38.7mpg, while the CO2 emission figure for the car is 175g/km. The on-the-road cost of the BMW 318i is 19,900 UK Pounds.
The 318d uses the same engine as the 118d. It produces 122hp and 280Nm of torque. Again via a six-speed manual gearbox, the 318d posts a zero to 62mph time of 10.6 seconds, while top speed is 129mph and fuel consumption on the combined cycle is a frugal 50.4mpg. The CO2 emission figure for the car is 150g/km, the lowest in the entire BMW range and one that ensures the 318d will be at the top of every fleet manager's list. Prices for the BMW 318d start at 22,115 UK Pounds.
The final engine to be offered on the 3 Series is the eagerly anticipated 3.0-litre six cylinder diesel recently unveiled on the revised 7 Series. The 2,993cc turbo-charged unit represents the pinnacle of diesel car ownership in the 3 Series range as its 231hp, 500Nm engine will testify. The new 330d records a zero to 62mph time of 6.7 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph. However, fuel consumption does not compromise economy with the new 330d posting a combined fuel consumption figure of 43.5mpg and CO2 emissions figure of 174g/km.
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