The 231hp 730Ld is offered in Standard and SE variants and costs 50,750 UK Pounds and 52,900 UK Pounds respectively. Performance figures closely mirror that of the standard wheelbase car, accelerating from zero to 62mph in 7.9 seconds while still delivering 34.4mpg on the combined cycle.



New entry-level BMW X3 and range-topping diesel

Two new models will be joining the successful BMW X3 range. A new entry-level petrol-powered X3 2.0i goes on sale in September while the same 3.0-litre diesel engine that has formed the bedrock of the X5's sales success also comes to the X3.


Priced from 25,010 UK Pounds, BMW X3 2.0i is available in Standard, SE, Sport and M Sport variants, the latter also marking the introduction of a new M aerodynamic styled model for the entire BMW X3 range. The 1,995cc engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard with power output rated at 150hp and torque at 200Nm. Zero to 62mph is accomplished in 11.5 seconds, maximum speed is 123mph, while fuel consumption on the combined cycle is 30.4mpg. CO2 emissions are 223g/km.


BMW X3 range now has a new top-flight model with the arrival of the X3 3.0-litre diesel. Available in SE, Sport and M Sport variants, prices start from 31,910 UK Pounds. The new 3.0d model uses a 218hp turbo-diesel engine under the bonnet offering 500Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. On-road performance is rapid with the zero to 62mph sprint covered in 7.4 seconds and a top speed of 130mph (136mph for Sport and M Sport models). Combined fuel consumption is 35.8mpg and the CO2 emission figure is 210g/km.


All diesel-powered models in the BMW range, unlike any other competitor feature as standard a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) for improved engine emission quality and a more aesthetic style courtesy of exhausts that point straight back. On the BMW X3 2.0d and 3.0d variants the DPF is a standard.



BMW 1 Series enhanced

Following the announcement of the high performance 265hp 130i to the range (BMW press release 21/7/05), all 1 Series variants now come with automatic drive-away door locking function for increased security and peace of mind. Additionally, technology from larger BMW models has now cascaded to the 1 Series. The second-generation of Active Steering, featuring an enhanced variable steering ratio for greater manoeuvrability at lower speeds while still delivering increased levels of stability at higher speeds, is offered for the first time on 130i models only. Meanwhile, Adaptive Headlights that turn to illuminate the direction the car is steering rather than the direction it is pointing, are also available.


Three new interior upholstery cloths are also now available in combination with new Brushed Aluminium or Light Burr Walnut trims. A new style of multi-spoke 18-inch alloy wheel completes the list of possible enhancements. As with all the new generation of BMWs, the 1 Series is now available with iPod connectivity.
 
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