The new-generation BMW 3-Series Sedan features the BMW TwinPower Turbo four-cylinder diesel engine of its predecessor, which has been honed for even greater fuel economy and lower emissions with no reduction in power output. This state-of-the-art powerplant with composite aluminium crankcase sets many benchmarks, and with its latest-generation common rail direct injection system and VNT turbocharger it combines plenty of punchy power with a further reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. This all helps the new BMW 3-Series to further widen its competitive lead.

The thermodynamically improved turbocharger makes for lively power delivery right across the load range. An electric actuator adjusts the turbine blades with split-second speed in line with different engine loads, so that when the driver demands full throttle, the engine is as responsive in the low rpm range as it is at full load. Solenoid injectors supply the fuel to the cylinders at a pressure of up to 2,000 bar. High-precision fuel metering and high atomisation quality result in clean and homogeneous combustion.

With unchanged maximum power of 135 kW/184 hp at 4,000 rpm, and powerful torque of 380 Nm on stream between 1,750 and 2,750 rpm, the new BMW 320d is an extremely dynamic performer. This diesel model, too, delivers everything one would expect of a compact sports sedan. This is reflected in performance figures, which include a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of just 7.5 seconds. When necessary, the agile diesel will accelerate up to a top speed of 235 km/h (146 mph).

The new BMW 320d's average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.5 litres per 100 kilometres (62.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 118 grams per kilometre mark a four per cent improvement on the predecessor model, with no reduction in power. For models fitted with the new eight-speed automatic transmission, the improvement is even more striking: fuel consumption (4.5 l/100 km / 64.2 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions (118 g/km) have fallen by 16 per cent. With all of this, the BMW 320d has reaffirmed its position as a high-performance, efficient sedan which boasts one of the world's cleanest and most economical diesel engines.