At the Frankfurt Motor Show (17-27 September), BMW presented the most fuel-efficient production BMW ever. The new BMW 320d EfficientDynamics saloon is the world’s first premium compact executive saloon to achieve a remarkable 68.9mpg on the combined cycle with only 109g/km of CO2 emissions.
Why is 109g/km such an important figure?
In an effort to encourage people to drive more fuel-efficient cars, the government first introduced Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) bands based on CO2 emissions in 2001. Falling under 110g/km means that the new 320d ED now sits in VED band B – as such, owners pay just £35 a year in road tax. Companies purchasing cars under 110g/km CO2 outright can take advantage of a 100 per cent first year capital writedown allowance – improving company cashflow – while company car drivers pay just 13 per cent Benefit In Kind tax. The result? Significantly reduced running costs for business drivers.
How has BMW managed to achieve this?
The new BMW 320d ED has been developed using the very latest BMW EfficientDynamics technologies to reduce the amount of fuel required to power the car. The four-cylinder diesel engine has been intelligently modified to run more smoothly at lower revs, working hand-in-hand with longer gearing to reduce fuel consumption. Lowered suspension and aerodynamic alloy wheels also reduce drag. Together, this package of enhancements increases fuel efficiency resulting in lower CO2 emissions.
Does this mean that performance now suffers?
Not at all. With BMW continually developing even greater EfficientDynamics technologies, the 163hp 320d ED accelerates from standstill to 62mph in just 8.2 seconds and onto a top speed of 137mph. Vehicles with similar CO2 emissions typically take at least two seconds longer to reach 62mph.
What features are available?
Specification is on a par with a BMW 320d SE and includes two-zone air-conditioning, rear Park Distance Control, BMW Professional radio, multi-function leather steering wheel, Extended lighting and a unique alloy wheel design. Moreover, the new 320d ED is available at no additional cost over the BMW 320d SE.
When will the new BMW 320d ED be available in the UK?
Following its unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the new BMW 320d ED is expected to be on sale in the UK from March 2010.
Why is 109g/km such an important figure?
In an effort to encourage people to drive more fuel-efficient cars, the government first introduced Vehicle Excise Duty (VED) bands based on CO2 emissions in 2001. Falling under 110g/km means that the new 320d ED now sits in VED band B – as such, owners pay just £35 a year in road tax. Companies purchasing cars under 110g/km CO2 outright can take advantage of a 100 per cent first year capital writedown allowance – improving company cashflow – while company car drivers pay just 13 per cent Benefit In Kind tax. The result? Significantly reduced running costs for business drivers.
How has BMW managed to achieve this?
The new BMW 320d ED has been developed using the very latest BMW EfficientDynamics technologies to reduce the amount of fuel required to power the car. The four-cylinder diesel engine has been intelligently modified to run more smoothly at lower revs, working hand-in-hand with longer gearing to reduce fuel consumption. Lowered suspension and aerodynamic alloy wheels also reduce drag. Together, this package of enhancements increases fuel efficiency resulting in lower CO2 emissions.
Does this mean that performance now suffers?
Not at all. With BMW continually developing even greater EfficientDynamics technologies, the 163hp 320d ED accelerates from standstill to 62mph in just 8.2 seconds and onto a top speed of 137mph. Vehicles with similar CO2 emissions typically take at least two seconds longer to reach 62mph.
What features are available?
Specification is on a par with a BMW 320d SE and includes two-zone air-conditioning, rear Park Distance Control, BMW Professional radio, multi-function leather steering wheel, Extended lighting and a unique alloy wheel design. Moreover, the new 320d ED is available at no additional cost over the BMW 320d SE.
When will the new BMW 320d ED be available in the UK?
Following its unveiling at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the new BMW 320d ED is expected to be on sale in the UK from March 2010.