A diesel beauty

There is only one compact diesel executive better than BMW’s outstanding 320d and that’s their even more powerful 330d.

But then you would be shelling out 12 grand more for the extra zip and, well, for my money - not that I could even afford £28,600 on what she gives me - I would be well satisfied with the less powerful of the two.

For this new diesel version of the excellent fifth generation 3-Series is a real beauty.

Various models in the 3-Series, one of my favourite compact execs, have already driven through the column, so there‘s little need to dwell too long on the car in general, the diesel engine being the star this time around.

Suffice it to say that as I have said on numerous other occasions, this very stylish car has all the performance, looks, build and quality that make it a truly super car.

One can find few faults, if any, with its exterior design. I have heard rumbles about it looking a little dated, but that’s waffle.

Inside there is a wealth of space with plenty of room for 6ft drivers, improved rear space and a range of seat adjustments together with reach and rake adjustable steering that ensure the best possible driving position. Materials are of the highest quality. Pity though there are no cup holders. A little extra that you now get used to in the latest cars.

The boot is well shaped and would be even more accommodating if the suspensions didn’t eat up a fair bit of space.

A good range of features include airbags up front, head and side for driver and passenger, antilock braking, Auto Stability Control + Tracking, Cornering Braking Control, self-charging car key with memory, central locking, electric front windows, ‘follow me home’ lights function, rear anti-roll bar etc.

POWER: So to the star of this particular test, the strong, flexible and economical direct injected two litre four cylinder 16-valver.

This one is indeed another of those revelations. With its 136 horses at 4000rpm and massive 206lb ft of torque at 1750rpm, the 320d is as quick as a six-cylinder petrol 320i and has as much torque on tap as a 328i. That gives it a 0 to 60mph in 10 seconds and a top speed of 128mph. I returned a very satisfying 43.5mpg. Touch the pedal and response is there to relish, and in a smooth and quiet way.