Insurance Group: 36
MPG: 49.6
CO2: 152
0-62 Mph: 6.1 secs
BHP: 245 BHP
Range: 666 miles
PROS: The 3.0-litre diesel engine is an absolute peach, and makes the 330d an impressive performer. The handling and roadholding are also superb.
CONS: Some drivers may be put off by the 'sporty' -- read firm -- suspension. It's not cheap either.
The BMW 330D M Sport's 6-cylinder, 24-valve, 3.0-litre, diesel engine produces an impressive 245bhp and 384 lb-ft of torque. It's good for a top speed of 155mph, and goes from 0-62mph in an impressive 6.1 seconds.
The engine is responsive and the 6-speed manual gearbox gives crisp changes. The BMW 330D M Sport has excellent grip and handling characteristics, helped by even weight distribution and balance. It benefits from a stiffer suspension set-up and lower ride height than standard 3-Series models, and as a result the ride is quite firm. Overall, the SE models in the range offer a more comfortable driving experience.
The BMW 330D M Sport differs aesthetically from the other models in the range and the M Sport package comes with an aerodynamically-revised front bumper and rear diffuser, and subtle M Sport badges. The interior doesn't have the same impact you would find in a comparable Audi, but still impresses with its quality.
Standard equipment includes power steering, central locking, stability control, alloy wheels, climate control, electric door mirrors, electric windows, cruise control, rear parking sensors, cloth/alcantara seats, driver airbag, passenger airbags, front side airbags, alarm & immobiliser, CD player, and MP3 connectivity.
The 330d is hardly the most spacious car in its class. The rear passenger compartment is slightly lacking in the head- and leg-room departments and the boot offers just 460 litres. A Mercedes-Benz C-Class, on the other hand, has 475 litres of boot space, and an Audi A4 has 480 litres.
The BMW 330D M Sport scored the full five stars in the Euro NCAP crash tests and features driver airbag, passenger airbag, and front side airbags as standard, along with stability control.
BMW has an excellent reputation for reliability and the 330d comes with a three-year warranty as standard.
At £35,570 the BMW 330d M Sport is not the cheapest car in its class but it impresses in the area of fuel economy. The 330d returns a combined 49.6mpg and emits just 152g/km of CO2.
Resale values should also be good thanks to the desirability of the BMW badge.
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