BMW expands model line-up | New Release - Car News Jun 2012

11:04 Friday 22 Jun 2012

BMW is introducing a host of new model and engine changes across its UK range.

The revisions, which affect the 3 Series saloon and the 5 Series and 6 Series ranges, are focussed on improving fuel consumption and lowering CO2 emissions.

3 Series

The big news for the 3 Series is that newer models will be offered with BMW's xDrive all-wheel-drive system. The system will be available initially on the 320i, costing from £27,400 OTR.

BMW is also dabbling in the hybrid market with the new ActiveHybrid3 which is fitted with a 3.0-litre six cylinder engine along with a 55bhp electric motor. At speeds of up to 37mph, the hybrid can run solely on electric power for 2.4 miles, improving fuel consumption. BMW quotes an economy figure of 47.9mpg, which is impressive for a car which can get from 0-62mph in 5.3 seconds.

Beemer's M Sport trim is also being rolled out across the entire 3 Series range for an extra £3,000 over the cost of a standard SE model. Standard features include 18-inch alloys, M Sport (overly firm) suspension, leather sports seats and a multi-function steering wheel.

5 Series

BMW is introducing Start/stop to all models in the 5 Series range and is also launching a tax-efficient version of the 5 Series Gran Turismo. The new 520d Gran Turismo is fitted with a 2.0-litre diesel engine which develops 184bhp. This means good fuel economy at 53.3mpg and low CO2 emissions of 139g/km.

Standard kit includes leather seats, an eight-speed automatic gearbox, panoramic sunroof and Bluetooth with telematics. Park distance control and an automatically opening boot are also fitted as standard.

6 Series

The new 650i Gran Coupe goes into production next month and BMW has been busy fettling with its 4.4-litre V8 engine.

The new 650i churns out 449bhp and 479lb-ft of torque, making for a 0-62mph time of just 4.6 seconds. Start/stop is fitted as standard and means that the 650i returns a fairly impressive 30.7mpg on the combined cycle, with 214g of CO2 escaping from the exhaust pipes every kilometre.

Prices start from £70,650 for the Gran Coupe, with the standard coupe and convertible models commanding an additional £820 premium.