BMWs first U.S. diesel has been spotted testing in Californias Death Valley in the form of a slightly disguised 3-series sedan packing a twin-turbo 3.0L straight-six oil-burner. The prototype is for the 2009 335d sedan, which is set to arrive later this year along with the rest of the facelifted 3-series range.
While BMW has been offering diesel vehicles in Europe since 1983, where the more fuel-efficient option accounts for 67% of the carmakers sales, low demand for this type of engine in North America has put BMW off from importing them until now.
First announced at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, the new 335d destined for North America will feature the same twin-turbocharged 3.0L engine as European models but will develop a slightly lower output of 265hp (198kW) and a V8-beating 425 lb-ft (575Nm) of torque European spec cars develop 286hp (213kW) and 428lb-ft (580Nm) of torque.
Expect to see the 0-60mph sprint completed in around 6.2 seconds and fuel-economy levels at 23mpg (10.2L/100km) in the city and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) on the highway.
New front and rear fascias, a new grille, redesigned air intakes and brake ducts, updated fog lights and a new, more flowing hood design mark the list of changes expected for the new 2009 model 3-series.
While BMW has been offering diesel vehicles in Europe since 1983, where the more fuel-efficient option accounts for 67% of the carmakers sales, low demand for this type of engine in North America has put BMW off from importing them until now.
First announced at the 2008 Detroit Auto Show, the new 335d destined for North America will feature the same twin-turbocharged 3.0L engine as European models but will develop a slightly lower output of 265hp (198kW) and a V8-beating 425 lb-ft (575Nm) of torque European spec cars develop 286hp (213kW) and 428lb-ft (580Nm) of torque.
Expect to see the 0-60mph sprint completed in around 6.2 seconds and fuel-economy levels at 23mpg (10.2L/100km) in the city and 33mpg (7.1L/100km) on the highway.
New front and rear fascias, a new grille, redesigned air intakes and brake ducts, updated fog lights and a new, more flowing hood design mark the list of changes expected for the new 2009 model 3-series.
