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Sportier BMW 320d ED confirmed

BMW is preparing to explore a new niche with a 320d EfficientDynamics Sport, capable of 70mpg despite big wheels and extra kit

BMW will introduce a new 320d ED Sport model when the facelifted 3 Series goes on sale later this year. It’ll offer all the kit of a high-spec Sport model, coupled to the low running costs of BMW’s most efficient diesels.

BMW 3 Series facelift: full details  

A company insider told Auto Express this week that BMW is planning to reveal a Sport model of its most economical diesel 3 Series – complete with 17-inch alloy wheels, sporty styling and body-hugging seats. Despite the athletic additions, it’ll return more than 70mpg and emit just 103g/km of CO2. It’s believed both automatic and manual options will be offered, with the manual emitting slightly more CO2.

Before now, BMW only offered one EfficientDynamics model in the 3 Series range, engineered purely for rock-bottom running costs. The facelifted version will emit just 99g/km – but only when matched to the smaller alloy wheels and energy-saving low rolling resistance tyres.

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We asked our inside source whether we could expect a similar model to appear in the 5 Series range, but they insisted the company had no such plans at this time. The 116d ED will suffer the same fate – though if the 320d ED Sport is a runaway success, we shouldn’t have to wait long for copycat variants to arrive.

The Sport trim already exists on the 3 Series range, with buyers of non-ED models able to spec it for around £300 extra over and above the basic SE. All BMWs now get sat-nav, DAB radio and eCall as standard, with the Sport adding bigger wheels, high gloss black trim and black exhaust pipes. Inside, Sport buyers get a set of sports seats, a leather sports steering wheel and contrasting red stitching throughout.

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Cars without the optional adaptive dampers still get Sport and Sport+ modes, but this does nothing to the affect suspension settings – only adapting the throttle and steering response for a sportier driving experience. Given the current premium for a Sport model, we expect the 320d ED Sport to cost around £31,000 when it goes on sale later this year.

Now read all about the new 3 Series facelift here.

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Deputy editor

Richard has been part of the our team for over a decade. During this time he has covered a huge amount of news and reviews for Auto Express, as well as being the face of Carbuyer and DrivingElectric on Youtube. In his current role as deputy editor, he is now responsible for keeping our content flowing and managing our team of talented writers.

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