BMW announces its first diesel luxury car - redefining luxury diesel motoring

March 2003 will see the introduction of the BMW 730d to the UK following the
launch of the V8 735i and 745i models in March 2001. This will be the first
time that BMW has launched a 7 Series diesel model in the UK. Pricing will be
confirmed later this year.

Featuring second-generation common rail fuel injection, the 730d's straight-six
engine develops a maximum output of 218 bhp at 4000 rpm, with maximum torque of
369 lb ft between 2000-2750 rpm. Top speed is 146 mph and 0-62 mph is reached
in 8.0 seconds, giving it a performance advantage over the only competitor in
this segment, the Mercedes S 320 CDi. The 730d is also the world's first
diesel car to feature a six-speed automatic gearbox.

Despite its class leading performance the 730d also has competitive running
costs. Capable of delivering 33.2 mpg on the combined cycle there is also the
option of Concours, BMW's unique five-year servicing package costing just
£500.

Even more economic power:

BMW's second-generation common rail technology with significantly higher fuel
injection pressure is responsible for the 730d's increased performance and
economy. Power has been increased to 218bhp for the 730d compared to 193bhp
for the 530d, an increase of 25bhp. In order to achieve this, maximum
injection pressure has been increased from 1350 to 1600 bar, which, in
conjunction with the new geometry of the combustion chamber, ensures more power
and torque, lower fuel consumption and cleaner emissions.

7 Series in the UK:

Since its launch in March 2002 until the end of June, BMW V8 7 Series models
have outsold the combined sales of the V8 Mercedes S Class models, Lexus LS430
and Audi A8 V8 models. With the introduction of the 730d next year BMW has a
clear opportunity to increase sales significantly. Diesel models have become
increasingly important in all sectors of the UK market. For example, the
Mercedes Benz S 320 CDi represents over 50 per cent of S Class sales while V8
engines are responsible for just 16 per cent. This points towards a major
volume opportunity for BMW 730d.

Specification:

Featuring all the technology of its petrol companions, the 730d will be
available with all the options listed for petrol models.

Editors Notes:

Bhp 218 (BMW 730d) 197 (Mercedes S320 CDi)
Max torque 500 Nm (BMW 730d) 470 Nm (Mercedes S320 CDi)
0-62.5 mph 8.0 secs (BMW 730d) 8.5 secs (Mercedes S320 CDi)
Top speed mph 146 mph (BMW 730d) 141 mph (Mercedes S320
CDi)

Figures quoted are Mercedes own.