BMW 3 Series and X3 get mild-hybrid tech

BMW has announced it will begin introducing its all-new 48-volt mild-hybrid technology into key models like the 320d and X3 xDrive20d, in which it's claimed to boost standing-start acceleration while improving fuel economy and slashing emissions.

The electrified 2.0-litre turbo-diesel combines a 48-volt starter-generator and an additional battery that's claimed to provide an 8kW boost in power.

As well as clawing back energy under braking, the new starter-generator is also said to introduce near seamless restarts in traffic, while the additional battery allows for engine-off coasting from speeds of below 15km/h.

At highway speeds of up to 160km/h the diesel motor is decoupled, allowing further high-speed coasting when the driver lifts off the throttle.

Meantime, a new entry-level 318i variant has also been introduced to the

Powered by a lower-output version of the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine in the 320i and 330i, the 318i churns out 115kW and 250Nm of torque, which should still provide for peppy performance. Against the clock, what's set to be the cheapest 3 Series reaches 100km/h in 8.4 seconds and tops out at 224km/h.

Fuel figures and Australian plans for the new 318i have yet to be revealed.

As well as the 3 Series' new 48V petrol powertrain, a new 2.0-litre turbo-diesel has joined the 1 Series range in Europe.

Producing a 140kW, the new 120d is available with an eight-speed automatic and is capable of reaching 100km/h in just 7.3 seconds and topping out at 232km/h.

Across the rest of the BMW range other less dramatic improvements have been introduced that include soft-close doors for the 7 Series limousine and 8 Series coupe, while the X5, X6 and X7 get a new selection of leather interiors with a wider range of colours.

Stay tuned for BMW Australia to announce what will arrive and when in our market.