BMW 318d 2012 review: road test

We turn the spotlight on the car world's newest and brightest stars as we ask the questions to which you want the answers. But there's only one question that really needs answering  -- would you buy one?

What is it?

The new entry point for the BMW 3 Series range and it's a turbo diesel.

How much?

Priced from $56,400 plus on-roads, which is $1200 less than the 2.0-litre 320i entry level petrol model.

What are competitors?

That would be the 2.0-litre Audi A4 TDI and 2.1-litre Benz C-Class C200 CDI BlueEfficiency. Both are more expensive, both produce more carbon and both use more fuel at 4.8 and 5.4 litres/100km respectively.

What's under the bonnet?

It features the 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-charged diesel engine that we have seen previously in the 1 Series. It produces 105kW of power and 320Nm of torque. Eight-speed automatic with Auto Stop/Start is standard along with many other fuel saving devices.

How does it go?

Not going to win any races. The 318d accelerates to 100km/h in a conservative 8.9 seconds. But it's super responsive in the low to mid rev range, thanks to the torquey diesel engine.

Is it economical?

If you're chasing fuel economy it doesn't get much better than this. Boasts a staggeringly low fuel consumption figure of 4.5 litres/100km. We were getting a rock solid 5.5 after several hundred kilometres without really trying  but it will do better than this on a long run.

Is it green?

Gets four out of five stars from the Govt's Green Vehicle Guide. Produces 118g/km of CO2. Prius gets five stars.

Is it safe?

Gets a full five stars for safety, with plenty of safety aids. All models are fitted standard with six airbags, and Dynamic Stability Control that includes ABS, Brake Assistant, Cornering Brake Control and Dynamic Traction Control.

Is it comfortable?

Gets fake leather and airconditioning, but bear in mind this is the entry model. Seats are comfortable and the dash is looking a lot less daunting these days.

What's it like to drive?

Okay. Didn't like it at first but it grows on you. Lacks the smoothness of a petrol engine, but that's soon forgotten.

Is it value for money?

Dual-zone climate standard, along with cruise (with brake function), electric front seats with memory, auto lights and wipers, rear park sensors, Bluetooth and 6-speaker CD audio systems with AUX and USB inputs. Misses out on satnav.

Would we buy one?

You bet. Many people would give their right arm to own a 3 Series. At the price and what you get for your money it's an attractive package.