BMW 328d bringing diesel power, 40mpg to the New York Auto Show

When the 2013 New York International Auto Show opens later this month, the new BMW 328d will be among the big debuts with big diesel torque and fuel economy figures that could top the 40 mile per gallon mark.

The new BMW 328d offers the same striking good looks at the BMW 3 Series sedans currently on sale here in the US but unlike anything in the current company lineup – the 328d is powered by a TwinPower turbocharged diesel engine that will produce 180 horsepower and 280lb-ft of torque while also being able to reach fuel economy measures that the company believes could hit the 40 mile per gallon mark. This 40mpg figure is based on company expectations and actual EPA ratings could differ but with a 0-60 time in the low 7 second range and the possibility of offering better than 40 miles per gallon – BMW could make a big splash in the luxury sedan segment.

While the new BMW 328d will likely cost more than comparably equipped gasoline powered models, it will also offer considerably better fuel economy without a big decline in the kind of performance that a buyer expects from the modern BMW lineup. Right now, the most efficient option in the BMW 3 Series sedan lineup is the 320i which - with rear wheel drive – offers 36 miles per gallon on the highway. The 2.0L 4-cylinder gas engine offers the same 180 horsepower as the 328d but with only 200lb-ft of torque, the 3 Series diesel sedan should be quite a bit more inspiring to drive with the advantage in torque while still offering roughly 11% better fuel economy.

Like many European automakers, diesel engines have long been a popular choice for buyers who want lots of power without compromising fuel economy but with more and more diesel passenger cars from both European and American automakers – we can expect to see more options like the new BMW 328d hitting US shores over the next few years. The growing acceptance of the new clean diesel technology that powers the 328d has led more prospective buyers to consider these modern oil burners but in addition to the added cost of buying these vehicles, owners have to face the price of diesel fuel…which is similar to high octane gasoline in many cases. However, those buyers who want a European luxury sedan with plenty of power and incredible fuel economy may find the new BMW 328d to be the best choice – even with the bigger price tag and pricier fuel.

Joining the BMW 328d at the New York Auto Show will be the new BMW 3 Series GT that made its world debut earlier this month in Geneva along with the Concept Active Tourer – a plug in hybrid with 95 miles of electric only range supported by a 3-cylinder gasoline engine to prevent any concern of range anxiety. Joining the 3 Series GT, the new 328d and the Concept Active Tourer will be the entire BMW production lineup for those Big Apple show goers who are visiting Javits Center to get a closer look at a prospective new BMW.