BMW introduces new entry-level 3 Series

• Entry-level 318i and 318d models introduced
• Power from 2.0 petrol and 2.0 diesel engines
• Petrol models from £21,645, diesels from £24,015

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BMW has added new entry-level models to its 3 Series Touring estate range.

The 129bhp 2.0-litre petrol 318i costs from £21,645 in ES specification, £1395 less than the next cheapest 320i ES. The 122bhp 2.0 litre diesel 318d ES is £860 less than the 320d ES at £24,015.

The petrol version takes 10.4sec to reach 62mph, has a top speed of 128mph and returns 37.2mph on the combined cycle. Emissions of 182g/km earn the car a place in the 23% company car tax band.

The diesel takes 10.9sec to reach 62mph and has a top speed of 127mph. Combined fuel economy is 48.7mpg, and low emissions of 155g/km give it a 21% tax banding.

ES trim is our pick of the 3 Series trims, with side and curtain airbags, air conditioning, alloy wheels, electric windows and CD player.

SE versions are available for an extra £1030 and add cruise control, climate control, parking sensors and steering wheel-mounted stereo controls.

M Sport models cost another £2290 and bring styling tweaks, sports suspension, parking sensors, automatic headlights and larger 18-inch alloys.