BMW's cheapest and cleanest - SUV

An entry-level version of BMW's X3 SUV is on sale now.

The X3 xDrive18d has a 141bhp version of the BMW's 2.0-litre diesel engine thats more fuel efficient and emits less CO2 than the previous entry-level model, the xDrive20d.

Average fuel economy is 45.6mpg compared with 43.5mpg, while CO2 emissions are down from 172g/km to 165/km. The new model will cost you less in company car tax: 24% rather than 25%.

As with other X3s, this model doesn't have BMW's start/stop technology, but it has lower CO2 emissions than the cleanest versions of key rivals such as the Audi Q5, Volvo XC60 and Land Rover Freelander.

With a staring price of 27,865 for the SE trim, the xDrive18d is 1795 cheaper than the previous entry-level model. The M Sport version which features firmer suspension and cosmetic upgrades - costs 30,030.

A six-speed manual gearbox comes as standard, while a six-speed automatic gearbox - which doesn't increase fuel consumption or CO2 emissions - is a 1440 option.