BMW's diesel initiatives

While the 1 Series convertible and X6 grabbed the attention, BMW also launched its first two new diesel models in the American market, the X5 3.0sd and the 335d.

Both feature a 262bhp 3.0-litre diesel engine that meets stringent emissions standards, and will be available from midway through this year.

The significance? Some will consider it a good thing, others a sign of just how far behind Europe the USA is, but it's clear that the message of fuel efficiency and lower emissions is finally being given a kick-start across the Atlantic.