MARCH will see BMW stake new ground in its product line-up with the production of its first diesel Coupé, the BMW 330Cd.

The 330Cd features an uprated version of BMW's acclaimed 3.0-litre diesel engine and will arrive in the UK in 2004.

The new 3.0-litre unit will also slot into the 330d Saloon and Touring models next spring in the UK when the following range of styling and performance enhancements will also hit the UK showrooms:

BMW's first diesel Coupé will feature the perfect marriage of an uprated version of the muscular 3.0-litre diesel engine to the dynamic poise and handling of the renowned 3 Series Coupe chassis.

The new, lighter engine in the BMW 330Cd offers an extra 20 bhp, increased low-down torque (max 410 Nm available at 1,500 rpm), improved top speed and 0-62 performance. Improved fuel consumption makes the package even more unbeatable. The uprated 3.0-litre diesel will also be added to the 330d Saloon and Touring.

The combustion process and oil filtration systems within the new 3.0-litre engine have also been refined, resulting in reduced contamination and extended oil change intervals of more than 25,000 miles.

All BMW 3.0-litre petrol and diesel body styles will receive a new six speed manual transmission that offers improved fuel consumption and greater flexibility for the driver. The six speed box will also come as standard on the new 330Cd, current 320d Saloon and Touring and 320td/325ti Compacts.

Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) is standard on all six cylinder 3 Series models and the electronic driver aid will now come as standard on all four cylinder 3 Series models. DSC monitors lateral and longitudinal forces on the car as well as throttle and steering inputs from the driver and any wheel slippage. It then compares the intended trajectory of the car to its actual course. If necessary, the system can adjust the dynamic attitude of the car by applying braking forces to individual wheels and controlling throttle inputs.