BMW 316d ES Saloon launches with 118g/km CO2 and sub-£24k price
BMW has introduced the 316d ES Saloon, pairing a 1,995cc diesel with class-leading economy and low emissions, targeting business and private buyers from September 2009.
BMW has expanded its 3 Series range with the new 316d ES Saloon, offering a claimed combined fuel economy of 62.8mpg and CO2 emissions of 118g/km. The 316d ES arrives in UK showrooms in September 2009, priced at £23,330 on the road.
The 316d ES uses a 1,995cc four-cylinder diesel engine producing 116hp and 260Nm of torque from 1,750rpm. BMW quotes a 0–62mph time of 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 125mph. The engine is paired with BMW’s suite of EfficientDynamics technologies, including stop-start and regenerative braking, to maximise economy and reduce emissions.
With CO2 emissions of 118g/km, the 316d ES qualifies for Band C Vehicle Excise Duty, costing £35 per year at launch. For business users, a 13 per cent benefit-in-kind rating and a P11D value of £23,240 mean a 40 per cent taxpayer faces a company car tax bill of £1,208 per year. These figures make the 316d ES the most efficient and tax-friendly 3 Series BMW had offered at the time.
Specification and equipment
The ES trim mirrors the equipment of the 318d ES, including air-conditioning, a multi-function leather steering wheel, front and rear ISOFIX child seat mounts, front foglights and the full range of EfficientDynamics features. The 316d ES is positioned as an entry point to the 3 Series saloon range for buyers prioritising low running costs and emissions without losing core BMW features.
Position in the market
The 316d ES arrives as manufacturers respond to demand for lower-emission executive cars, particularly among company car drivers. Its direct rivals include the Audi A4 TDIe and Mercedes-Benz C180 CDI, both targeting similar buyers with a focus on tax efficiency and fuel economy. BMW’s approach with the 316d ES is to offer the familiar 3 Series driving experience while making the model accessible to those with stricter benefit-in-kind or running cost requirements.
Emissions and tax advantages
BMW’s 316d ES undercuts the 318d on both emissions and tax, which is likely to appeal to fleet managers and high-mileage drivers. The 316d’s 118g/km CO2 output is below many rivals, and the low benefit-in-kind rate makes it particularly competitive for business users. For private buyers, the low VED and strong claimed economy offer a practical alternative to petrol saloons in the segment.
Availability and pricing
BMW confirmed the 316d ES Saloon would be available in UK dealerships from September 2009 at £23,330 including VAT and on-the-road charges. The company positioned the model below the 318d, giving buyers a lower entry point to diesel 3 Series ownership without a major sacrifice in specification.
