BMW 335d

The BMW 335d is being released this fall in the United States and made its first appearance last January, at the 2008 North American International Auto Show. This marks the return to diesel passenger cars after a two decade-long absence due to raised environmental standards and concern over the negative impact on human health and the environment. Diesel exhaust has been responsible for three major types of pollution: smog, soot and air toxins. Diesel exhaust is also the most common carcinogen present in air pollution. When thinking of cleaner energy, Diesel therefore doesn't often come first to mind. However, this might change with BMW's advanced Diesel with BluePerformance, featured in its 335d model.

The BMW 335d comes with a 3.0-liter biturbo in-line six diesel engine and the BluePerformance urea injection. BluePerformance injects AdBlue – or basically urea, an organic chemical compound extracted from urine- into the exhaust gas which transforms nitrous oxides into nitrogen gas and water vapor. This model's fuel economy ratings are of 23 mpg in the city and 33mpg on the highway, compared to 26mpg on the highway for the standard model.

PROS:

The AdBlue solution only needs to be replenished during regular service intervals and the BMW adds free refills in its 4-year/50,000 mile maintenance program. The BMW 335d is a 3-series with 265 hp and has two turbochargers which create a 425 lb-ft of torque at only 1750rpm. Furthermore, the vehicle has demonstrated great acceleration power with a 0-to-62mph time of 6.2 seconds. Although the diesel carries the stigma of being a huge pollutant, this model features a complex three-part emissions system. Through the AdBlue urea injected in this system combined with a sophisticated exhaust after-treatment, the 335d meets the most stringent emissions standards around the world. In addition, for those worried about the aesthetics of the car- the 335d looks identical to its gasoline counterpart.

BMW has taken many initiatives in recent years to reduce its impact on the environment. In 1998, BMW became one of the first car manufacturers to receive the coveted ISO-14001 certification, which it has maintained since then. BMW shows its commitment through a multitude of efforts, including a solid waste recycling system and a water conservation initiative that saves close to 10 million gallons of water each year.

CONS:

One of the major drawbacks for many consumers may be the price, recently announced as starting at $44,725, nearly $5,000 difference compared to the MSRP for the standard fuel-injection model. On the other hand, the higher life-expectancy of the diesel engine and the reduced gas expenses would compensate that for consumers ready to keep their vehicle for a longer period of time.

Diesel being less commonly used, owners of the 335d must also cope with a refueling network that is more limited than that of gasoline. However, their car's longer range will leave them more time to find a station that sells diesel.