BMW has announced the start of production and prices for a series of new models, making September 2006 BMW’s largest ever single month for model introductions in the UK.

A total of 32 new models will arrive, including the new 3 Series Coupé, the revised X3 Sports Activity Vehicle and, BMW’s most expensive model ever, the new BMW M6 Convertible. New engine derivatives for 3 Series Saloon and Touring, and Exclusive Editions for the 7 Series range, also join the BMW line up.

BMW 3 Series Coupé

The third generation of 3 Series Coupé goes on sale in the UK on 23 September 2006. It also marks the introduction of the first ever twin-turbo petrol-powered engine in a production BMW as well as pioneering High Precision Direct Injection technology, in the range-topping 335i Coupé.

Two models will be available at launch, the entry-level 2.5-litre 325i SE Coupé and 3.0-litre 335i (twin turbo) SE Coupé.

The 330i Coupé, and two three-litre diesel variants, the 330d SE and 335d SE Coupés will follow in October.

Both diesels displace 2,993cc but the 335d SE uses BMW’s Variable Twin Turbocharger technology that, unlike the twin-turbo petrol, uses different sized turbochargers to generate 286hp and 580Nm of torque. The 330d’s single turbocharged engine delivers 231hp and 500Nm.

The new BMW X3

The new BMW X3 will offer buyers the latest in engine technology. It now comes powered by a total of five different engines. BMW X3 2.5si and 3.0si models join three diesel-powered models – the X3 2.0d up to the variable twin turbo 3.0-litre engine in the X3 3.0sd (as in the 535d and 335d models).

Alongside the introduction of new engines, BMW’s designers have subtly altered the car to freshen its appeal and improved the quality of materials and surface finishes. At the front, a larger kidney grille sits above a redesigned front bumper and colour-coded spoiler, with the front fog lights now incorporated into the main section of the bodywork. The X3 3.0sd rides on 18-inch light alloy wheels as standard with larger twin exhaust pipes.

The side profile remains true to the original X3, but the new rear light clusters feature LED light rods. The styling of the rear bodywork has also changed with colour-coded panels now extending lower into the bumper.

The X3 is priced between £28,560 - £38,175 OTR.

BMW M6 Convertible

The BMW M6 Convertible goes on sale in September, priced at £86,400, powered by the 5.0-litre V10 International Engine of the Year and using a host of F1-derived technology.

The new M6 Convertible uses BMW’s 4,999cc V10 powerplant to develop 507hp. This powers the car from 0-62mph in 4.8 seconds before going on to an electronically-limited top speed of 155mph.

BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring

Three new six-cylinder engines and two new six-cylinder diesel engines – 325d and 335d – will be introduced into the BMW 3 Series Saloon and Touring ranges from September 2006. Prospective 3 Series Saloon and Touring customers will also be able to choose the new twin-turbo 3.0-litre petrol-powered 335i.