March improvements across BMW range

The new March Y-plate sees a number of specification improvements and upgrades to the BMW model range. The M Roadster and M Coupé make a return featuring the engine from the new M3, 3 Series Sport Saloons gain extra specification and a range of 3 Series Sport Tourings make their UK debut. March also sees the introduction of the 7 Series Sport Models. None of these model enhancements incur any price increases over existing models.

From March, the 330i Sport Saloon will be fitted with new aerodynamic front and rear body styling and an M Sports multi-function steering wheel, as well as the 18 inch alloy wheels, sports seats, sports suspension, Alcantara upholstery and other interior cosmetic features of the existing Sport models. The 325i Sport and 330d Sport will follow later in the spring.

Sport Touring models will offer the same equipment and engines as the Saloon, starting with the 330i in March and followed by the 325i and 330d later.

Prices will remain as follows for the Saloon models: 325i Sport - £26,020, 330i Sport - £28,830, 330d Sport - £28,825. Sport Touring models will cost: £26,870, £29,630 and £29,635 for the 325i, 330i and 330d respectively.

More Sport models will be launched at the top of the BMW range with four new 7 Series models joining the line-up from March - 728i, 735i, 740i and 750i Sport. Prices range from £39,950 for the 728i Sport to £71,970 for the 750i Sport, which represent a 15 per cent saving compared to the cost of adding the M Sport Pack to the standard 7 Series models. Extra equipment includes M Sports suspension, Sports seats, multi function steering wheel, and M parallel spoke wheels.

Also due for launch in March are the updated versions of the M Roadster and M Coupé. Featuring the 3.2 litre straight six engine built for the new M3 and a five-speed gearbox, both cars develop 325bhp, up from the 321bhp of the previous models. Acceleration time from 0-62mph stands at 5.3 seconds. Maximum speed is electronically limited to 155mph. Both cars will remain at the same price as the outgoing models - each costs £36,000.

All-new features for the updated M Roadster and M Coupé include DSC III (Dynamic Stability Control III) and DBC (Dynamic Brake Control). They also have the new rev counter with integrated oil temperature display, already seen on the M5 and the new M3, and chrome shadow alloy wheels. Tyre defect indicators will be fitted as standard to both cars.

The improved options for 3 Series include a new cordless telephone replacing the current fixed telephone from March 2001. The price is unchanged at £830. In addition, single mini disc players will be available from March in the 3 Series priced at £295.