Price £26,000-30,000

For careful motorway drivers - and A-road lopers - the combination of real-world performance or potential fuel economy is highly attractive.

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bmw lrice.

From a fleet buyers perspective, this new 320d will have a benefit-in-kind rating of just 13 per cent and road tax of just £35 per year. Unsurprisingly, BMW expects 60 per cent of all 320d ED production to come to the UK.

The typically excellent 3-series handling balance is also a plus, as is the build quality and the fact the engine has cleanest EU5 emissions rating.

However, the 3-series is now showing its age a little in the rather cramped cockpit and limited boot space.

However, the car’s combination of first-class handling, premium finish and potential economy is probably unique in this class.