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BMW has announced its most powerful diesel yet will be slotted in the 7 Series. Named the 740d, the 3-litre twin-turbocharged oil burner has 306bhp and a massive 442lb/ft of pulling power.

Accelerating the big BMW from 0-62mph in 6.3 seconds, it's certainly no slouch. The lithe 3-Series 335d Coupe only just pips it in acceleration. As with most German 'luxo-barges', the top speed is artificially limited to 155mph.

Thanks to BMW's Efficient Dynamics technology the bruiser still manages 40.9mpg and has a CO2 emissions figure of 181g/km – lower than some hatchbacks.

To coincide with the launch of the most powerful diesel, all 7-Series can now be ordered with an M Sport package. This adds 19-inch alloy wheels, M aerodynamic body kit, high-gloss exterior trim, M sports steering wheel and seats, door sill inlays, brushed aluminium interior trim and Anthracite headlining.

BMW has also announced it's cleanest ever 3 Series; the 316d ES fitted with a tweaked version of the 1.6-litre diesel from the 1 Series, producing 115bhp. Average fuel economy should be 62.8mpg, and importantly for business users, it has a Benefit in Kind tax rating of 13 per cent.

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