[Jason]

BMW is in the midst of its final testing for the U.S.-spec 335d--the first diesel-powered Bimmer to be sold in North America. The introduction of the 335d will coincide with the launch of facelifted sheetmetal destined for the entire 3-series lineup.

Due to e-mission restrictions, the U.S. version of the 335d will reportedly be down on power from its European cousin (265 hp and 425 lb-ft of torque vs. 282 hp and 428 lb-ft.), but even our U.S. numbers--especially the fat torque number--promise terrific performance that may well be enough convince people to make the move to diesel.

As with the 335i gasoline engine, BMW will use two turbochargers--a small, low-pressure turbo to aid low-end acceleration and a more potent turbo to help at higher engine speeds. Acceleration for the 335d is expected be around 6.2-seconds to sixty, while fuel consumption will likely yield 23 mpg city and 33 mpg highway.

BMW's new diesel range is expected to launch under the banner: BMW Advance Diesel with BluePerformance (Blue denotes the use of AdBlue--the aqueous urea solution used to reduce the diesel's nitrogen oxide emissions). The 335d is expected to bow this fall.