Available in manual only, it makes the 520d the most efficient model in its class, with a combined fuel consumption figure of 62.8mpg. At 119g/km CO2 it also benefits from dropping into the 13% BiK tax band, adding up to a very tempting option for fleets.

Yet there’s no sacrifice in performance – the 2.0-litre turbodiesel still puts out 184bhp and 280lb.ft, accelerating to 62mph in 8.2 seconds. The reduction in fuel consumption comes from a longer final drive ratio in the gearbox, reducing revs at motorway speeds, and low rolling resistance tyres.

The new 520d will also feature the same ECO-PRO mode as the new 1 Series, a driver-selected programme which adjusts the throttle responses, engine map and power consumed by on-board systems such as climate control and heated seats to save energy.

It's priced from £30,435.