WITH BMW having such a wide and appealing range of 3-Series cars, there must be one to suit most people’s needs in petrol and diesel forms.

During the present belt-tightening times, however, it’s the oil burners that are the firm favourites and for those drivers who really enjoy motoring, there is no better choice than the Bavarian firm’s face-lifted 330d, a fast but frugal 3.0-litre.

This saloon is a perfect example of the way BMW’s latest crop of 3-Series cars has taken refinement and power to new levels.

The 330i, with its reworked and lighter engine, will shine in any sphere. It is happy travelling through the dense traffic and will open its lungs on the highway to record a 0-62mph acceleration test time of 6.1 seconds and race on to a top speed of 155mph.

If you are looking for economy and cleanliness, you won’t be disappointed.

Despite stomping out effortless torque, which enables fast and safe overtaking, the six-speed manual returns a brilliant 49.6mpg and emits just 152g/km of CO2.

The 3-Series can look back on a generation of setting class standards and the latest cars have undergone many changes to keep them in the top-dog position.

At a glance, there is not a great deal of change to the classy looks of the 330d, though there are different rear lamp clusters, revised bumpers and a re-styled bonnet to enhance the exterior.

However, under the skin there are many updates to bring the car in line with the latest engine, chassis and suspension developments and the best in technology.

What helps make the BMW so special is its 50:50 weight distribution, coupled with rear-wheel drive. This helps provide excellent grip so that you can push the 330d into bends at high speeds and accelerate out with the knowledge that the back wheels are tracking the front ones beautifully.

The steering is light and precise and very communicative, with the driver quickly gaining an affinity for the car.

The ride is supple and comfortable but the firm suspension does mean that road imperfections are picked up.

Those 18-inch low profile, run-flat tyres suit the car admirably, hugging the road and helping to give reassuring feedback from the steering when high performance is demanded.

This is a driver’s car and the interior also seems to echo this, with clarity of purpose and appearance dominating the roomy and beautifully upholstered cabin.

While the saloon is not as practical as a hatch, it is a roomy car with a decent boot to hold all the family luggage.

BMW cars are not cheap but they ooze quality and are well equipped nowadays so you do expect to dig deeper into your pocket. The 330d has the option of M-Sport packaging and leather upholstery, parking aids, electric front seats, extensive safety and security features, and the latest hi-tech wizardry which includes extensive music storage.

BMW 330d 3.0-litre turbo diesel. Price: £33,885 (with options). Top speed: 155mph. 0-62mph: 6.1 seconds. Fuel: 49.6mpg. Emissions (g/kg): 152. Verdict: Brilliant performance and economy, outstanding grip, beautifully built and a pleasure to drive.