The 2009 335d is one of the latest examples of diesel cars that show just how useful low-end torque can be. The 335d is the company’s first diesel model to hit North American shores in more than two decades, and can produce full torque at just 1,750 rpm. The 2009 335d also has 130 more lbs-ft (the 335d has 425 lbs-feet) compared to the BMW M3. And with a 265 horsepower, the 335d can go from 0 to 60 mph in just six seconds.

The 335d also has a 3.0-liter six-cylinder that is coupled with twin turbochargers to boost the aluminum block. The twin turbochargers work such that the smaller turbo provides boost at low rpm and then the larger turbo increases levels of pressure as revs are built. What then results is a power rush from idle to 4,200 rpm horsepower peak. The BMW 335d gives buyers the option of getting a six-speed automatic with paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel if they buy the Sport Package.

The BluePerformance diesel used in the 335d is 50-state emissions legal and delivers 33 mpg on the highway. The 335d also has lower CO2 emissions compared to other gas engines of the same size.

The sedan costs $44,725, inclusive of destination charges, and rates at 36 mpg in highway driving and 23 mpg in city driving. It travels at 560 miles on one tank of fuel. While the X5 xDrive35d rates at 26 mpg in highway driving and 19 mpg in city driving and costs $52,025, including destination charges. It travels at 585 miles.

Called the BluePerformance, this new BMW diesel technology uses urea injection to cut back on CO2 emissions. Both models have twin-turbo, 3.0-liter I6 powerplant with 265 hp. It delivers plenty of torque, with an engine rated at 425 lb-ft, almost in par with BMW’s vaunted V12.

BMW joined automakers Volkswagen, Audi and Mercedes-Benz as they bet on diesel technology to help solve the problem with fuel economy. BMW states that 67 percent of its products sold in Europe have diesel powerplants.

Diesel counterparts have long been accepted and favored in Europe, but automakers continue to convince the U.S. that diesel vehicles aren’t noisy and dirty, which is the common notion over the past years. BMW debates that while diesel is 15 percent more costly than premium gasoline at present time, it is still 30 percent more fuel efficient. BMW executives have expressed the possible expansion of diesel technology to other vehicles and engines, although nothing was specified. We look forward to Biodiesel in particular, as it will most likely be another step in the right direction saving the planet from CO-killing!