BMW is aiming to improve its already excellent residual values by revamping its approved used car scheme to rival its new car marketing. The scheme is being extended to all BMW cars of any vintage - as long as they meet the strict qualifying criteria.

Every car sold under the scheme will come complete with Vehicle Mileage Check and HPI Check, full service and a simplified and more comprehensive warranty. But uniquely in the used market, BMW will also supply prospective customers with brochures and product information relating specifically to the model and vintage that they are interested in. BMW's comprehensive used vehicle database, which includes exact specifications, optional extras fitted and modifications, will allow BMW's dealer network to pinpoint the exact car in question - even down to the style of the wheels.

BMW was among the first manufacturers to introduce an approved used vehicle scheme and was then copied by the volume car-makers with the introduction of Ford Direct - which was extended earlier this month and Vauxhall's Network Q.