BMW has got off to a storming start to 1999 with first-quarter sales of the new 3-series 66% up on the same period last year at 14,600. Despite other manufacturers trying to position rival models as 3-series contenders, the German marque continues to dominate the prestige upper medium sector.

Three-month lead times for the four-door 3-series show demand remains strong, and range appeal is set to be enhanced further with the June 10 launch of the 3-series coupe. - for which there is already an extensive advance order bank even though no customers have yet driven it in right-hand-drive form.

Later in the year, the range will be further boosted by the launch of the 3-series Touring and a 137bhp 2.0-litre common rail diesel engine. 'I can see a great resurgence in diesel engines because of the new company car tax regime,' said Phil Jones, BMW's corporate sales manager.