One of the most popular BMW numbers returns to the showrooms this week with the arrival of the new generation (E90) 325i Sedan.

Joining the 320i and 330i models launched in May, the new BMW 325i Sedan sports the latest generation six-cylinder engine in a 2.5-litre capacity.

The innovative, lightweight and powerful 160 kW magnesium-aluminium alloy in-line six-cylinder is available in six-speed manual or six-speed three-mode Steptronic Automatic guises, and is priced from $71,900 ($74,500 auto).

Exemplifying BMW engineering excellence, the new generation six-cylinder employs VALVETRONIC infinitely variable valve lift and Bi-VANOS variable camshaft adjustment to rev smoothly to 7,000 rpm and deliver seamless power and driving excitement. BMW Bi-VANOS technology determines when the valves open while VALVETRONIC determines by how much the valves open.

The new engine offers an uplift of 19 kW over the previous 325i engine and an additional 5 Nm of torque, with a broader spread of peak torque lower down the rev range.

The 325i engine delivers 160 kW of power at 6,500 rpm and 250 Nm of torque between 2,750 and 4,250 rpm to provide effortless, spirited performance in all driving conditions. The 325i accelerates from rest to 100 km/h in just 7.0 seconds (7.7 seconds auto), and has a top speed of 245 km/h.

Its new light, clean and efficient engine uses just 8.4 litres of fuel per 100 km on the combined cycle (9.0-l/100 km auto).

As with all BMW 3 Series Sedans, the new 325i comes extremely well equipped, with new generation Dynamic Stability Control Plus, six airbags, Anti-Lock Brakes, Dynamic Brake Control, Cornering Brake Control, Automatic Stability Control + Traction, and Cruise Control with Brake Function.

Further standard features include 17-inch light alloy wheels, Rain Sensor and Automatic Headlight Control, front fog lights, Park Distance Control, six-stacker CD changer, through loading system with 60/40 split folding rear seats, electrically adjustable Dakota leather seats with driver memory function, and a retractable front armrest. Up front, the famous double kidney grille is finished with chrome fins.

As with all six-cylinder E90 generation 3 Series Sedans, customers can personalise their purchase with a wide range of advanced technology or sumptuous luxury features.

Unique BMW Active Steering, Active Cruise Control, Adaptive Headlamps, Xenon headlights, satellite navigation with Voice Control and Television masterminded by the dash-top mounted iDrive display monitor and iDrive Controller, LOGIC7 HiFi sound system, and an in-dash Mini-Disc player join perennial favourites such as Sport Suspension, sport seats, electric glass sun roof and leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel.

The BMW 325i Sedan is now available from the nationwide network of 42 BMW dealerships.