BMW is set to introduce a series of Business Edition models to its 1, 3 and X1 ranges, in an effort to boost their appeal to small businesses and company car drivers.
July sees the debut of the new BMW 116d EfficientDynamics Business 5-door hatchback, which will manage 74mpg and emit 99g/km of CO2. This makes it road-tax exempt and subject to just 14 percent company car tax. That’s £633 per year for a basic rate taxpayer, or £1,265 at 40 percent.
All the cars get satnav, Bluetooth, and BMW Assist
The 116d ED Business models add Dakota leather upholstery, the BMW Business Media Package and heated seats.
The Media Package includes sat-nav and live traffic updates, Bluetooth connectivity for your mobile phone, and BMW Assist – which connects your car to the emergency services in the event of an accident or breakdown.
Also available is the new X1 sDrive 20d EfficientDynamics Business model.
Although it looks like a 4WD in fact it’s not, so you don’t have the associated hike in running costs. Company car tax stands at 18 percent – £951 for basic rate tax payers and £1901 at 40 percent. In addition to sat-nav, Bluetooth and leather seats, all X1 Business model add a set of 17-inch alloy wheels.
Completing the new line-up are the 3 Series saloon and Touring estate Business models.
The 320d EfficientDynamics Business diesel saloon has a £907 tax bill for 20 percent taxpayers, or £1815 at 40 percent.
However, it’s the 320i EfficientDynamics Business petrol that’s arguably a better proposition for SME owners and company car drivers. Without the 3 percent diesel premium, the company car tax rate is 16 percent – £832 per year for 20% tax payers and £1664 at 40 percent. It’ll still do 53mpg, and you’ll benefit from punchy performance and the near silent engine.
All 3 Series EfficientDynamics Business models get sat-nav, heated leather seats and Bluetooth as well as 16-inch alloy wheels.
The 1, 3 and X1 Bunsiness ranges are available from July and command a £1400 premium over standard ED models, yet represent a big saving when you factor in all the extra equipment.