IN the wake of the announcement of a new BMW 1-Series M coupe, the rest of the company's smallest range has been given a serious revamp.

Launching in March, Coupe and Convertible have a redesigned nose to give better aerodynamics and a new ‘aero curtain' system which directs air across the front of the wheel arches to reduce turbulence.

Emissions have been reduced across the range, with the 118d now rated at just 118g/km of CO2, while all 2.0-litre petrol versions fall below 155g/km.

Start-stop is fitted to all manual models and diesel particulate filters, brake energy regeneration, electric power steering (excluding 135i), intelligent alternator control and optimum shift indicator for manual models are all standard.

All get dynamic stability control, halogen headlights, MP3 compatible stereo and an easy access rear seat system.

Engines are 2.0 and 3.0-litre petrol with power ranging from 170 to 306bhp and three versions of the same 2.0-litre diesel ranging from 143 to 204bhp.

Sounds like the Sport model will be worth going for because it has £1,200 worth of extra kit over the ES for the same price.

This includes multi-function steering wheel and sports seats and the SE adds rear parking sensors and dual zone climate.

: Audi A3