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Performance has a new face, and it’s got a green tint.

BMW’s 335d turbodiesel sedan accelerates like a scalded dog, yet it returns 23 miles per gallon in the city and 36 on the highway. It is the most fuel-efficient BMW.

Diesels are popular in Europe, mostly because they are roughly 25 percent more efficient than gasoline engines, and they deliver 20 percent fewer carbon dioxide emissions. Advanced technology means that diesels are no longer loud and smelly like many used to be, and they are more sophisticated than their gasoline counterparts.

One lesson learned from the 335d is that conserving fuel and enjoying performance are not mutually exclusive.

BMW uses two turbochargers to spread the diesel’s power across an already wide band of rpm. Direct fuel injection with piezo injectors is also an important factor in the engine’s ability to deliver good fuel economy and gobs of low-end torque.

Torque is the force that moves the car, and for most driving, it is more important than horsepower. BMW’s diesel delivers its maximum torque at just 1,750 rpm, so the car responds almost instantly to the throttle.

With as much torque as a 6.2-liter Chevrolet V-8, the 3.0-liter six-cylinder pushes the 335 sedan to 60 miles per hour in 6 seconds. I averaged nearly 28 mpg in mixed city and freeway driving.

The 335d, with a base price of $43,900, is $3,000 more than a 335i.

Like Audi, Volkswagen and Mercedes-Benz, BMW injects urea, called AdBlue, into a catalyst to meet the most stringent emission standards of California. AdBlue needs to be refilled at each oil change. The service will be covered under BMW’s no-charge service for the vehicle’s first four years or 50,000 miles.

BMW diesel models qualify for an Internal Revenue Service Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle Tax Credit because the engine burns significantly less fuel and produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions.

Diesel fuel is not available at every station, but it is plentiful enough that finding it should not be a problem.

The 335d has the soul of a sports sedan and it handles accordingly. The firm suspension is compliant enough to be comfortable, yet the car feels composed and confident in almost any driving situation.

BMWs always have great brakes, and the 335d is no exception. Anti-lock, traction control and vehicle stability control are all standard.

The 335d’s cabin is a bit on the snug side, and adults are likely to find the back-seat legroom is none too generous.

The trunk has plenty of space, and the optional fold-down rear seat is a real benefit.

BMW’s iDrive uses a knob on the center console to control many of the vehicle’s functions and settings. In the past, the iDrive menus have not been easy to understand, but things are improving. The system is still not as intuitive as it should be.

Price

The base price of the test vehicle was $43,900. Options included a heated steering wheel, fold-down rear seats, heated front seats, navigation system, satellite radio and a USB iPod adapter. The sticker price was $52,820.

Warranty

Four years or 50,000 miles with free routine maintenance for four years or 50,000 miles.

2009 BMW 335d

Engine: 3.0-liter, 265-hp 6-cyl.

Transmission: Automatic

Rear-wheel drive

Wheelbase: 108.7 inches

Curb weight: 4,883 lbs.

Base price: $43,900

As driven: $52,820

MPG ratings: 23 city, 36 hwy.

Tom Strongman’s e-mail address is tom@tomstrongman.com.