Highlights:

• A new model will be launched, the 318 Ci Convertible. Not available in some markets.

• There is a new front-end design for the 3 Series Sedan and Touring models featuring:

  • New kidney grille
  • Lower front and rear valance
  • New headlight and indicator design
  • Side repeater indicator light
    
    

• The Sedan model (only) will get a new rear end light cluster. There will be no styling changes for the Coupe and Convertible models.

• There will be more responsive steering for all 3 Series models. This is in response to consumer and press complaints that the 2001 model year 3 Series' steering was too light and lacking in feel.

• Suspension settings will be revised for all 3 Series models.

• Air conditioning will be now standard on all non-SE 3 Series 4-cylinder models (except the 316ti Compact).

• There will be some new interior trims and three new exterior colors.

• All 3 Series 6-cylinder models will have Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard equipment.

• New 16-inch alloy wheels are standard on 4-cylinder SE models of the Sedan, Touring and Compact.

• A new wide-screen on-board monitor has the ability to display navigation info in split screen mode so you can read the direction and see a map simultaneously.

• The rain sensor option has been upgraded with light beam control to automatically activate the lights when it becomes dark. No more turning on the lights manually when going through a tunnel.

• The action of the Steptronic transmission has been redesigned so that pushing the lever forward will now result in changing down a gear (rather than up).

Sequential Manual Gearbox (SMG):

SMG is a clutch-less manual 5-speed transmission that is operated by two paddles behind the steering wheel or via the gearshift lever.  SMG will be available as optional equipment for the 325i and 330i Sedan and Coupe models.  SMG should be available by the end of the year for Euro models; however, there are no current plans for SMG on US models except the M3.

318 Model:

• All 318i models use the new 2-liter 4-cylinder Valvetronic engine produced at the Hams Hall engine plant in the UK. Features:
  
  
  • Engine produces 143 hp and 200 Nm of torque
  • Electronic throttle butterfly
  • Fully variable valve lift
  • 16% improvement in fuel economy
  • Reduction in CO2 emissions
  • Increase of power by 21 percent
  • 45.3 mpg (combined EU cycle)
    
    

• The new 318 Ci Convertible will also use the 143 hp Valvetronic engine.

• The retail price for the 318 Ci Convertible is L24,845 in the UK.

320d Model:

• The 320d (diesel) model for Sedan, Touring and Compact has common rail fuel injection. Other specs:
  
  • 150 hp 
  • 330 Nm of torque
  • 51.4 mpg (combined EU cycle)
  • 5 speed automatic transmission