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3 Series - e46 (1999 - 2005) |
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Page 3 of 4
BMW 3 Series Compact:
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, Compact can be defined as 'condensed'
and the success of the car in the UK suggests that it offers all that is rewarding
in the 3 Series models, but in a condensed form.
The third generation Compact, and BMW's entry-point model, was launched in 2001,
therefore this year's model update is a fine-tuning job rather than a serious
makeover.
The bodywork detailing is confined to a sporty new side sill, a wider boot
grab handle and a re-designed rear light cluster (NB: does not feature LED technology).
DSC is now standard on all Compacts, whilst the six-cylinder 325ti petrol and
the four cylinder 320td diesel cars now incorporate the six speed manual transmission.
The SMG system from the 330Ci and 325Ci is also added as an option to the 325ti
Compact.
The Compact remains 15 kg lighter than its 3 Series Coupé cousin, and in
its super-agile 325ti form, achieves an outstanding 0-62 figure of 7.1 seconds
and a top speed of 146 mph. Impressive figures are not, however, limited to petrol-power.
The 320td Compact features BMW's renowned 2.0-litre diesel unit and manages over
64 mpg on the out-of-town cycle. With nearly 14 gallons available, that's a potential
of almost 900 miles between fill-ups.
Warm off the press:
Recent 3 Series news has not been limited to the 2003 model updates. The new
year announcement of a 330Cd, marrying the 3 Series Coupé with BMW's
brand new version of its already legendary 3.0-litre diesel unit, caused a minor
heart murmur amongst petrol devotees, whilst the introduction of sporty ES models
in January launched a BMW 318 for less than £20,000.
Free Service and Maintenance packs on BMW diesels have also been introduced and
the availability of the ever-popular 'Sport' derivatives was extended within the
range.
The encore:
Jim O'Donnell, BMW Great Britain's managing director said: "The 3 Series
remains key to BMW's success in the UK. The company's ability to remain focused
on the model, whilst brand new BMW products like the new 5 Series and Z4 are
being launched, continues to provide an incredibly tempting proposition to new
and used customers, whether in the retail or corporate sector. We are certainly
not complacent about 3 Series and 2003's model year enhancements will keep the
range fresh."
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