BMW E46 318ci
The E46 was introduced in 1998 as a 1999 model, in saloon version only, replacing that of the E36 the same year, while the older "E36" coupé and convertible remained for one more year. This was keeping with what is now known as the traditional 3-series model introduction cycle. The initial inline-six engines available were the 2.5 L 323 and 2.8 L 328 (the 323 badge did not match engine displacement but it was numbered as such to increase the spread between both models). The touring and coupémodels appeared in 1999 with BMW's newly designed steptronic manumatic transmission, and the convertible and M3 later in 2000. The E46 Compact, a three-door hatchback, was revealed in 2001 to be sold in European and Australian markets. xDrive all-wheel drive was introduced as an option in 2001 for left hand drive markets only due to clashes between the running gear and steering rack.
The first major overhaul occurred when the E46 saloon underwent a facelift from September 2001, which included re-designed headlights, new bumpers and a stiffer chassis. Also, the 316i and 318i models received new, more powerful engines. Then from March 2003 the coupe and convertible had a facelift which included new headlights, new front wings and bumpers, new selections in exterior colour, and redesigned sidemarker lights and LED tail lights. The M3s got a much more mild facelift that same year, with the inclusion of the updated boot and LED tail lights from the coupe/convertible.
The first major overhaul occurred when the E46 saloon underwent a facelift from September 2001, which included re-designed headlights, new bumpers and a stiffer chassis. Also, the 316i and 318i models received new, more powerful engines. Then from March 2003 the coupe and convertible had a facelift which included new headlights, new front wings and bumpers, new selections in exterior colour, and redesigned sidemarker lights and LED tail lights. The M3s got a much more mild facelift that same year, with the inclusion of the updated boot and LED tail lights from the coupe/convertible.