3 Series (E46)

The BMW E46 is the fourth generation of the BMW 3 Series range of compact executive cars, which was produced from 1997 to 2006. The body styles of the range are:

- 4-door sedan/saloon

- 2-door coupé

- 2-door convertible

- 5-door wagon/estate (marketed as "Touring")

- 3-door hatchback (see BMW 3 Series Compact)

All-wheel drive, which was last available in the 3 Series in 1991, was reintroduced for the E46 on the 325xi, 330xi and 330xd models. The E46 was the first 3 Series to be available with an engine using Valvetronic (variable valve lift). Various electronic features were also introduced to the 3 Series in the E46 generation, including satellite navigation, electronic brake-force distribution, rain-sensing wipers and LED tail-lights.

The E46 M3 is powered by the BMW S54 inline-six engine with either a 6-speed manual or a 6-speed SMG-II automated manual transmission. The M3 was introduced in late 2000 and was produced in coupé and convertible body styles only.

Following the introduction of the E90 3 Series sedans in late 2004, the E46 began to be phased out. However the E46 coupé and convertible body styles remained in production until August 2006.