BMW 3 Series (E46)

BMW 3-Series (E46)
Manufacturer	BMW, Avtotor and Brilliance
Production	1998–2005
Assembly	Leipzig, Germany Munich, Germany Regensburg, Germany Rosslyn, South Africa 6th of October City, Egypt Kaliningrad, Russia Shenyang, China
Predecessor	BMW E36
Successor	BMW E90
Class	Compact executive car
Body style(s)	2-door coupe 2-door convertible 4-door sedan 5-door station wagon 3-door hatchback
Layout	Front engine, rear-wheel drive / All-wheel drive
Engine(s)	1.8L I4 16 valve 1.9L I4 2.0L I4 16 valve 2.0L I6 24 valve 2.2L I6 24 valve 2.5L I6 24 valve 2.8L I6 24 valve 3.0L I6 24 valve 3.2L I6 24 valve 4.0L V8 32 valve 2.0L I4 16 valve turbodiesel 2.9L I6 24 valve turbodiesel 3.0L I6 24 valve turbodiesel
Transmission(s)	5-speed manual 6-speed sequential manual 6-speed automatic 5-speed semi-automatic 5-speed automatic
Wheelbase	107.3 in (2725 mm)
Length	Sedan: 176.0 in (4470 mm) Wagon: 176.3 in (4478 mm) Convertible & Coupe: 176.7 in (4488 mm)
Width	Sedan & Wagon: 68.5 in (1740 mm) Convertible & Coupe: 69.2 in (1758 mm)
Height	Sedan: 55.7 in (1415 mm) 2000-02 325i Wagon: 55.5 in (1410 mm) 2000-02 325xi Wagon: 56.3 in (1430 mm) Convertible: 54.0 in (1372 mm) Coupe: 53.9 in (1369 mm) xi Sedan: 56.5 in (1435 mm)
Related	BMW M3 BMW X3 BMW Z4

The BMW E46 is the fourth generation of the 3 Series compact executive cars produced by BMW, produced from 1998 when it succeeded the BMW E36 until it was replaced by the BMW E90 in 2005.

The E46 was released in 1998 to worldwide markets (excluding the United States) in the sedan body style. In 1999, a coupé and touring body style became available to all markets, and the sedan was released in the United States. A convertible and hatchback body style was released in 2000, the latter only for Europe, Australia and New Zealand. The E46 experienced enormous success in all markets and was widely considered the performance benchmark of its class. The record selling year for the E46 chassis was 2002, when 561,249 vehicles were sold worldwide.

BMW M GmbH produced a high performance variant of the E46 chassis, designated the M3. This version had a larger, more powerful engine, sportier suspension, a limited slip differential, and various aesthetic modifications. The M3 was released in 2001 and was available only in the coupé and convertible body style. It was offered with two transmissions; a standard 6-speed manual, or an optional sequential manual gearbox.

Design

Exterior design

The E46 was developed as a modern replacement for the ageing and cornered BMW E36 chassis. DesignworksUSA was contracted by BMW to work alongside BMW Group's in house design team to create the exterior body work. Based on the E36 body shell, the design team put an emphasis on improving aerodynamics and increasing the car's aggressive stance.

Flexible electronics design

Since the start of production the entire in-car entertainment system (Radio Function, Navigation System, Television and Telecommunications systems) is based on a very flexible automotive computer system. As a result the E46 models can all be easily upgraded with the newest BMW technologies including BMW's Bluetooth System, the DVD based Navigation system, as well as BMW's CD changers that play MP3s.

Powertrain and engine design

An emphasis was put on reducing unsprung weight and increasing structural rigidity rather than increasing power output: the highest displacement model at release, the E46 328, had only 3 horsepower more than the E36 328. To counter this small power increase, the body shell of the E46 was claimed by BMW to be 70% more rigid than the E36's, and aluminum suspension components were used increasingly in order to decrease unsprung weight. In tune with BMW's core values, the E46 was released with a front engined rear-wheel drive layout with 50/50 weight distribution. This balance allows for optimal handling in regards to the drive train layout.

Petrol engines

Model	Engine	Production	Volume (in cc)	Type	Power	Torque	0–100 km/h (0-62 mph)
316i	M43TUB19	1998–2001	1895	I4, 8v	105 PS (77 kW; 104 bhp)	122 ft·lbf (165 N·m)	12.4 s
316i/ti	N42B18	2001–2004	1796	I4, 16v	115 PS (85 kW; 113 bhp)	129 ft·lbf (175 N·m)	10.9 s
	N46B18	2004–2005
318i/Ci	M43TUB19	1998–2001	1895	I4, 8v	120 PS (88 kW; 118 bhp)	133 ft·lbf (180 N·m)	10.4 s
318i/Ci/ti	N42B20	2002–2003	1995	I4, 16v	143 PS (105 kW; 141 bhp)	148 ft·lbf (201 N·m)	9.3 s
	N46B20	2004–2005
318Ci		2005–2007			150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp)		9.2 s
320i	M52TUB20	1998–2000	1991	I6, 24v	150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp)	140 ft·lbf (190 N·m)	9.9 s
320i/Ci	M54B22	2001–2007	2171		170 PS (125 kW; 168 bhp)	155 ft·lbf (210 N·m)	8.2 s
323i/Ci	M52TUB25	1998–2000	2494		170 PS (125 kW; 168 bhp)	181 ft·lbf (245 N·m)	8.0 s
325i/xi/Ci/ti (US)	M54B25	2001–2005			184 bhp (137 kW; 187 PS)	175 ft·lbf (237 N·m)	7.3 s
325i/Ci SULEV (US)	M56B25	2002–2005			184 bhp (137 kW; 187 PS)	175 ft·lbf (237 N·m)	7.3 s
325i/xi/Ci/ti (EUR)	M54B25	2001–2007	2494		192 bhp (143 kW; 195 PS)	181 ft·lbf (245 N·m)	7.2 s
328i/Ci	M52TUB28	1998–2000	2793		193 bhp (144 kW; 196 PS)	206 ft·lbf (279 N·m)	7.0 s
330i/xi/Ci	M54B30	2000–2007	2979		231 bhp (172 kW; 234 PS)	214 ft·lbf (290 N·m)	6.5 s
330i/Ci ZHP (US Only)		2003–2006			235 bhp (175 kW; 238 PS)	222 ft·lbf (301 N·m)	5.8 s
M3 (US)	S54B32	2001–2006	3246		333 bhp (248 kW; 338 PS)	262 ft·lbf (355 N·m)	5.2 s
M3 (EUR)		2001–2006			343 bhp (256 kW; 348 PS)	269 ft·lbf (365 N·m)	5.0 s
M3 CSL		2003–2004			355 bhp (265 kW; 360 PS)	273 ft·lbf (370 N·m)	4.8 s
M3 GTR (Street)		2001	3997	V8, 32v	444 bhp (331 kW; 450 PS)	345 ft·lbf (468 N·m)
M3 GTR (Race)		2001–2005			500 bhp (373 kW; 507 PS)	370 ft·lbf (502 N·m)

Diesel engines

Model	Engine	Production	Volume (in cc)	Type	Power	Torque	0–100 km/h (0-62 mph)
318d/td	M47D20	2001–2005	1951	I4, 16v	115 PS (85 kW; 113 bhp)	195 ft·lbf (264 N·m)	10.7 s
320d	M47D20	1999–2001	1951	I4, 16v	136 PS (100 kW; 134 bhp)	207 ft·lbf (281 N·m)	9.9 s
320d/cd/td	M47TUD20	2001–2007	1995	I4, 16v	150 PS (110 kW; 148 bhp)	243 ft·lbf (329 N·m)	8.8 s
330d/xd/cd	M57D30	1999–2003	2926	I6, 24v	184 PS (135 kW; 181 bhp)	288 ft·lbf (390 N·m)	7.8 s
	M57TUD30	2004–2007	2993		204 PS (150 kW; 201 bhp)	302 ft·lbf (409 N·m)	7.2 s

Model badging

316

The 316 was introduced in 1999 and has the smallest engine available in the E46, the 1.9 L BMW M43 producing 105 hp (78 kW) and 165 N·m (122 ft·lbf). Like all 4 cylinder models, it was not released into the United States market. In 2001, the 316 was given a smaller, yet more powerful 1.8 L BMW N42 engine producing 116 hp (87 kW) and 175 N·m (129 ft·lbf).

318

The 318 was introduced in 1998 with the same engine as the 316, the 1.9 L BMW M43. However, it was designated the M43B19TU (technical update) and had dual balancing shafts which increased horsepower to 118 hp (88 kW) and torque to 180 N·m (133 ft·lbf). Along with the 316, the 318 received an updated engine in 2002: the 2.0 L BMW N42. It produced 143 hp (107 kW) and 200 N·m (148 ft·lbf). The 318 was not released into the United States market.

320

Sold in Canada, Ireland and the United Kingdom, it was the base model the E46 lineup there, powered by a 2.2-litre inline six making 168 horsepower. It would be succeeded in the succeeding E90 lineup by the 323i (another Canada-only configuration).

323

The 323 was one of the first E46 models available for purchase, 1998 for the sedan (excluding North American markets) and 1999 for the coupe (and sedan in North American markets). It was powered by BMW's 2.5 L M52 engine designated M52TUB25. The M52 engine was previously used in the E36; however, this 2.5 L version added dual VANOS, BMW's mechanically continuous variable valve timing system. This improved low end torque and fuel economy over the M52B25 used in the E36 323. The E46 323, despite having a 2.5L engine, was designated "323" and not "325", to increase the apparent spread between it and the correctly-numbered 328 to appeal to BMW enthusiasts.

The 323 ended its run after 2000, when it was then retired to make way for the updated E46 325.

328

The 328 was released alongside the 323 as a high-performance option, still using the BMW M52 engine. The E46 328 and 323 ended their production runs after three model years (1998–2000) when it was succeeded by the 330 and 325, respectively.

325

The 325 took over from the market position of the 323 and uses the same 2.5 L I6 engine, however the 325's engine has improved double-VANOS and fully dual pipe exhaust system. The European version makes 192 hp (143 kW), while the U.S./Canadian version had a catalytic converter installed which reduces the output to 184 hp (137 kW) .

330

The 330 succeeded the 328 as the top-performing E46 (excluding the M3), with the M54B30 making 231 PS (170 kW; 228 bhp) and 214 ft·lbf (290 N·m), while the performance package (ZHP) version had an output of 235 bhp (175 kW; 238 PS) and 222 ft·lbf (301 N·m).

Trim levels

United States market

Premium package (ZPP)

The premium package has been available on all 3-series cars. It typically included:

• Different wheels and tires (if ordered with the sport package, the sport package's wheels and tires are supplied)
• A multifunction steering wheel (If it was not already standard on the vehicle)
• Wood grain interior trim (if ordered with the sport package, the premium package wood is typically installed, unless specifically requested otherwise)
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers (not available on the 323; became standard equipment in 2004)
• Auto-dimming rear-view mirror
• Power seats
• Lumbar Support (not available on the 325)
• Moonroof (note: moonroof can also be ordered separately)

Sport package (ZSP)

The sport package was available on all E46's, excluding cars with the Performance package and the M3. It consisted of a three spoke sports leather steering wheel and had improved grip over the standard "square" steering wheel. The car was also given sport seats which provided better bolstering and support than the stock seats. They also had adjustable thigh supports and were available in manual or power. The sports package also offered 17 inch wheels standard, which came with staggered lower profile tires. Sport suspension was also given, which offered improved handling by way of firmer springs, a lower ride height, and tighter dampers.

Cold weather package (ZCW)

The cold weather package has been available on all 3-series and M3 cars. It typically included:

• Pass-through ski bag
• Heated seats
• Headlight washers
• Fold down rear seats

Performance package (ZHP)

2005 BMW 330Ci ZHP

2004 BMW 330CI Silver Grey Metallic

The performance package was an option given to E46 sedans from 2003 to 2005, coupes and convertibles from 2004-2006. It included various aesthetic changes over the regular 3 series, as well as functional and mechanical enhancements. It had M badges on each of its Style 135 wheels, with additional M badging on the multi-function steering wheel and atop the 6-speed short throw weighted shifter. In addition to the standard color options, the ZHP was available in the "Motorsport-only" color Imola Red. It received the "M-Tech II" bodykit standard, 18-inch staggered Style 135 wheels, high gloss anthracite window trim, and the coupe received clear turn signals (headlights, side-markers, and tail-lights) instead of the amber turn signals found on the standard 330Ci. The interior had also been modified with half cloth-half alcantara sports seats (optional upgrade to leather), an alcantara-wrapped sports steering wheel (switched to perforated leather in mid-2005), a shorter M-badged shift knob, anthracite colored cloth headliner, and aluminum "cubed" faux-carbon fiber interior trim (available in silver or black). The instrument gauge cluster was also modified with red needles and polished metal trim rings.

In the performance department, the ZHP was equipped with the more aggressive BMW Performance camshafts and a DME tune to increase power from 225 hp (168 kW) to 235 hp (175 kW). The engine redline was also raised from 6,500 rpm to 6,800 rpm to further take advantage of the new power band and higher power output achieved by the new camshafts at higher RPMs. As a result of the higher redline, the nut that fastens the oil pump's sprocket came with threadlocker pre-applied from the factory to keep the nut from falling off. The car also received a shorter final drive ratio which allows for faster acceleration; 3.07 vs. 2.93 for manuals and 3.64 vs. 3.38 for the automatic. Car and Driver magazine track-tested the car, which returned a 0-60 mph time of 5.6 seconds and passed through the 1/4 mile in 14.3 seconds. In 2003 the ZHP was the only non-M 3-series to feature a Getrag 6-speed manual transmission (the Steptronic automatic transmission was not available the first model year (2003), but it was offered from 2004-2006.

Suspension was modified over the standard suspension with firmer springs and dampers, larger anti-roll bars, stronger front control arm ball joints, a lower ride height, and slightly more negative camber. The Style 135 wheels also came equipped with the much stickier compound, Michelin Pilot Sport tires, in a staggered configuration with 225/40-18 tires in the front and 255/35-18 tires in the back.

In December 2010, project ZHP Registry was launched in an effort to keep track of E46 3-series ZHP vehicles.

Rest of world markets

ES

The ES trim level was the base level available for the European E46s from 2003. It included various safety features as standard equipment, such as anti-lock brakes, 6 airbags, dynamic stability control, and a factory installed alarm which were not common as standard features when the E46 was released. Comfort items such as heated and electric mirrors were also fitted standard. The ES trim did not include cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel (MFSW), leather steering wheel or gearknob, although these were offered as "at-cost" options.

SE

The SE trim level included the options the ES trim level was given, but added cruise control as part of the multi-function steering wheel, headlight washers, parking sensors, leather steering wheel and gearknob. It was the mid-range trim level that offered luxury items, but lacked the sporting items the M Sport and M Clubsport trim levels had, although the drivetrains of both SE and M Sport models were identical.

Sport / M Sport

The Sport (later M Sport) trim level included the options given on the ES and SE trim levels, but had additional performance-orientated items added. It came with the "M-tech" I or II bodykits (depending on when the car was ordered), half leather-half alcantara sports seats, sports suspension (comprising stiffer springs, dampers, and altered suspension geometry), gloss black external trim instead of the chrome trim of the SE, sports steering wheel and 17" lightweight style 68 alloy wheels.

The drivetrain of Sport / M-Sport models is identical to that of base / ES / SE variants.

M Clubsport

A 330Ci M Clubsport

The M Clubsport trim level is aesthetically similar to the United States Performance Package. The main difference is that the M Clubsport trim was not given the BMW performance camshafts that the ZHP obtained. Instead, it had 20 kilograms (44 lb) of sound deadening removed from the car. The M Clubsport trim shares the same suspension set up as the performance package (ZHP) in America, as well as the "cubed" interior trim and 18 inch style 135 wheels. However, changes from the ZHP include plastic front splitters on the M-Tech II bumper, a M-tech II styled rear spoiler (instead of the M3 trunk lip), and clubsport door sills. The M Clubsport also came with two "BMW Individual" colour options that were carried throughout the car, Estoril Blue and Velvet Blue.

Unlike the other trim levels, the M Clubsport trim was only available on the 330 and the 325.

Luxury package

This Canadian-only package offered the same options as the United States premium package.

Model nomenclature

"i"

The "i" badging indicates that the car has a fuel injection engine (Petrol) which first appeared in the E21 & E30 models.

"xi"

With the introduction of the xi models in 2001, BMW brought back AWD which hadn't been an option in the 3-series since 1991 when the E30 325iX was discontinued. BMW produced the 325xi and 330xi in the US between 2001–2005, but only in Sedan (4-door) trim.

The AWD models were well received by reviewers for giving customers in severe winter climates the option of an AWD 3-series. At the same time, the xi was criticized for its added weight, slower acceleration, decreased gas mileage, softer suspension, and poor original equipment tires.

The transfer case used in all BMW E46 xi models is manufactured by New Venture Gear, Inc., which is owned by Magna Powertrain. The NV 124 transfer case used in the E46 xi models is a full-time four-wheel-drive gear driven transfer case.

The xi models have a permanent front/rear 38:62 torque split which differs from the E46's successor, the E9X, which incorporated BMW's new xDrive platform. Both the front and rear differentials in the E46 xi are open differentials which are aided by DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) to control wheel spin and oversteer/understeer.

The xi models were only produced in left-hand drive, and as such were not sold in RHD markets such as the United Kingdom.

"d"

The "d" indicates that the car has a diesel powered engine.

"Ci"

The "Ci" indicates that the car is a coupe with a petrol powered engine.

"Cd"

The "Cd" indicates that the car is a coupe with a diesel powered engine.

"Cic"

The "Cic" indicates that the car is a 2 door convertible with a petrol powered engine. These cars were badged Ci.

"iT"

The "T" in "iT" stands for "Touring", the BMW nomenclature for a 4 door wagon. It has a petrol powered engine. These cars are just badged as "i".

"ti"

The 'ti' badge on the E46 Compact stands for 'Touring International' This harks back to the BMW 2002 tii touring.

"td"

The 'td' badge indicates a Compact powered by a diesel engine (a variation of the ti badge for petrol-engined variants)

Changes by Model Year

Mid-year 1998 (MY 99)

• 316, 318, 320, 323, and 328 sedans are released to worldwide markets, designated "i"(excluding the US).

1999

• 323 and 328 E46 Sedans introduced in the US (The 316 to 320 models were not released in the US to the general public at any point).
• E46 Coupe is launched into worldwide markets, designated "Ci" (excluding the US).
• E46 Touring is launched into worldwide markets, designated "iT" (excluding the US).

2000

• E46 Coupe is launched into the US.
• E46 Touring is launched into the US.
• Dynamic Stability Control replaces Automatic Stability Control.
• Auto Recirculation becomes standard.
• The 323 has 15" Alloy wheels standard (replacing hub caps for no-option package 323s).
• The Premium Package has wood trim and moonroof standard, with 16" wheels only (no more 15" offered).
• The 323 gets the Sport/Premium combo package offered.
• Power seats are a stand-alone option on 323.

Mid-year 2000 (9/99)

• Power seats with driver's seat memory upgraded to include exterior mirror memory.
• Radio has clock function; as a result, an onboard computer function and the time can be displayed at the same time.
• Child seat tether anchorages added as standard equipment.
• Center console buttons redesigned.
• New key design
• Automatic transmission changes to Steptronic

2001

• 323i is replaced by the 325i and receives the new M54B25 engine
• 328i is replaced by the 330i and receives the new M54B30 engine
• New sport steering wheel with circular airbag cover.
• Xenon/HID equipped with larger projector lens.
• New dual exhaust from headers to muffler.
• 325i sports package gets 17x8 style 44 wheels.
• 330: lumbar adjustments standard with leather seats.
• 330: 17" rims are standard
• 330: Sports package rims are changed to syle M68 with 17x7.5 up front and 17x8.5 in the rear.
• 330: Brakes are 1" larger
• 330: Headlight washer jets standard on cold-weather package
• 330: Silver trim around headlights
• 330: "Updated" steering (more power assist)
• Coupes get titanium front spoiler trim.

Mid-year 2001 (3/01)

• 325i and 325iT: New standard equipment: foglights, cruise control, & automatic climate control
• 325Ci and 325Cic: New standard equipment: automatic Climate Control
• 330: Due to customer feedback, there was a midyear change back to a steering system with less boost, although more than 323s and 328s had. BMW offered a free "steering retrofit" to reduce the boost for some time. You now must pay for this retrofit. This only affected 2001 cars.
• 330i: New standard equipment: power Seats, Harman Kardon stereo, & sport suspension
• 330Ci & 330Cic: New standard equipment: Harman Kardon stereo

2002

• NAV systems now have a widescreen 16x9 display.
• E46 Sedans and wagons receive a facelift: New headlight and taillight designs, side directional marker moved and re-shaped, new wider grille, new hood, new front bumpers for 325i and 330i without sport package.
• 330i 18" wheel option offered
• 318i receives an engine boost to 2.0L
• 320d Receives new engine 148 bhp (110 kW; 150 PS)
• Xenon headlight option upgraded to Bi-xenon configuration

Mid-year 2002 (9/02)

• Sirius satellite radio now pre-wired on non-navigation cars

2003

• NAV system becomes DVD based (Mark IV NAV system). In addition, the navigation system will now be available with in-dash CD-player or cassette player.
• The sound system head unit now has a new auxiliary input (aux input kit required)
• Sedans receive third rear headrest and 3-point seatbelt.
• 325: Rain sensor and automatic headlight control will now be part of the Premium Package.
• 325: Front armrest will be standard in the sedan and sport wagon.
• 325: Moonroof will be standard in the sport wagon.
• 325: SULEV 325i, 325Ci, and 325iT are introduced with the M56 motor to meet new emission requirements. The SULEV M56 motor was offered optionally and only comes with the Steptronic transmission.
• 330: Tire Pressure Monitor replaces the Flat Tire monitor on vehicles with run-flat tires. The alarm display and button in the middle console remain unchanged.
• 330xi with Sport Package will come with 17" all-season run-flat tires with styling 98 wheels (same as the current run-flat tire option).

Mid-year 2003 (3/03)

• Performance package introduced on the 330i sedan. It's only offered with a manual transmission and NOT offered with the premium package.
• All E46s are now pre-wired for the BMW Bluetooth kit
• All 330 manual transmissions now 6-speed instead of 5-speed

Mid-year 2003 (6/03)

• M3 CSL production (1400 units)

Mid-year 2003 (9/03)

• All 330i/330xi Sedans, and 330Ci Coupes must be ordered with option 403 - moonroof.
• All 330Ci Convertibles must be ordered with ZPP - premium package.
• Myrtle wood is no longer available as a stand-alone option. It will only be available when the Premium Package is ordered.
• A new interior trim will be made available on all 3 Series. SA 426 or Aluminum "Brushed Columns" trim will be available as a no cost option when the Premium Package is ordered. If the Premium Package is ordered and SA 426 is not specified, the car will be equipped with Myrtle Wood trim (as before)
• Cars equipped with Navigation are now pre-wired for Sirius

Mid-year 2003 (10/03)

• SMG or Sequential Manual Gearbox available in conjunction with the sport package (not available in conjunction with the Performance Package or all-wheel drive models).

2004

• Performance package now available on coupes and convertibles, as well as with the automatic transmission and the premium package (on all 330s).
• The climate control head unit has a new control button layout (temp, fan and recirculate control buttons) for simpler operation and ease of use.
• The rain sensor and automatic headlight control standard for all Sedans and Sports Wagons. These features were previously only available with the Premium Package (ZPP).
• Automatic STEPTRONIC transmission will be available in conjunction with the Performance Package.
• New Sport Package wheel for 325i Sedan and Sports Wagon. Styling 119 replaces Styling 96.
• New base wheel for the 330i/330xi Sedan and 325xi Sedan/Sports Wagon when equipped with the Sport Package. New wheel replaces Styling 73.
• Titanium exterior trim on the front grille and headlights is no longer different for 330i and 330xi Sedans. (The headlights are black and the front spoiler is a combination of black and body color.)
• Coupes and convertibles receive a face lift with a new front grille (larger "BMW kidneys"), revised lower bumper design and front/rear light redesign including LED tail lights, repositioned side turn signal lights and clear front corners on sport package cars.
• The Xenon headlight package was upgraded to the Adaptive Xenon package for coupes/convertibles only.
• 325i and 325iT: Styling 119 (17 x 8) with performance tires replaces Styling 96 when the sport package (ZSP) is ordered.
• 330i/330xi get a new base wheels. 325xiT and 330xiT get new Sport Package wheels.
• Styling 137 (17 x 7) with all-season tires replaces Styling 73, also known as the Radial spoke.

2005

• Lumbar seat support added to the premium package on the 325.
• CD shuttle became MP3 compatible

Mid-year 2005 (5/05)

• Performance package 330s get a perforated leather steering wheel instead of alcantara.

2006

• Sedans discontinued.
• LCMs now support "comfort blinker" function (triple flash). Must be activated by dealer

SULEV

BMW introduced a super ultra low emission vehicle (SULEV) into the select regions of the United States to meet stricter emission standards. California, New York, and Massachusetts received the SULEV E46's in 2003, and Vermont in 2004. They received a variant of the M54 engine, the BMW M56. The M56 meets SULEV standards, as well as partial zero emission vehicle (PZEV) and zero evaporative emissions requirements. The M56 is claimed to have identical power as its M54 counterpart.

Information sticker on the SULEV radiator

Engine bay of a 2004 325i SULEV

M3

Main article: E46 M3

 

CSL

A silver BMW M3 CSL.

The BMW M3 CSL (coupe sports lightweight) was a limited edition version of the M3, with 1,400 cars being produced for its 2004 model year run. The CSL was never released into the North American market, and was only available in two colours - Silver Grey Metallic and Black Sapphire Metallic.

As its name suggests, an emphasis was put on reducing weight. The M3 CSL has a kerb weight of 1,385 kg (3,050 lb), 110 kg (240 lb) lighter than the regular M3. The CSL features many weight saving technologies taken from Formula One racing applications. A large proportion of the M3's sound insulation has been removed, as have the power windows, electric seats, and navigation systems. Air conditioning and stereo systems could be retrofitted free of cost, but were not available standard. The CSL's unique body pieces are all crafted from carbon fiber reinforced polymer. Glass-reinforced plastics are used throughout structural points in the car. The rear glass window was replaced with lightweight plastic. Although the CSL loses a considerable amount of kerb weight from its original version, the focus was put on strategically reducing or moving the weight in the car rather than the raw amount of weight that could be lost. This is to retain the ideal 50:50 weight distribution characteristics the E46 has. For example, the roof is constructed from carbon fiber reinforced plastic. While this only reduces the kerb weight of the car by 7 kg (15 lb), it lowers the center of gravity of the car and decreases body flex.

A black M3 E46 CSL.

In order to improve the handling ability of the car, the entire suspension system was further refined. Specially developed racing springs and dampers are given to the CSL, and a tightened steering ratio (14.5:1 vs 15.4:1 on the regular M3) improves responsiveness. The braking system is also modified, with larger front and rear floating rotors and calipers from the E39 M5. The CSL is given a retuned dynamic stability control system with a "M track mode" setting that allows the car to be pushed to its absolute limits before being activated.

The 3.2l engine used in the M3, the BMW S54, has been modified to increased output by 17 hp (13 kW) and 5 N·m (1 lbf) over the European M3. This is achieved through a high flow carbon fiber air intake, modified valve and camshaft timing, and a retuned DME. However, the engine is further modified in order to reduce weight - it features a lightweight exhaust manifold and thinner exhaust piping. Additionally, the intake and exhaust manifolds are slightly straightened to improve engine responsiveness.

The CSL also has various aesthetic modifications over the standard M3. It received an aerodynamic lightweight body kit which included carbon fiber front splitters that improved downforce at high speeds by 50%, as well as a carbon fiber rear diffuser. The front bumper has a distinct hole that is used to draw cool air into the newly designed air intake. The boot lid is redesigned to incorporate a raised lip, unlike the standard M3 where one is simply added on to a flat boot. The CSL was sold with distinct 19 inch lightweight forged BBS alloy rims that came with Michelin Pilot Sport Cup semi-slick racing tires.

The interior of the CSL is redesigned with a sporty-weight saving theme. The CSL obtains fiberglass front racing bucket seats, and fiberglass backed rear seats. The center console, door panels and trim, and headliner are all formed from carbon fiber, and the steering wheel is redesigned with cruise control, stereo, and phone controls removed to include just a single button that activates the M track mode.

The SMG II drivelogic semi-automatic transmission is a Getrag 6-speed conventional manual transmission, but with an electrohydraulically actuated clutch pedal, similar to an Formula One style transmission. The regular M3 has the manual transmission as standard and the SMG II automated manual as an option, however the CSL is only offered with the SMG II and that unit also received a more advanced drivelogic unit that was capable of making shifts in 0.08 of a second.

North American competition package (ZCP)

As the M3 CSL was not available to the North American markets, BMW released an optional "competition package" (option code ZCP) to fill the market void. It upgraded the normal M3 by way of 19 inch cast lightweight CSL style wheels, detuned CSL suspension components, a tighter steering ratio, and the CSLs brakes. It also included a detuned version of the CSLs dynamic stability control.