1999-2005 BMW 3-Series: Overview

Vehicle Highlights

BMW redesigned its best-selling line, the near-luxury 3-Series, for 1999. In addition to gaining a new profile and plenty of new features, the 3-Series got roomier back seats. Weights and exterior dimensions went up only marginally. Four-door sedans debuted in fall 1998, in new 323i and 328i form, with two different six-cylinder engine sizes. The 323i used a 2.5-liter engine, replacing the four-cylinder 318i as BMW's entry-level sedan. The 328i retained its 2.8-liter engine. Manual shift was standard, with a five-speed automatic transmission optional. Traction control was standard, along with Cornering Brake Control, designed to stabilize the car under hard braking in turns. Front passengers got six airbags to cushion front and side impacts. Rear side-impact airbags were newly optional. So was Park Distance Control, which beeped to signal the presence of objects to the rear when backing up.