BMW 3-Series Model History

Considered a benchmark premium entry-level sedan, the BMW 3 Series entered the United States market in the 1970s but reached its zenith in the 1990s. For the 1998 model year, the BMW 3 Series was popularly offered as a coupe, sedan and convertible. From 1995 to 1999, the BMW 3 Series was also available in an affordably priced three-door hatchback called the 318ti.

Three engine choices existed for the BMW 3 Series not including the high-performance M3 model. A fourth-generation BMW 3 Series (known by some as the E46) debuted in 1998 beginning with a restyled sedan. Following the departure of the 318ti hatchback, the BMW 323i Wagon was added to the North American line-up in 2000. Exclusively rear-wheel drive until 2001, the BMW 3 Series would offer optional xDrive all-wheel drive onward. Handling and comfort technology grew considerably more advanced during the fourth generation E46 and for the fifth-generation E90 BMW 3 Series.

Introduced for the 2006 model year, the fifth-generation BMW 3 Series offered push-button ignition, run-flat tires and added the iDrive controlled navigation system. On the performance side, a 2007 BMW M3 model powered by its first production V-8 engine provided a throaty 414 horsepower. From 2009 to 2011, a 265-horsepower 3-liter diesel engine 3 Series was available delivering 23 miles per gallon city and 36 miles per gallon highway fuel economy. The latest generation BMW 3 Series debuted in 2012. For 2014, BMW has decided to reclassify the vehicles in their line-up. The BMW 3 Series will continue to exist as a four-door sedan while the coupe becomes the 4 Series.