For 2002, the 3 Series models include sporty sedan, versatile wagon, elegant coupe, stylish convertible, and finally M3, the ultimate in performance.

The 3 Series sedan and wagon have a fresh, new look.

The new look includes a new kidney grille, lower front and rear valance, a new headlight and indicator design, and the inclusion of the side repeater indicator into the line behind the front wheel arch.

2002 3 Series features:

• A design update for the sedans and sport wagons.
• Upgrading of the optional Xenon headlights to Bi-xenon lights, which include both low and high beams.
• Additional functions for the standard Dynamic Stability Control system, including a new traction-control mode and (in all-wheel-drive models) Hill Descent Control.
• Steering and suspension refinements to enhance handling and road feel.
• New optional run-flat tires and Flat Tire Monitor on the 330 models.
• Newly available 18-in. sport wheels and tires on 330 models.
• New wheel designs and other new features in some option packages.
• Automatic headlight control added to all 330 models equipped with the Premium Package.
• Rear-seat side-impact airbags available in coupes and convertibles.
• New exterior and interior colors.
• New interior trim

2002 3 Series model line:

The range of models has not changed from 2001, when the 325 and 330 were introduced:

• 325i sedan is powered by the 2.5-liter, 184-hp engine.
• 325xi sedan is an all-wheel-drive version of the 325i sedan.
• 325i sport wagon is a 5-door wagon.
• 325xi sport wagon is the 5-door wagon with all-wheel drive.
• 325Ci coupe is the 2-door model with standard split folding rear seats.
• 325Ci convertible.
• 330i sedan has the same profile as the 325i sedan but more power, additional standard equipment and design upgrades.
• 330xi sedan is the 330i sedan with all-wheel drive.
• 330Ci coupe has a larger engine and other features.
• 330Ci premium convertible.

Sedans and Wagons

At the front, the lighting clusters have been reshaped, with new cutouts beneath the headlights and upward-sweeping wraparounds. The optional Bi-xenon headlights, formerly for low beams only, now encompass high beams as well. The outer lamps provide high-intensity-discharge illumination on low and high beams, while the inner ones augment the high beams with halogen lighting. Auto-leveling of the Bi-xenon lights continues to be included in this option.

A new automatic headlight control, included in the 330 models' Premium Package, turns on exterior lighting in low ambient light conditions. The grilles have been widened. The hood's lines now sweep outward and rearward from the grilles' upper outer corners back to the body's A-pillars. Front fenders are also modified, with more prominent wheel-opening flares that "interrupt" the side character lines for an additional element of design interest. Bumpers, front and rear, have been given a simpler, cleaner look and the taillight units' functional segments reapportioned to give the main taillights greater illuminated area. And the sedans' and sport wagon's Sport Package has a new wheel design as well.

Coupes and Convertibles

Sports Package equipped coupes and convertibles now get clear turn signal lenses. All models get at least one new color. Sedans and wagons get Electric Red and subtle Gray Green Metallic. Coupes and convertibles get Electric Red only. Gray Green Metallic was added to their color selection during the 2001 model year.