2003 3Series Coupe Facelift?

[glenn bayard]

What is probability that 2003 3 Series Coupe will have revised front/rear, given 2002 sedan received same? I love current sytle but amber turn signals are unattractive vs current clear on M3, plus(personal opionion) rear bumper to busy/unattractive. Thanks.

[F20C]

The current model life runs till MY2004 I believe. So there is still 3 years left. Chances are coupe will receive minor treatment as well.

[jinushaun]

God I hope not!!

Its appearence has been softened and it doesn't look as agressive anymore. It's interesting to note that it's only the saloon and touring versions were changed, and the "sportier-looking" coupes remained the same. Maybe they're trying to give it a family look?!? The wider grill (like 7-series, try to be classier?) and curvy headlamps suggest this. With the exception of the cosmetic changes, I like the other updates they made (ie: better streering/handling, cd). What happened to SMG? I thought the 2002 were gonna get this? Maybe I'm reading too many UK magazine...

I hope the redesigned 2004 3 series (E69? Can't remember) doesn't look like any of the other new BMW cars I've seen. New Z3? X Coupe? The E65 7 series with the yellow front turn signals on the TOP? The E65 with the strip of light in the back reminds me of a Cadilac...sick! Though I praise BMW's effort to make they cars more distinguishable from one another (ie: E36 3 and E39 5), I hope they don't butcher up the looks. At least keep the 3 series agressive and sporty looking--I don't want to be driving Ms Daisy or be mistaken for a family car any time soon.

[surfskier]

I agree! I don't like the new front-end for the 2002 sedan. It just looks too wimpy, too simple, and less classy. If they want to give a similar look to the coupe, they need to add a more aggressive front spoiler.
Also, the new 7 series body doesn't look too exciting. In that class, I would have to save that the S-Class looks the best followed by the A8 and then the new 7. The new 7 doesn't look as sporty as the one it replaces and what is up with the weird looking rear deck-lid!

[glenn bayard]

Thanks for your reply re 3 series sedan update, it was much appreciated. Glenn

[Ultimateone]

Originally posted by surfskier
I agree! I don't like the new front-end for the 2002 sedan. It just looks too wimpy, too simple, and less classy. If they want to give a similar look to the coupe, they need to add a more aggressive front spoiler.
Also, the new 7 series body doesn't look too exciting. In that class, I would have to save that the S-Class looks the best followed by the A8 and then the new 7. The new 7 doesn't look as sporty as the one it replaces and what is up with the weird looking rear deck-lid!

I dont think the pics are giving it justice, My friend has saw one and he says it is so much more incredible in person... so I dont know?

[jdavis]

Hello All,

I have to agree with a more aggressive front spoiler and trim. Hopefully the next couple of years will result in boosting the current hp to 250+. As a MY2000 328i I'm constantly having to chase S4's. Does anyone know how to eke out 30 more ponies out of the 197hp powerplant? I'm considering a new exhaust, air filter and chip but that might give me 15hp or so. I just am having the damnedest time having to run with the new 330. For all you body style enthusiasts. Check out Hamann's site. Some really incredible front fascia's and skirts. Also, they have a shot of the Hartge 3 which has the M5 engine crammed in it.

[F20C]

The face-lift version doesn't look that bad in my mind. You can see face-lift sedan on the roads already.

[Ultimateone]

Originally posted by jdavis
Hello All,

I'm considering a new exhaust, air filter and chip but that might give me 15hp or so.

Definitely do all those mods, you should be able to at least get over 15hp.

[gang$tarr]

i hate how the facelifts look... i'll keep my '00 thanks

[XZLR8]

I've seen a few of the new '02 3-series sedans on the lots and I'm not that impressed with the new front end. Maybe it will grow on me.... but then again, should a $40K car HAVE to grow on ya?

I have a '01 325Ci convertible. The very first thing I did was swap out the amber turnlights for clear lens ones. Much improved. I think the new '02 coupes & convertibles are coming with the clear lens' now as part of the sport package.

[ST325i]

Do you think the owners of the older body style (E36) were thinking the same when they saw the E46? I honestly didn't like the E46 when i first saw it, but now i'm a proud owner of an 01 325. Given time, we will come to appreciate what the BMW designers have come up with.

[gang$tarr]

Yeah i actually kinda like it now (contrary to my post above )

i hated how the circle lights looked, that weren't connected... maybe those are only on the 318 compact, or whatever it's called

[ultimatedriver7]

Hey ya'll:

Does anyone know of pics showing the new facelifted sedans with sport package bodywork from the factory? This typically includes the front bumper, wheels, tires, sideskirts, and rear bumper. The sport package on my car as well as that on the '01 sedans is dropdead gorgeous. Hopefully it will spice up a rather bland looking new facia on the new 3 sedan. As for the rear end of these new sedans, I think it looks great.

Here is one pic: http://www.bmwstore.com/new_vehicles...cles/11065.jpg

As a sidenote, the SMG will never be offered in the standard 3 series for marketing reasons (If you want it you have to cough up the dough for an M3)

Thanks

[jinushaun]

Originally posted by ultimatedriver7
As a sidenote, the SMG will never be offered in the standard 3 series for marketing reasons (If you want it you have to cough up the dough for an M3)

...In the States.

I've talked with BMW and they reiterated that only the M3 will get SMG in the US. As far as I know, SMG will be offered on the standard 3s in the UK. (The best car magazines are from the UK).