BMW 3 Series Compact (E46)
| Manufacturer | BMW |
|---|---|
| Production | 2000–2004 |
| Successor | BMW 1 Series |
| Class | Compact car |
| Body style | 3-door hatchback |
| Layout | FR layout |
| Engine | 1.6 L I4 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) 1.8 L I4 143 PS (105 kW; 141 hp) 2.5 L I6 192 PS (141 kW; 189 hp) 2.0 L I4 diesel 115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) 2.0 L I4 diesel 150 PS (110 kW; 150 hp) |
| Wheelbase | 2,725 mm (107.3 in) |
| Length | 4,260 mm (168 in) |
| Width | 1,750 mm (69 in) |
| Curb weight | 1,300 kg (2,900 lb)−1,405 kg (3,100 lb) |
The TI/Compact was redesigned in 2000 as part of the E46 line. Build and quality of finish was much-improved over that of the E36 Compact. Despite this, the E46 Compact was not as successful as its predecessor. The E46 Compact was never marketed in North America, leaving its sole direct competitor in the class, the latecomer W203 Mercedes-Benz CLC-Class, to be the lone choice in the segment. The Mercedes, like the E36 Compact, also never enjoyed popularity in North America.
The E46 Compact does not feature styling similar to the rest of E46 cars. Most notably, the headlight assembly on the Compact models differ greatly from either coupe, sedan/touring models.
The TI/Compact is mechanically identical to the E46-series saloon, estate, coupe and convertible - in a package eight inches shorter.
The steering was also sharpened, offering a quicker rack than any other 3 Series model
In 2004, the TI/Compact was effectively replaced by the BMW 1 Series however the 1-Series did not appear in North America until 2008.
Read more about this topic: BMW Compact
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