2001 BMW 3 Series Compact (E46, facelift 2001) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) ranges between 1300 kg (2866 lbs) and 1470 kg (3241 lbs), depending on the specific model and equipment. The maximum permissible weight varies between 1800 kg (3968 lbs) and 1905 kg (4199 lbs). These weight figures reflect the car's balance of lightweight construction and safety features, contributing to its dynamic driving characteristics and fuel efficiency.

The luggage capacity of the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) is 310 liters (10.9 cubic feet) with the rear seats upright, providing practical cargo space for daily use. When the rear seats are folded down, the luggage space expands significantly to 1100 liters (38.8 cubic feet), allowing for the transportation of larger items or increased load capacity, which is especially useful for trips or hauling bulkier cargo.

The BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) comes with rim sizes of 6.5J x 15, 6.5J x 16, and 7J x 16. Corresponding tire sizes include 195/65 R15 and 205/55 R16. These wheel and tire options influence handling characteristics, ride comfort, and aesthetics, allowing owners to select configurations that suit their preferences for sportiness or comfort.

Yes, the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) fits comfortably within a standard garage. With a length of 4262 mm (167.7 inches) and a width of 1751 mm (68.9 inches), it is compact enough to fit into most residential garages, which typically accommodate vehicles up to around 5 meters (16.4 feet) in length and 2.5 meters (8.2 feet) in width. The car's modest height of 1408 mm (55.4 inches) also ensures ample clearance, facilitating easy parking and maneuverability.

Compared to the predecessor BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 pre-facelift, produced 1998–2001), the facelift 2001 model maintains similar basic dimensions but features subtle styling changes that might impact perceived size. The length, width, and height remain close to the original, around 4260 mm in length, 1750 mm in width, and approximately 1400 mm in height. The facelift improved aerodynamics and aesthetics without major dimensional increases, preserving the car's compact and agile character while enhancing visual appeal and functionality.

In comparison to similar compact hatchbacks of its era, such as the Audi A3 (first generation) and the Volkswagen Golf Mk4, the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) sits competitively in size. Its length of 4262 mm (167.7 inches) is slightly longer than the Golf Mk4 (about 4170 mm or 164.2 inches) and lines up closely with the Audi A3's 4-door hatchback variant (approximately 4210 mm or 165.7 inches). The width at 1751 mm (68.9 inches) is also comparable or slightly wider than its competitors. This positioning showcases BMW's approach to offering a premium compact hatchback with a balance of sporty dynamics and practical dimensions.

The BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) offers a compact yet well-designed interior space aimed at delivering comfort and driver-focused ergonomics. The hatchback layout provides reasonable headroom and legroom for front and rear passengers, though rear legroom is more limited compared to the sedan version. Materials and build quality in this generation are premium for the class, with attention to detail and supportive seats that enhance driver and passenger comfort on both short and long journeys.

The 2001 facelift for the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46) brought several updates both cosmetic and functional. Exterior changes included revised front and rear bumpers, updated headlights with clearer glass and new styling, and slightly refreshed taillight designs. Interior upgrades focused on improved materials and refined details to boost perceived quality. Additionally, some mechanical tweaks improved suspension tuning and engine options, enhancing overall driving dynamics and efficiency while maintaining the core characteristics that made the E46 Compact popular among enthusiasts.

The fuel efficiency of the BMW 3 Series Compact (E46 facelift 2001) varies depending on engine choice, with petrol and diesel variants available. Typically, petrol models with inline-four engines deliver fuel consumption figures around 7 to 8 liters per 100 kilometers (29 to 34 miles per gallon), while diesel variants tend to be more economical, achieving about 5 to 6 liters per 100 kilometers (39 to 47 miles per gallon). Performance-wise, the range includes models delivering from approximately 115 hp up to over 170 hp in sportier trims, producing lively acceleration and engaging driving dynamics consistent with BMW's sporty hatchback reputation.