BMW recently released photographs of the revised 2002 3-series. The aesthetic changes can certainly be classified as a "minor freshening", with subtle changes to the front headlights, kidney-grille, hood, fog lights, and rear taillights.

As you can see from the above comparison, the kidney grille on the 2002 gets a slightly sharper corner on the top-outer portion. This sharp angle marks the beginning of the revised hood line indentation, which also appears more modern-looking. The headlight lens covers also take on a different shape.

In what appears to be a popular trend, the 3-series also benefits from revised taillights. The turning indicator moves to the middle position. (Has anyone noticed the same change on the new Honda Accord?) It is unclear whether the U.S. model will retain the clear turn-signal lens. I suspect it will.