Latest Z4 takes roadster experience to next level
Next month’s Paris Motor Show is set to feature a whole host of new and exciting machines, not least of which will be the new BMW Z4 roadster.
Roadsters have played an important role in BMW’s history and since the birth of the first example, the famous BMW 328, all BMW roadsters have shared common proportions and design principles — long bonnet; low, set-back driving position, long wheelbase and short overhangs.
The new BMW Z4 is no different as it is said to share all those traditional principles, but BMW says this new machine takes the roadster experience to the next level with a focus on agility, dynamic performance and precise handling thanks to the high rigidity of the body structure and chassis mountings, the intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamic properties.
The car will debut in Paris and the worldwide market introduction will then commence in March 2019.
As it should, the new Z4 has a low-slung, sporty, compact appearance when viewed from any angle. It is longer, wider and higher than its predecessor.
The shortening of the wheelbase by 26mm to 2,470mm serves to sharpen agility.
Brief details of the new roadster tell us there is a choice of one non-metallic and eight metallic shades for the car’s exterior paintwork. The soft-top roof comes in Black as standard and Anthracite with silver effect as an option. It is electrically operated and can be opened or closed in the space of 10 seconds, even while travelling at speeds up to 31mph.
There will be two trim levels for the BMW Z4 in Ireland, Sport and M Sport in addition to the M Performance model. The Sport model features design elements in High-gloss Black on the front crossbar and the rear apron’s insert, along with 18-inch light-alloy wheels.
We are told that both driver and passenger settle into model-specific sports seats with integral head restraints. The BMW Z4 is upholstered in Vernasca leather as standard on all models and comes in a choice of four colours (Black, Magma Red, Ivory White or Cognac).
Powering the new Z4 will be a choice of BMW’s latest turbocharged petrol engines. In the Z4 M40i there will be a straight-six unit with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology. Its standout features include a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, sharper turbocharger response and superior acceleration, and direct injection technology, which now works at increased maximum pressure of 350 bar. Drivers have a maximum output of 340bhp at their disposal, plus 500Nm of peak torque.
This car will sprint from zero to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a combined fuel consumption of 7.29l per 100km, equating to CO2 emissions of 165g/km.
The choice of engines for the new BMW Z4 is rounded off by a pair of new four-cylinder units. Both have a capacity of 2.0 litres and likewise set new standards in terms of power delivery, efficiency and emissions. The output of both engines has been increased by 13bhp over their predecessors.
The engine under the bonnet of the new BMW Z4 sDrive30i delivers its maximum output of 258hp, while peak torque of 400Nm is available. The result is a zero to 100km/h sprint time of 5.4 seconds. Combined fuel consumption of 5.9l / 100 km and CO2 emissions of 138g/km is proof of the model’s outstanding efficiency.
The maximum output of 197 bhp developed by the new BMW Z4 sDrive20i between 4,500 and 6,500rpm and peak torque propels the car to 100km/h from rest in 6.6 seconds. The new BMW Z4 sDrive20i burns an average of 5.9l / 100 km and produces CO2 emissions of 138g/km.
The car is available to order now.
