We never know exactly what we’re going to get when BMW introduces a new product. Most agree that the new 7-series is a visual improvement over the vehicle it replaces, but then there are all-new vehicles like the X6 that we’re still trying to figure out, both from an aesthetic and functional point of view. We do, however, know exactly what a roadster is for and are often swayed by powerful turbocharged engines, so this new Z4—with its updated styling, optional turbos, and retractable hardtop—is likely to win us over.
Alphanumerics Gone Wild!
We’d love to get right into the details, but first a little bit of housekeeping is in order. About a year ago, the BMW X6 brought with it a new way of identifying the company’s all-wheel-drive models. The X6 xDrive35i and xDrive50i associated a brand, xDrive, with BMW’s all-wheel-drive systems. Now that clumsy nomenclature style is being spread to the rear-drivers, with the Z4—in sDrive30i and sDrive35i forms—being the first to be saddled with the longer name. We’re not sure how they arrived at sDrive and also wonder what confusion this was meant to clear up. (Were too many people asking dealers for the all-wheel-drive Z4?) In any event, get used to seeing three times as many characters tacked onto future Bimmers.
As the names suggest, the new Z4 models will be powered by two familiar 3.0-liter inline-six BMW powerplants. The sDrive30i will pack the naturally aspirated version found in the current Z4 and making 255 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque, while the sDrive35i adds twin turbochargers to produce an even 300 hp and 300 lb-ft. Both will come standard with a six-speed manual, and they carry quoted 0-to-60-mph times of 5.6 and 5.1 seconds, respectively. Opting for a six-speed automatic in the 30i slows the time down a bit, to 6.0. The optional transmission for the 35i is a version of the M DCT gearbox introduced in the latest M3, a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (or, as our German friends like to call it, a Doppelkupplungsgetriebe). Not only will the high-tech cogswapper lower 0–60 times—the quoted time is 5.0 seconds—but BMW also expects it to lower fuel consumption compared to the standard six-speed manual.
A Harder Top and a Newer Look
Aside from the new option of turbos, the roadster gets new styling that’s partly the result of the use of a two-piece aluminum retractable hardtop. While not a huge departure from the current styling, the stylish new look has nicely sculpted details and what may be the largest kidney grille in BMW’s current lineup. We’re glad to see a less-stubby trunk, which was lengthened in order to fit the two roof panels. This affords a large-ish trunk (6.4 cubic feet with the top down, 10.9 with it up) that BMW claims can fit four crates of large bottles—perfect for those operating a Z4-based Biergarten. Glass area and all-around visibility are increased, as well.
The automatic top deploys and stows in 20 seconds to reveal an interior available with BMW’s Sun Reflective leather, which keeps seats, interior panels, and the steering wheel cool to the touch in the face of those mean ultraviolet rays. An extended leather option for the 35i covers the instrument panel, sun visors, and passenger door handle with cowhide as well.
Bigger Inside and Out
The Z4 grows in its second generation, with a 5.8-inch increase in length, to go along with fractional increases in width and wheelbase. BMW claims ingress and egress are now easier as a result of a one-inch-wider door opening. Head and shoulder room are also improved, good news for our larger staffers. As is to be expected with the move from a soft to a hardtop, weight is also increased—about 200 pounds on comparable models.
A raft of electronic driver aids is on tap for the new Z4. Stability control is standard. A newly optional adaptive M suspension with electronic damping is included on the Sport package and adjusts damper compression and rebound at all four corners. Also new is BMW’s Dynamic Drive Control system. By choosing either Normal, Sport, or Sport + mode, the driver can control throttle response, the power steering system, and stability-control thresholds. The system also works with the adaptive M suspension and either of the automatic transmissions on vehicles so equipped.
Of course, it wouldn’t be a new or refreshed BMW model without iDrive. Included with the optional navigation system, the latest—and much easier to use—version of the human-machine interface is paired with an 8.8-inch display that pops out of the top of the dash, just like the system in the current Z4.
Z4 production has been moved to BMW’s Regensburg, Germany, plant now that the South Carolina facility has moved to building only the X5 and X6 platformmates. The Z4 will first be shown at the 2009 Detroit show, which begins on January 11.
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