2010 BMW Z4 Officially Unleashed with Video

by Clinton Deacon

December 14, 2008 11:03 AM

Filed Under: BMW , German

BMW has provided automotive fans with an early Christmas present with the release of the first official details and images of the all-new 2010 BMW Z4 Roadster. Despite bleak economic times, BMW will be looking to continue the long term success of its roadster series.



At launch the Z4 will be offered with three different engine options. The top of the line Z4 sDrive35i features the award winning 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged engine that has already been successfully deployed in the 135i and 335i. It pumps out 306hp (228Kw) and 400Nm of torque (295lb-ft) and enables the roadster to launch from 0-62mph in just 5.2 seconds. For those consumers looking to take the optional Double Clutch Transmission system, an extra 0.1 seconds is wiped off this acceleration figure.



The entry level Z4 sDrive23i gets a I6 powerplant with a displacement of 2,497cc, power output lies at 204hp (152 kW) and 250Nm(184lb-ft) of torque. The final engine option is the sDrive30i with a 258hp(192 kW) 3-liter engine with 210Nm(228lb-ft) of torque. All three powerplants abide by the strict EU5 emissions standard taking the BMW roadster into the next decade with much to be excited about.



The new 2010 model features a retractable hard-top, the first time we have seen this in a BMW Z series model. Raised or lowered in 20 seconds, the hard-top weighs much more than the soft-top version offered in previous model series which is sure to hinder the performance.



To counter this effect, the Bavarian automaker has introduced a host of new technologies, starting with the Adaptive M Suspension system. The ride height can be raised or lowered by up to 10mm with a choice of three different configurations. Additionally, the driving experience is enhanced with the Drive Dynamic Control function (another first for the Z series) which dynamically alters both the steering and throttle responses.



The world debut is scheduled for the Detroit Auto Show next month.

* U.K. Specs specified in this article

Press Release (Click to expand)

More power, more efficiency, & more comfort. Two all-new BMW Z4 Roadster models raise the standard for style and dynamic performance.

Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debuts at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11.

Return of a Classic

The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster.

The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster.

To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times.

Comprehensive use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies serves to provide an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Featuring Dynamic Drive Control as standard, the BMW Z4 enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Design: the modern look of a classic roadster.

The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle.

The front view features a large, upright BMW kidney grille, wide air intake and the dual round headlights, typical of the BMW brand. All surfaces and lines, including the character lines on the hood, strive towards an imaginary target point on the road ahead.

The side view is dominated by the dynamic flow of the car’s shoulder line connecting the front and rear wheel arches and accentuating the stretched, athletic look of the Roadster. The horizontal orientation of the car’s lines and surfaces at the rear, in turn, emphasizes the sheer width of the new BMW Z4. Further characteristics are the extra-large hood extending far over the wheel arches, the black A-pillars, the gills at the side with their integrated LED direction indicators, as well as the slender rear fixtures with three-dimensional LED-fed rows of light.

Stylish, sophisticated, and typical of a genuine roadster: the interior.

For harmonious unison of the exterior and interior so important in an open-air car, the shoulder line is reflected by the door panels with their unique configuration and flow from front to rear.

The contoured surface to the left and right of the steering wheel incorporates the controls for the lights and air conditioning. These elements are available trimmed in Satin Silver matte, Brushed Aluminum, and Ash Grain Wood, the respective color and trim variant also being used on the center console and door handle.

The standard seats with integrated headrests on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i feature high-quality Kansas leather in a choice of three colors. A fourth choice, Ivory White Nappa leather, is also available as part of the Exclusive Ivory White Leather Package, which includes sport seats and Anthracite wood trim.

An Extended Leather option (Z4 sDrive35i only) adds leather on the upper section of the instrument panel, the doorsills, the sun visors in Black leather as well as the leather-finish door closing handles in upholstery color on the passenger’s side.

The entire range of paintwork colors available on the new BMW Z4 is made up of no less than nine color tones including Orion Silver metallic exclusive to the new Roadster.

Cycling in 20 seconds: the retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the ­characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor.

This innovative roof system offers outstanding acoustic and aerodynamic qualities and sets a new standard in the Z4’s segment. Large windows and the high-quality roof lining give the hardtop a light look. Driver and passenger enjoy a bright ambience, generous space, and optimum visibility. Compared with the former model, the side windows are 40% larger, the see-through area in the rear window 52% larger, and all-round visibility increased14% over the previous generation.

The glass rear window in the hardtop is equipped with an electric defroster and the four side windows of the new BMW Z4 may be lowered individually. The higher roofline and larger door openings allow easier and more convenient access with the roof closed.

The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects.

Flexible storage with optional through-loading.

The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed.

The moveable partition in the new BMW Z4 is unique in the premium roadster segment, and offers enough luggage space with the hardtop open for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase.

Using the optional through-loading system to the passenger compartment, the Z4 is able to accommodate a 46-inch full-size golf bag. When the roof is closed the luggage compartment easily accommodates up to four crates of large bottles or – when using the through-loading system – two 46-inch golf bags.

Various other storage compartments are designed into the interior. The new Z4 offers storage trays in the center console, a 10-liter glove box, hinged compartments in the doors, and additional space behind the seats.

Included with the Cold Weather Package is a storage package that provides an even wider range of storage and loading functions, with fastening nets on the rear panels of the seats and in the passenger’s footwell, lashing belts in the luggage compartment, as well as a storage box in the bulkhead leading to the luggage compartment.

Optional through-loading system together with a transport bag ensures even greater versatility, allowing the user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring up to 67" in length.

A successful concept with a great tradition: inline-6 engines in the BMW Roadster.

Elegant roadster lines, the BMW kidney grille, and a inline-6 engine form a combination that, in 1934, made the BMW 315/1 an unprecedented success both on the road and in motorsport. That combination has been retained to this day in the BMW Z4.

The new Z4 is therefore being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. These unique engines exhibit refinement and fast-revving response typical of a BMW six-cylinder, offering an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel efficiency in the premium roadster segment thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. The individual versions of the new BMW Z4 come with on-demand management and control of the car’s accessory drives, a variable oil pump, intelligent lightweight technology, and optimized aerodynamics.

BMW Z4 sDrive35i: performance with efficiency thanks to Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection.

The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase.

The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm.

Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

High Precision Injection is a key element in the Z4’s efficient performance. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber offers a cooling effect allowing a higher compression ratio and optimized combustion efficiency. This second generation of direct gasoline injection developed by BMW ensures significant benefits in fuel efficiency without restricting the dynamic qualities of the engine.

The 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine: powerful and light thanks to magnesium.

Offering spontaneous power and performance, excellent motoring refinement and outstanding efficiency, the 6-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i again offers the very best in its segment. Weighing just 355 lb thanks to its composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, cylinder head cover made of a special synthetic material and lightweight camshafts with aluminum VANOS control unit, is exceptionally light.

While BMW’s VALVETRONIC engine management controls valve stroke on the intake valves, double-VANOS varies the angle of the intake and outlet valves in an infinite process. This allows particularly efficient use of fuel, providing a “beefy” torque curve and giving the engine instant response.

The engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i develops maximum output of 255 hp from 3.0 liters capacity at an engine speed of 6,600 rpm. Maximum torque of 220 lb-ft, in turn, comes at just 2,600 rpm.

With this kind of power, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (with optional sport automatic in 6.0 seconds). Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

6-speed transmission with short gearshift travel featured as standard.

All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Developed specifically for BMW’s new Roadster, the various transmission options are particularly sporting in their character. Indeed, this is borne out in particular by extremely short gearshift travel much shorter than on all other current BMW models with a manual gearshift.

Optional: 7-speed sport automatic with double clutch and 6-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters.

As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i with its seven-speed sport automatic accelerates to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds, while fuel consumption is expected to outperform the fuel economy on the same model with a manual gearbox.

Sport automatic gives the driver the choice of either automatic (Program D) or manual gear selection. If desired, the driver may shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel.

The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. Indeed, the characteristics of the car are attributable to the direct connection linking the transmission to the engine, based on modern torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper, avoiding unnecessary slip and therefore helping to eliminate any loss of power and performance. Even the slightest movement of the gas pedal, therefore, is converted spontaneously into a quick response with gearshift times reduced to a minimum.

The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Sophisticated suspension technology, high-performance ­lightweight brakes.

Rear-wheel drive, near perfect weight distribution, the long wheelbase and the low center of gravity on the roadster create ideal conditions for supreme agility.

Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car.

Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver.

The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the center console.

Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tires as well as a Tire Pressure Monitor.

BMW’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serves not only to activate the ABS brakes and ensure stability on slippery surfaces by activating the brakes or reducing engine power, but also comprises other functions such as Brake Drying and Brake Standby as well as a Start-Off Assistant. Acting in a similar way to a mechanical limited slip differential, DSC electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a limited slip differential for stronger acceleration in turns.

Activating Dynamic Traction Control at the touch of a button, the driver is able to raise the response thresholds for intervention by the DSC, thus enjoying the option, for example, to set off on loose snow with the drive wheels slightly spinning. And when desired, the driver is also able to deactivate DSC altogether (ABS remains active).

Adaptive M Suspension featuring Electronic Damping Control (EDC).

The agility of the BMW Roadster may be further enhanced by ordering the optional Sport Package featuring Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control. A central control unit varies the “compression” and “rebound” stages on the four twin-sleeve gas pressure dampers to provide optimum response at all times. The response time is so fast that a signal coming from a front wheel crossing a hole in the road reaches and re-adjusts the rear dampers even before the rear wheels reach the same uneven road surface.

Comfort and sportiness in one: Dynamic Drive Control.

Dynamic Drive Control allows the driver of the new Z4 to choose the drive characteristics of the car. In addition to changing damper forces on the Adaptive M Suspension, DDC also conditions the responses of the gas pedal, the power steering, and the response thresholds of Dynamic Stability Control. And if the car is fitted with either sport automatic transmission, the adaptive gearshift logarithms are adjusted.

The driver operates Dynamic Drive Control via a button on the center console next to the gear selector. By pressing the button, s/he is able to choose from the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, thus activating a pre-configured, perfectly balanced set-up. The SPORT mode, for example, offers more-direct steering behavior and a more-direct response to the gas pedal. The SPORT+ mode, in turn, serves additionally to activate the Dynamic Traction Control mode of DSC, intentionally allowing slight wheelspin and thus enabling the driver to take a bend in a controlled drift.

Extra space, more safety.

The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3".

Apart from all-round visibility, the interior offers greater headroom (+0.20"), extra shoulder room (+0.79") and more elbow freedom (+1.69"). The door opening, increased in size by 1.02", allows even more convenient access with the roof closed.

The extremely stiff bodyshell, lightweight construction and near 50/50 weight distribution enhance both the safety and agility of the new BMW Z4. High load-resistant subframes, optimum use of crush zones, the extremely stiff passenger cell and highly efficient restraint systems ensure outstanding accident safety. Frontal and head/thorax airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the sensor-controlled electronic safety system as a function of the type and severity of a collision. The head/thorax airbags are integrated on the outside of the seat backrests and inflate over a large surface in the event of a collision from the side.

Making its premiere in the BMW Roadster: the latest generation of iDrive.

The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4 the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

The system itself is made up of a Controller on the center console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions.

Pressing the direct selection buttons on the newly configured Controller, the user is able to spontaneously change to the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The range of direct selection buttons has now been rounded off by the three MENU, BACK and OPTION command buttons, and programmable favorite buttons in the instrument panel allow the user to save and directly select radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, and other menu items available directly through iDrive.

Measuring 8.8 inches in size, the high-resolution Control Display with its resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics or pages from the internet. A picture of the Controller shown in the Control Display gives the driver greater and clearer orientation in choosing the next step in the operating process.

Using the navigation system is even easier thanks to iDrive. Full-screen map presentation, for example, offers an incomparably detailed overview of the region in which the driver is currently traveling. As an alternative the Control Display also offers an assistance window presenting further highlights and maps independent of the main map.

With navigation data saved on an 80 GB hard disc installed in the car, access times are faster than before. And at the same time the hard disc may also be used as a 15 GB music archive.

Roadster-specific climate comfort and leather with Sun Reflective Technology.

The new BMW Z4 is equipped as standard with air conditioning and seven blower stages. Optional automatic climate control allows separate temperature selection on the driver’s and passenger’s side, individual, automatic temperature control in five stages of intensity, and manual adjustment of air stratification. With the roof open, automatic climate control includes convertible mode.

Like BMW’s Convertibles, the leather in the new Roadster incorporates Sun Reflective Technology. A special, highly innovative type of leather on the seats, interior panels, and steering wheel that significantly reduces the heat effect of bright sunshine: Treatment of the leather in Sun Reflective Technology serves to integrate special color pigments into the material to reflect infrared radiation in the sunlight.

Top-end audio and communication systems.

The audio systems available in the new BMW Z4 set standards in the segment in every respect.

The CD player fitted as regular series equipment also serves to play music files in the MP3 format. The available premium hi-fi system comes with up to 14 loudspeakers and two additional subwoofers for an intense and precise experience in sound, with amplifier output of up to 650 watts. A standard AUX-In port is provided, allowing the integration of various external MP3 player. A 6-disc CD/DVD changer in the glove compartment is also available.

A Bluetooth interface is available in conjunction with optional BMW Assist to offer greater safety and convenience for making telephone calls while driving. To fully integrate the latest smartphones in the car, the new BMW Z4 is also available with a smart phone integration option.

New production plant: BMW Roadster coming from Regensburg.

The new BMW Z4 is built at BMW Plant Regensburg alongside the 3 Series and the BMW 1 Series. This is because BMW Plant Spartanburg, where the former model was built, is concentrating from now on entirely on the production of BMW’s X models.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM: Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind

The 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be ordered separately as a stand-alone option.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM includes:

The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items.

BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry’s most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice.

BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty: All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW’s excellent Limited Warranty, which includes:

 

New-vehicle warranty – four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle. Rust-perforation warranty – 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage.

 

BMW AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.

 

The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW.

TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.

BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times , as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system (if so equipped) and the customer’s Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows those vehicles equipped with both the BMW Navigation and BMW Assist system to gain online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.

Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit www.bmwassist.com.

Performance with a conscience

BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission control in production; environmentally responsible selection of materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.

 

Press Release

More power, more efficiency, & more comfort. Two all-new BMW Z4 Roadster models raise the standard for style and dynamic performance.

Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debuts at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11.

Return of a Classic

The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster.

The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster.

To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times.

Comprehensive use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies serves to provide an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Featuring Dynamic Drive Control as standard, the BMW Z4 enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Design: the modern look of a classic roadster.

The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle.

The front view features a large, upright BMW kidney grille, wide air intake and the dual round headlights, typical of the BMW brand. All surfaces and lines, including the character lines on the hood, strive towards an imaginary target point on the road ahead.

The side view is dominated by the dynamic flow of the car’s shoulder line connecting the front and rear wheel arches and accentuating the stretched, athletic look of the Roadster. The horizontal orientation of the car’s lines and surfaces at the rear, in turn, emphasizes the sheer width of the new BMW Z4. Further characteristics are the extra-large hood extending far over the wheel arches, the black A-pillars, the gills at the side with their integrated LED direction indicators, as well as the slender rear fixtures with three-dimensional LED-fed rows of light.

Stylish, sophisticated, and typical of a genuine roadster: the interior.

For harmonious unison of the exterior and interior so important in an open-air car, the shoulder line is reflected by the door panels with their unique configuration and flow from front to rear.

The contoured surface to the left and right of the steering wheel incorporates the controls for the lights and air conditioning. These elements are available trimmed in Satin Silver matte, Brushed Aluminum, and Ash Grain Wood, the respective color and trim variant also being used on the center console and door handle.

The standard seats with integrated headrests on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i feature high-quality Kansas leather in a choice of three colors. A fourth choice, Ivory White Nappa leather, is also available as part of the Exclusive Ivory White Leather Package, which includes sport seats and Anthracite wood trim.

An Extended Leather option (Z4 sDrive35i only) adds leather on the upper section of the instrument panel, the doorsills, the sun visors in Black leather as well as the leather-finish door closing handles in upholstery color on the passenger’s side.

The entire range of paintwork colors available on the new BMW Z4 is made up of no less than nine color tones including Orion Silver metallic exclusive to the new Roadster.

Cycling in 20 seconds: the retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the ­characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor.

This innovative roof system offers outstanding acoustic and aerodynamic qualities and sets a new standard in the Z4’s segment. Large windows and the high-quality roof lining give the hardtop a light look. Driver and passenger enjoy a bright ambience, generous space, and optimum visibility. Compared with the former model, the side windows are 40% larger, the see-through area in the rear window 52% larger, and all-round visibility increased14% over the previous generation.

The glass rear window in the hardtop is equipped with an electric defroster and the four side windows of the new BMW Z4 may be lowered individually. The higher roofline and larger door openings allow easier and more convenient access with the roof closed.

The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects.

Flexible storage with optional through-loading.

The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed.

The moveable partition in the new BMW Z4 is unique in the premium roadster segment, and offers enough luggage space with the hardtop open for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase.

Using the optional through-loading system to the passenger compartment, the Z4 is able to accommodate a 46-inch full-size golf bag. When the roof is closed the luggage compartment easily accommodates up to four crates of large bottles or – when using the through-loading system – two 46-inch golf bags.

Various other storage compartments are designed into the interior. The new Z4 offers storage trays in the center console, a 10-liter glove box, hinged compartments in the doors, and additional space behind the seats.

Included with the Cold Weather Package is a storage package that provides an even wider range of storage and loading functions, with fastening nets on the rear panels of the seats and in the passenger’s footwell, lashing belts in the luggage compartment, as well as a storage box in the bulkhead leading to the luggage compartment.

Optional through-loading system together with a transport bag ensures even greater versatility, allowing the user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring up to 67" in length.

A successful concept with a great tradition: inline-6 engines in the BMW Roadster.

Elegant roadster lines, the BMW kidney grille, and a inline-6 engine form a combination that, in 1934, made the BMW 315/1 an unprecedented success both on the road and in motorsport. That combination has been retained to this day in the BMW Z4.

The new Z4 is therefore being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. These unique engines exhibit refinement and fast-revving response typical of a BMW six-cylinder, offering an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel efficiency in the premium roadster segment thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. The individual versions of the new BMW Z4 come with on-demand management and control of the car’s accessory drives, a variable oil pump, intelligent lightweight technology, and optimized aerodynamics.

BMW Z4 sDrive35i: performance with efficiency thanks to Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection.

The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase.

The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm.

Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

High Precision Injection is a key element in the Z4’s efficient performance. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber offers a cooling effect allowing a higher compression ratio and optimized combustion efficiency. This second generation of direct gasoline injection developed by BMW ensures significant benefits in fuel efficiency without restricting the dynamic qualities of the engine.

The 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine: powerful and light thanks to magnesium.

Offering spontaneous power and performance, excellent motoring refinement and outstanding efficiency, the 6-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i again offers the very best in its segment. Weighing just 355 lb thanks to its composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, cylinder head cover made of a special synthetic material and lightweight camshafts with aluminum VANOS control unit, is exceptionally light.

While BMW’s VALVETRONIC engine management controls valve stroke on the intake valves, double-VANOS varies the angle of the intake and outlet valves in an infinite process. This allows particularly efficient use of fuel, providing a “beefy” torque curve and giving the engine instant response.

The engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i develops maximum output of 255 hp from 3.0 liters capacity at an engine speed of 6,600 rpm. Maximum torque of 220 lb-ft, in turn, comes at just 2,600 rpm.

With this kind of power, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (with optional sport automatic in 6.0 seconds). Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

6-speed transmission with short gearshift travel featured as standard.

All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Developed specifically for BMW’s new Roadster, the various transmission options are particularly sporting in their character. Indeed, this is borne out in particular by extremely short gearshift travel much shorter than on all other current BMW models with a manual gearshift.

Optional: 7-speed sport automatic with double clutch and 6-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters.

As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i with its seven-speed sport automatic accelerates to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds, while fuel consumption is expected to outperform the fuel economy on the same model with a manual gearbox.

Sport automatic gives the driver the choice of either automatic (Program D) or manual gear selection. If desired, the driver may shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel.

The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. Indeed, the characteristics of the car are attributable to the direct connection linking the transmission to the engine, based on modern torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper, avoiding unnecessary slip and therefore helping to eliminate any loss of power and performance. Even the slightest movement of the gas pedal, therefore, is converted spontaneously into a quick response with gearshift times reduced to a minimum.

The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Sophisticated suspension technology, high-performance ­lightweight brakes.

Rear-wheel drive, near perfect weight distribution, the long wheelbase and the low center of gravity on the roadster create ideal conditions for supreme agility.

Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car.

Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver.

The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the center console.

Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tires as well as a Tire Pressure Monitor.

BMW’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serves not only to activate the ABS brakes and ensure stability on slippery surfaces by activating the brakes or reducing engine power, but also comprises other functions such as Brake Drying and Brake Standby as well as a Start-Off Assistant. Acting in a similar way to a mechanical limited slip differential, DSC electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a limited slip differential for stronger acceleration in turns.

Activating Dynamic Traction Control at the touch of a button, the driver is able to raise the response thresholds for intervention by the DSC, thus enjoying the option, for example, to set off on loose snow with the drive wheels slightly spinning. And when desired, the driver is also able to deactivate DSC altogether (ABS remains active).

Adaptive M Suspension featuring Electronic Damping Control (EDC).

The agility of the BMW Roadster may be further enhanced by ordering the optional Sport Package featuring Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control. A central control unit varies the “compression” and “rebound” stages on the four twin-sleeve gas pressure dampers to provide optimum response at all times. The response time is so fast that a signal coming from a front wheel crossing a hole in the road reaches and re-adjusts the rear dampers even before the rear wheels reach the same uneven road surface.

Comfort and sportiness in one: Dynamic Drive Control.

Dynamic Drive Control allows the driver of the new Z4 to choose the drive characteristics of the car. In addition to changing damper forces on the Adaptive M Suspension, DDC also conditions the responses of the gas pedal, the power steering, and the response thresholds of Dynamic Stability Control. And if the car is fitted with either sport automatic transmission, the adaptive gearshift logarithms are adjusted.

The driver operates Dynamic Drive Control via a button on the center console next to the gear selector. By pressing the button, s/he is able to choose from the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, thus activating a pre-configured, perfectly balanced set-up. The SPORT mode, for example, offers more-direct steering behavior and a more-direct response to the gas pedal. The SPORT+ mode, in turn, serves additionally to activate the Dynamic Traction Control mode of DSC, intentionally allowing slight wheelspin and thus enabling the driver to take a bend in a controlled drift.

Extra space, more safety.

The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3".

Apart from all-round visibility, the interior offers greater headroom (+0.20"), extra shoulder room (+0.79") and more elbow freedom (+1.69"). The door opening, increased in size by 1.02", allows even more convenient access with the roof closed.

The extremely stiff bodyshell, lightweight construction and near 50/50 weight distribution enhance both the safety and agility of the new BMW Z4. High load-resistant subframes, optimum use of crush zones, the extremely stiff passenger cell and highly efficient restraint systems ensure outstanding accident safety. Frontal and head/thorax airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the sensor-controlled electronic safety system as a function of the type and severity of a collision. The head/thorax airbags are integrated on the outside of the seat backrests and inflate over a large surface in the event of a collision from the side.

Making its premiere in the BMW Roadster: the latest generation of iDrive.

The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4 the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

The system itself is made up of a Controller on the center console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions.

Pressing the direct selection buttons on the newly configured Controller, the user is able to spontaneously change to the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The range of direct selection buttons has now been rounded off by the three MENU, BACK and OPTION command buttons, and programmable favorite buttons in the instrument panel allow the user to save and directly select radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, and other menu items available directly through iDrive.

Measuring 8.8 inches in size, the high-resolution Control Display with its resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics or pages from the internet. A picture of the Controller shown in the Control Display gives the driver greater and clearer orientation in choosing the next step in the operating process.

Using the navigation system is even easier thanks to iDrive. Full-screen map presentation, for example, offers an incomparably detailed overview of the region in which the driver is currently traveling. As an alternative the Control Display also offers an assistance window presenting further highlights and maps independent of the main map.

With navigation data saved on an 80 GB hard disc installed in the car, access times are faster than before. And at the same time the hard disc may also be used as a 15 GB music archive.

Roadster-specific climate comfort and leather with Sun Reflective Technology.

The new BMW Z4 is equipped as standard with air conditioning and seven blower stages. Optional automatic climate control allows separate temperature selection on the driver’s and passenger’s side, individual, automatic temperature control in five stages of intensity, and manual adjustment of air stratification. With the roof open, automatic climate control includes convertible mode.

Like BMW’s Convertibles, the leather in the new Roadster incorporates Sun Reflective Technology. A special, highly innovative type of leather on the seats, interior panels, and steering wheel that significantly reduces the heat effect of bright sunshine: Treatment of the leather in Sun Reflective Technology serves to integrate special color pigments into the material to reflect infrared radiation in the sunlight.

Top-end audio and communication systems.

The audio systems available in the new BMW Z4 set standards in the segment in every respect.

The CD player fitted as regular series equipment also serves to play music files in the MP3 format. The available premium hi-fi system comes with up to 14 loudspeakers and two additional subwoofers for an intense and precise experience in sound, with amplifier output of up to 650 watts. A standard AUX-In port is provided, allowing the integration of various external MP3 player. A 6-disc CD/DVD changer in the glove compartment is also available.

A Bluetooth interface is available in conjunction with optional BMW Assist to offer greater safety and convenience for making telephone calls while driving. To fully integrate the latest smartphones in the car, the new BMW Z4 is also available with a smart phone integration option.

New production plant: BMW Roadster coming from Regensburg.

The new BMW Z4 is built at BMW Plant Regensburg alongside the 3 Series and the BMW 1 Series. This is because BMW Plant Spartanburg, where the former model was built, is concentrating from now on entirely on the production of BMW’s X models.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM: Providing owners with incredible value and peace of mind

The 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will feature BMW Ultimate ServiceTM, a suite of services that includes the BMW Maintenance Program (formerly called Full Maintenance), Roadside Assistance and the New Vehicle Limited Warranty. BMW AssistTM with TeleService is part of the optional Premium Package or can be ordered separately as a stand-alone option.

BMW Ultimate ServiceTM includes:

The BMW Maintenance Program is the only no-cost maintenance program in the industry that covers wear and tear items like brake pads and rotors for four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. BMW owners pay nothing for all scheduled inspections, oil changes, brake pads, wiper blade inserts and other wear-and-tear items.

BMW Roadside Assistance is one of the industry’s most comprehensive plans available. Not only is it no-charge for the first four years, but there is no mileage limit. BMW drivers enjoy the assurance of on-the-road help 24 hours a day, seven days a week, anywhere in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. This includes everything from flat tire changes, emergency gasoline and lock-out assistance, to towing, alternative transportation and even trip-interruption benefits. This service also includes valuable trip routing advice.

BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty: All 2009 BMW passenger vehicles are covered by BMW’s excellent Limited Warranty, which includes:

 

New-vehicle warranty – four-year/50,000-mile coverage of the vehicle. Rust-perforation warranty – 12-year/unlimited-mileage coverage.

 

BMW AssistTM provides the driver with services that enhance on-the-road security and convenience, for added peace of mind. The BMW Assist and Bluetooth® System is included in the Premium Package or available as a stand-alone option. BMW includes the Safety Plan for 4 years at no additional cost. BMW is the only manufacturer that offers this duration of service as other manufacturers only include the first year of service. The BMW Assist Safety Plan is a subscription based service that is subject to certain limitations.

 

The in-vehicle equipment for BMW Assist includes GPS technology and hands-free communication functions to deliver emergency and other services, accessed via buttons in the overhead or center console. The BMW Assist system transmits the location and vehicle information to the BMW Assist Response Center. A response specialist speaks with the vehicle occupants to coordinate dispatch, notify emergency contacts on file, and link BMW Roadside Assistance or emergency services as needed and/or requested. A severe accident automatically activates the Automatic Collision Notification function. The BMW Assist Safety Plan also includes Door Unlock and Stolen Vehicle Recovery services, which can save the owner time and money. New to BMW Assist is MyInfo, which allows users to send business listings and street addresses with associated phone numbers from the internet, directly to their BMW.

TeleService automatically notifies the BMW center when a vehicle will need service. A service advisor then proactively calls the customer to set up a convenient appointment and have the needed parts ready.

BMW Assist subscribers can also enroll in the BMW Assist Convenience Plan (available at an additional cost of $199 per year) to avail themselves of many BMW Assist concierge services, from finding the lowest fuel price or the best French restaurant in the area to information on flight arrival gates or times , as well as receive directions, and traffic and weather information. On 2007 and later models, a selected destination and its phone number can be sent directly to the BMW Navigation system (if so equipped) and the customer’s Bluetooth linked mobile phone, after a push of the Concierge menu option. New for 2009 is BMW Search, which allows those vehicles equipped with both the BMW Navigation and BMW Assist system to gain online access to the Google Maps database inside the vehicle to quickly find a desired business with just a key word. The Convenience Plan also includes Critical Calling, a service that can connect the driver to a requested party via a response specialist in case their mobile phone is not in the vehicle or its battery is discharged.

Lastly, the BMW Assist system includes Bluetooth hands-free phone connectivity with phonebook access and speech recognition for dialing by name or number via the steering wheel controls. Use of this feature requires a customer-provided compatible Bluetooth mobile phone. To learn more about BMW Assist, please visit www.bmwassist.com.

Performance with a conscience

BMW strives to produce its motor vehicles and other products with the utmost attention to environmental compatibility and protection. Integrated into the design and development of BMW automobiles are such criteria as resource efficiency and emission control in production; environmentally responsible selection of materials; recyclability during production and within the vehicle; elimination of CFCs and hazardous materials in production; and continuing research into environmentally friendly automotive power sources. Tangible results of these efforts include the recycling of bumper cladding into other vehicle components; water-based paint color coats and powder clear coats; near-future availability of hydrogen-powered models; and various design and engineering elements that help make BMWs easier to dismantle at the end of their service life.

 

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(62 photos) Comments Halleluja!

Reply | Report Abuse by Penner | December 14, 2008 11:09 AM Can't wait until the Z4 M with the 4.0L V8 from the M3 arrives.

Reply | Report Abuse by James2911 | December 14, 2008 11:26 AM Just look @ da face man,it looks as it had plastic sugery,..n by the facial look its not sure why it looks like this,...the back lights wants to be 6 series. Dont get me wrong,..i love Beemers,..but this 1 is just noway,.... Hope it dont turn ppl down,but who am i to say anything,..i will never dive a Z4,..

Reply | Report Abuse by arash84v | December 14, 2008 11:45 AM it front is like a 7 series and the rear is actually the same as 7 series. the wheels are lost compare to the huge size of the car, the hardtop leaves no space in the boot, and makes it much heavy...they have tried to keep the lovely long bonnet of the current z4 but the made a complete hash of it. im a BMW fan, but this one is disappointing.

Report Abuse by shaahinMT | December 14, 2008 1:53 PM I don't know what are you talking about, this Z4 is just great from every single angle!

Report Abuse by Pentium | December 15, 2008 3:20 AM sorry bmw FAIL again

most of BMW's designs grow on me but the z4 has never really done that

Reply | Report Abuse by BabyMilo | December 14, 2008 12:37 PM Now that's the way it should be done. Bravo BMW! The Z4 has evolved beyond my expectations. Instead of being distracted by any particular odd shape or detail, it now as a sort of continuous flow to it; like the legs of a sexy woman!

Reply | Report Abuse by RobERob | December 14, 2008 12:44 PM Love that deep exhaust note too!

Report Abuse by RobERob | December 14, 2008 12:47 PM Nice, i like it...

Reply | Report Abuse by Geefiasco | December 14, 2008 12:52 PM BMW doesn't make V6s, for the last time!

Reply | Report Abuse by motorjedi | December 14, 2008 1:09 PM Judging by the proportions of this thing they are planning on introducing it with an inline 8.

Report Abuse by v6s_stink | December 14, 2008 4:28 PM Why wait for the Z4M with the 4L V8? Keep the twin-turbo which is easily tuned to about 420hp and 580Nm, and install a quaife LSD. That's quite sure to give the Z4 M a run for it's money. Surely it might not be as nimble, but deffo much quicker.

Reply | Report Abuse by prophetofnoise | December 14, 2008 1:13 PM its looks like a sofa with small wheels!!! the current Z4 is much better looking, lighter, simpler and better.

Reply | Report Abuse by shaahinMT | December 14, 2008 1:44 PM Looks very nice, but from the side it looks kind of awkward. That hard-top will make it heavier though :(

Reply | Report Abuse by RussianMafia | December 14, 2008 1:49 PM Gross! Another one of Chris Bangle's hideous creations.

Look at the side profile, what the hell are those curved lines that extend from the hood to the door handle for?

I really, really hate the look of all the latest BMW's bar the M3. What a shame.

Reply | Report Abuse by 911fnatic | December 14, 2008 2:17 PM ok so i used to hate this one but now i gotta admit this thing looks nice!

Reply | Report Abuse by paula1105 | December 14, 2008 2:23 PM Admit that this one is better than old awkward z4. At least that one is not looking like a toy.

Reply | Report Abuse by mechamynd | December 14, 2008 2:41 PM Looks fantastic! Its great how they've melted the old shape, then pulled and stretched it out. So much road presence! Like I've said before, makes the competitors look fat and bloated! Just look at the lines along the side, you can see how much thought went into this design!

Good job

Reply | Report Abuse by TSLi | December 14, 2008 2:53 PM im sorry, i wasnt aware that most companies just design cars and dont put thought into them. you've really opened my eyes, thank you so much!

your thinking is just plain odd.

profile lines = design thought.

see i just thought "the lines along the side" on cars just appeared!

so thanks again for your insightful comments.

Report Abuse by effington | December 14, 2008 5:07 PM Mate, who are you trying to impress?

A lot of people think BMW make ugly cars. But why do you think their cars grow on people? I was merely stating my opinion that there is a method to BMW's madness. How all those extravagant lines and 'flame-surfacing' all in all make a stunning looking vehicle.

Ahh, but you feel its appropriate to come onto this thread and without even commenting on how the car looks, decide to post an answer to the question nobody asked. You my friend need a life.

Report Abuse by TSLi | December 14, 2008 5:52 PM a fair percentage of the reason bmws grow on people is down to their excellent equipment but most of driving performance. this is fair enough, but as a designer i dont feel a car should be considered a decent looking car because it drives well. it should be able to prove its aesthetic merits upon first glance, and driving performance should add or detract from that.

my comments were directed at your apparent ignorance towards car designing in general. every 'line' on every car ever made has a design intention, apparent, or not. your comments implied that maybe just maybe, for the first time a car manufacturer put thought into the cars entire design. that my friend was why i felt it necessary to satirically reply to your post, but i forgot, this site is taken far to seriously, by far to many brand fan boys.

good day to you sir.

Report Abuse by effington | December 15, 2008 3:31 AM I can fathom that you may have not got the gist of what exactly I was trying to put across.

But as a consumer, I do like the lines of this car, compared to other cars in its class. It may just be me, being a beemer fanboy. Again, as a consumer I couldn't give two hoots about how the car was designed and whether the designer put his/her heart and soul into it. If the lines of the car look shite, like many BMW's then I and many people will say so, obviously much to your distaste.

It was under my impression that if a car looks good its not usually by fluke, hence why I thought... well.. thought went into the car. I do apologise if you think I was in someway insulting your designer colleagues by saying thought and designer knowhow went into this car, but I assure you... this was not the case. You have assured me plenty that thought goes into every car's line, no matter how ghastly or beautiful. No need to read between the lines in a "site taken far to seriously, by far to many brand fan boys."

Good evening.

Report Abuse by TSLi | December 15, 2008 4:26 AM i have much respect for your replies on this thread. you clearly articulate what your are saying, without resorting to the usual slating back and forth that usually happens on this site.

"as a consumer I couldn't give two hoots about how the car was designed and whether the designer put his/her heart and soul into it"

i do not completely agree with this however, for soul sells! take aston martin for example, that very word appears within the dash cluster every time one of its cars are brought to life. 'power... beauty... soul...' these cars are what they are because of the passion put into them.

i am confused however, in relation to you admitting being a beemer fan boy, but then going on to say "If the lines of the car look shite, like many BMW's..." am i right to assume your not completely a bangle fan, and so this, the new Z4, is in your, and many others, a pleasant progression of the bangle theme?

so basically ive decided that this car will grow on me due to its driving credentials and engine notes, but most of all because it has people like you defending it, and hopefully buying it. so the target audience wont be yobs trying to get girls, but smart people who know how to curve a disagreement, albeit a mainly satirical one, to a positive point. i feel now i will look at this car in the flesh with a slight smile, knowing that discussion of form and design made me appreciate it. so thank you TSLi for 'melting my old opinion, then pulling and stretching it out' to a point of appreciation! haha

and good night.

Report Abuse by effington | December 15, 2008 4:47 PM Mr. (or Mrs.) effington... you are most welcome!

I am a BMW fan, but not so devout as to be blinded by an ugly design.. I guess you could say I'm a crappy fanboy. Right I think its time to put this little discussion to sleep. May your sarcasm live long among this website and I guess I'll catch you on another thread! lol

Report Abuse by TSLi | December 15, 2008 11:16 PM it's looking good, realy nice.

but i still prefer the SLK ^^

Reply | Report Abuse by GRAVE | December 14, 2008 3:06 PM I don't comment to often but today i have to do it! Everyone has the right to have an opinion but some of them are really anoying! I love beemers, but like everyone, i didn't like very much the design of the prededent 7 series...but...this Z4...it's a STEP FORWARD...it really looks better than the last one, and i believe that BMW is now in the right way to exit a no-to-good design period.

Reply | Report Abuse by orlandocroccia | December 14, 2008 3:16 PM theres a little bit of 6 series in the rear end, but overall this is a nice car, i like

Reply | Report Abuse by kumbze | December 14, 2008 3:27 PM Yuk, BMW's new design language is "Let's try to stubbornly hold on to our last design language because a substantial change is a defacto admission that we were wrong, instead let's try to slowly make our line less hideous to the eyes of most consumers".

For me this car is just too many surfaces that represent too many cliches. The proportions just don't look right.The fussy mixture of all sorts of Bangle and Boxter details just make it worse. Too bad, with it's I6 and BMW engineering I really want to like it.

BMW, please hire people who are fresh thinking designers instead of cut and paste model assemblers. The "Every detail of this car has been lifted from a another car" look is just annoying.

Reply | Report Abuse by v6s_stink | December 14, 2008 4:20 PM I hoped that BMW will release more a pure roadster like the Z3 it was.

Reply | Report Abuse by odysseus | December 14, 2008 6:27 PM "Every detail of this car has been lifted from a another car"

m...... So what do you think about Audi??

Reply | Report Abuse by Windtalker01 | December 14, 2008 6:46 PM The trick with Audi, is that it gets details from beautiful cars :)

Report Abuse by RussianMafia | December 14, 2008 8:43 PM I really don't think much about Audi styling. They are just too expensive for being tarted up VW's. I really like the older center differential quattro drive. The engines just don't warrant their price and assumed status. I guess they are scale models of each other. The certainly are less of a collection of styling cliches, though.

Report Abuse by v6s_stink | December 15, 2008 12:08 AM the interior is pefect

Reply | Report Abuse by gur | December 14, 2008 7:21 PM GAY AS ALWAYS XD....I only like the engine

Reply | Report Abuse by _M7_ | December 14, 2008 9:54 PM look's agressive .... 0-62 in 5.2sec what about the 4.0 v8 ??

Reply | Report Abuse by caraddicted | December 14, 2008 10:08 PM Wow, there are a lot of surfaces and creases, but I like it overall. It's a bit fussy but all the creases probably mellow out in the darker colors. I also like the overall proportions and unlike many folks here, I love the front and rear end treatments. At least its not mimicking other designs. I'm a bit through with the "pop up" dash displays like this one and the Mercedes C-Class. All in all, wouldn't drop this off of my shopping list.

Reply | Report Abuse by rcw | December 14, 2008 11:07 PM OVERALL MUCH BETTER THAN THE OUTGOING EDITION. CONTINUES ON THE ROAD SHARK THEME, BUT THIS ONE IS MUCH LESS EYE IRRITATING THAN THE CURRENT VERSION. THE THREE QUARTER FRONT IS NOT DRAMATIC BUT THE FRONT DEFINITELY LOOKS AGGRESSIVE/GOOD. REAR IS BETTER. WILL NOT TOCK THE BAOT

Reply | Report Abuse by car-o-bar | December 15, 2008 1:29 AM OVERALL MUCH BETTER THAN THE OUTGOING EDITION. CONTINUES ON THE ROAD SHARK THEME, BUT THIS ONE IS MUCH LESS EYE IRRITATING THAN THE CURRENT VERSION. THE THREE QUARTER FRONT IS NOT DRAMATIC BUT THE FRONT DEFINITELY LOOKS AGGRESSIVE/GOOD. REAR IS BETTER. WILL NOT ROCK THE BOAT BUT SHOULD SELL BETTER THAN THE CURRENT VERSION.

Reply | Report Abuse by car-o-bar | December 15, 2008 1:31 AM Nice overall execution. I *KNOW* it is a roadster, but the front-end (bonnet) seems too long, the seats seem too far back. And, PLEASE return to a more scrutible nomenclature. Friggin "Z4 Sdrive35i" does NOT sound good and makes little sense. "Z4 3.5i" would be fine - it says all you need to know. If they were to offer it with x-drive, then call it "Z4 3.5x" and, if a diesel, "Z4 3.0d" Keep it simple, stupid.

Reply | Report Abuse by DieselDog | December 15, 2008 2:31 AM This is a much nicer car than the previous cars. The cabin and dash are so so nice especially where the gear and idrive sit - that's the best i've seen in any car so far. The design may not be appealing to people who love the stub nosed cars but for a Merc and BMW rear drive fan - i say " this is a real sports car design". At leat it doesn't look a a "sausage with different lengths range". Grin if you can.

Reply | Report Abuse by Wisp | December 15, 2008 8:45 AM The old one looks better

Reply | Report Abuse by MTC | December 15, 2008 1:11 PM Is bmw trying to tell me that they could've made the 135i hard-top convertible? Damn i'm starting to hate bmw. Why can't they just make all the convertibles with a hard-top. Or at least let the consumer decide like chrysler does with sebring.

Reply | Report Abuse by jalmonte91 | December 15, 2008 3:32 PM BMW used soft-top on the 1 series because it doesn't take as much space in the luggage and because it wanted to give the 1 series a more young appearance. Plus the hard-top is heavier than the soft-top :) I believe going only soft top for 1 series was a smart move. They should offer soft-top and hardtop for the z4.

Report Abuse by RussianMafia | December 15, 2008 3:40 PM This is weird, when BMW made soft tops - people complained and said that BMW should try hard tops like Merc. Now that BMW is making hard tops people are now complaining saying that BMW should make Soft tops. Who wants a soft top anyway, What benefits does a soft top give you besides les weight. You have to look at the scale of pros and cons of soft tops as against hard tops. On a hard top you get two cars in one.I believe that hard tops has more pros than cons unlike the dated canvas tops.

Reply | Report Abuse by Wisp | December 15, 2008 3:52 PM Am I the only one that finds this car ugly? I miss the E36/46/39/38 days at BMW... have they ever strayed

Seems like AUDI is the only manufacturer putting out good looking cars - MB and BMW's new offerings are all bad... X6, GLK, X1, 1-Series, R-Class etc, etc?!??! I mean... come on

Reply | Report Abuse by Mike.F1 | December 15, 2008 3:56 PM " Seems like AUDI is the only manufacturer putting out good looking cars. " You must be insane or blind.

Report Abuse by BemWee | December 15, 2008 7:05 PM This is definately an improvement from the previous model. Though I still don't like the long front end and would have prefered to see this as a premanent hard top. But either way, BMW gets a B+, great job

Reply | Report Abuse by dmanero | December 15, 2008 3:59 PM Meh, ok I guess. I'll take its rivals over this anyday.

Reply | Report Abuse by TuNeR_MaD | December 15, 2008 5:52 PM As much as everyone knows on how much I hate BMW of today with their horrid Bangle designs, I must say that this one grew on me. I actually like it! Along with the 1 series, this is a nice car.

kudos BMW. Just get rid of Bangle and you'll be running to victory instead of taking baby steps.

Reply | Report Abuse by nurchus | December 15, 2008 8:08 PM It's growing on me, although I don't like the rear haunches and the front of this car. Maybe this design caters to female buyers. I'd rather have an SLK or TT.

Reply | Report Abuse by uptohere | December 15, 2008 8:16 PM Looks like BMW may have lost the plot with the 'efficient dynamics'. How can the 3.0 ltr have the same 199g/km CO2 rating as the 2.5 ltr 23i????

What happened, did the tester guy have a bad day? Did the sudden tank in sales of high CO2 cars pass BMW by? Or (more likely) did BMW just decide that there is more margin on the 3 ltr, so it would be best to take away the main reason you'd buy a smaller engine in the first place.

Man, BMW are really starting to get on my wazz. BMW take note - I had cash lined up for a car next year (likely to be a rarity), but it looks like you aint gonna be getting a penny of it!

Reply | Report Abuse by tmpuser | December 15, 2008 10:52 PM Wow, it looks no where near as ugly as I thought.

Reply | Report Abuse by wjaprep | December 15, 2008 11:10 PM Also, to me this kinda looks like a shark, it looks more like a BMW than most other BMWs.

Report Abuse by wjaprep | December 15, 2008 11:18 PM this car loooks absolutely amazing.....very sexy bimmer.....I got no idea why some of you are triping but this care looks good on picture and i bet even better in person.

Reply | Report Abuse by bavarianMS | December 16, 2008 4:03 AM The more that I look at it, the more that I like it. This is one good looking car AND good looking BMW. Love the artfulness and designer quality to the shape and details. Not some melted bar of soap.

Reply | Report Abuse by rcw | December 16, 2008 7:28 AM FANTASTIC!!!!! A BMW that actually looks good!! So beautiful !!! So Ferrari-like!!!! BMW has got it right this time. AND ABOUT TIME TOO!!! I hope this is BMW's new design language.

Reply | Report Abuse by ShahJahan | December 16, 2008 7:35 AM Hard roof...this car is going to be more expensive. Toning down the horrible Bangle swooping lines is definitely the right thing to do. This looks much better than the old crap.

Reply | Report Abuse by The_woo_factor | December 16, 2008 9:49 AM I too think it'll be more expensive. And a good thing too!!! Because, Expensive = Exclusive = Desirable.

Report Abuse by ShahJahan | December 16, 2008 11:21 AM Add Your Comment [ cancel ] Existing Users Username Password remember me on this computer New Users Username Email Password Comment