New BMW Z4 revealed in detail

BMW has released all important details about the upcoming Z4 roadster update ahead of its Paris premiere. Let’s have a closer look at these.

The next generation of the Z4 trades the retractable hard top for a soft top. It is also now 85 mm (3.3 in) longer, 75 mm (3 in) wider and 13 mm (0.5 in) taller than its predecessor while having a 26 mm (1 in) shorter wheelbase.

The new dimensions are as follows: length 4,324 mm (14.2 ft.), width 1,864 mm (6.12 ft.), height 1,304 mm (4.28 ft.), wheelbase 2,470 mm (8.1 ft.).

Rumors that the new Z4 could weigh less than the previous generation model have proven false: the highest trim is actually 10 kilograms (22 lb) heavier than before.

On the other hand, the leaked engine power figured turned out to be accurate. In its cheaper versions, the car will ship with a choice between two 2.0-liter turbocharged engines rated at 197 hp (147 kW) and 258 hp (192 kW). The former will enable it to accelerate 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) in 6.6s, and the latter in 5.4s.

The top-spec Z4 M40i will ship with a 3.0-liter V6T engine capable of 340 hp (254 kW) and will sprint 0-100 in 4.5s. All versions will get eight-speed automatic transmissions.

Basic features will include LED lighting, lane control, and emergency brake. Drivers will be able to select from three drive modes: Comfort, Sport and Sport Plus.

The highest trim will take advantage of M Series brakes, adaptive suspension, an electronic diff lock system, a set of 19-inch wheels, cruise control, a parking aid, a HUD, and traffic sign recognition software.

The trunk volume will always be 281 liters (10 cu.ft.), regardless of whether the roof is currently folded or unfolded. This is notably different from the previous generation, where folded roof meant less trunk space.

The BMW Z4 will enter mass production in spring of 2019.

Photo: motor1.com