New BMW Z4 breaks cover. Third-generation roadster gets compact body and soft-top roof.
It seems like we’ve waited an age for a new Z4 but finally BMW has rolled out its all-new roadster – so far only in flagship M40i M Performance form.
This is the third-generation Z4 and by now you’ll no doubt know that it has been twinned in development with the incoming Toyota Supra. Spreading the cost of developing a niche model has meant that the previous Z4’s pseudo-GT vibe has been replaced with a more aggressive, back-to-basics approach, which we’re hoping will have a positive effect on the driving dynamics.
The new Z4 goes on sale next year. Here’s everything you need to know.
Only the 2019 BMW Z4 M40i M Performance G29 variant has been revealed so far. featuring BMW’s 3-litre TwinPower turbocharged straight-six with 335bhp. Thus equipped, a 0-62mph time of 4.6sec is claimed, with top speed limited to 155mph. An ZF 8HP eight-speed automatic gearbox will send power to the rear wheels. Four-cylinder engines and manual ‘boxes are expected, too.
Where once there was a pert, short tail and long, extending bonnet, there is now an awkward combination of a short wheelbase and long overhangs. The styling takes inspiration from the Z4 Concept revealed at Pebble Beach last year, but when grafted onto a less extreme set of proportions, It’s obvious there have been compromises.
Despite Toyota’s influence in the new Z4, BMW’s core chassis elements have very much been adhered to. As a result the car has a 50:50 weight distribution and a wide stance and should weigh less than the outgoing model thanks to a fabric roof and more compact dimensions. This M40i M Performance model will also get larger performance brakes, adaptive dampers and an M Sport differential.
SPECIFICATION 2019 BMW Z4 M40i M Performance G29
Max Power 335bhp @ 5500rpm
Max Torque 368lb ft @ 1520rpm
Weight 1398kg
0-62mph 4.6sec
Top speed 155mph (limited)
Basic price 39.520
On sale Spring 2019
As with the chassis, the interior consists of a combination of new-generation BMW components, sharing most of its switchgear and tech with larger models such as the new BMW X5 G05 and 8-series G15. There’s a major upgrade in tech too with the latest iDrive and a head-up display.
A driver focus is still apparent, albeit toned down compared to the previous model’s steeply angled dash.
Top: head-up display among tech. Above: folding hard-top has been swapped for lighter fabric roof.
