BMW updates Z4 Roadster

BMW will offer an updated version of its 'modern classic' Z4 roadster with retractable hardtop for model year 2014. It is set to arrive in BMW dealerships in spring 2013.

Updates include new exterior features, interior refinements, a new Hyper Orange design package and availability of the full range of BMW ConnectedDrive features.

The new BMW Z4 marks the 25th anniversary of the beginning of the Z line, with the Z1. That car began the modern history of BMW Roadsters, which continue a tradition which stretches back to the 1930s and includes such classic examples as the original BMW 328 (winner of the 1940 Mille Miglia) and the BMW 507 (from 1955).

The updated Z4 maintains the classical proportions of its predecessors – a sweeping hood-line, long wheelbase, low beltline, low-slung rear end and low seating position, just ahead of the rear axle.

The retractable hardtop roof blends seamlessly into the car’s form and large window surfaces optimize all-round visibility and the feeling of space inside the car. When retracted, the two roof elements are accommodated, one on top of the other, in the Roadster’s trunk.

The hardtop can be opened at the touch of a button while the car is moving at up to 40 km/h, in about 19 seconds.

New to the new model is a Hyper Orange package, which replaces the previously available Citrus Yellow Package.

New interior additions to the standard specification include the iDrive control system’s folding Control Display, which comes as part of the optional navigation system.

An optional M Sport package includes Adaptive M suspension, 18-inch M light-alloy wheels and an M aerodynamics package with large air intakes and a rear bumper inlay painted Anthracite metallic.

Inside, there are sports seats, an M leather steering wheel, M driver’s footrest, M door sill finishers, an anthracite-colored roof liner, an Aluminum Carbon trim strip, M leather gear lever knob and grey dials for the instrument cluster.

The Z4 will be available with one four-cylinder and two inline-six powerplants, all featuring TwinPower Turbo technology.

The Z4 sDrive28i features a TwinPower Turbo 2.0-liter four cylinder engine that produces 240 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque.

The BZ4 sDrive35i features an N54 TwinPower Turbo 3.0-liter inline-6, producing 300 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque.

The top-of-the-line Z4 sDrive35is features a higher-output version of the N54 producing 335 horsepower and 332 lb-ft of torque. It is said to accelerate from 0-to-100 km/h (60 mph) in 4.8 seconds.

A standard Driving Experience Control allows drivers to select from COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT modes to suit the circumstances and user's preference.