What's the news?
Following on from an initial batch of information on the 2019 BMW Z4 roadster, in which we learned all about the range-topping Z4 M40i variant, BMW has released more details, including those for the two four-cylinder engined models. The Z4 will be on display at the Paris Motor Show next month and goes on sale in Ireland at the start of 2019, within the '191' registration period.
By way of reminder, the Z4 M40i is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine, making 340hp and 500Nm of torque. It gets a lot of 'Cerium Grey' detailing and other design features to mark it out as an M Performance Vehicle. BMW quotes 4.6 seconds for the 0-100km/h sprint.
Below that sit the Z4 sDrive30i and sDrive20i. The 'sDrive' bit just means they're rear-wheel drive (we're not expecting there to ever be a four-wheel-drive variant badged xDrive) and both these models use turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engines. The sDrive30i does 0-100km/h in 5.4 seconds thanks to peak outputs of 258hp and 400Nm, while the sDrive20i makes 197hp and 320Nm of torque, good for 0-100km/h in 6.6 seconds. Emissions for the four-cylinder Z4s starts at 137g/km (Band B2) and the Z4 M40i emits from 162g/km. All Z4s use an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The soft-top is black as standard and can be ordered in Anthracite with silver effect as an option. It's operated electrically (at speeds of up to 50km/h) and it takes 10 seconds to raise or lower. The boot space (281 litres - a good deal more than the previous Z4) is unaffected by the roof position.
Anything else?
Inspect the dimensions of the new BMW Z4 and you'll discover that, while it's longer, wider and a little taller than before, the wheelbase is some 26mm shorter. That's in a bid to enhance the Z4's agility. On top of that, the front and rear tracks have been considerably increased, which should improve the roadster's ability in the corners further. We'll be driving the new Z4 next month, so keep an eye on the BMW Z4 reviews page for the test drive.