BMW reveals sporty new Z4

The two-seat BMW Z4 has been redesigned and now features a folding hardtop.

It's months before most convertible owners will be considering dropping their tops, but BMW thinks it's apt to unveil the new Z4 roadster ahead of the New Year, especially as it comes as standard with a folding hardtop.

Although based on the outgoing car's floorpan, the new Z4 is effectively a new car featuring a wealth of significant upgrades.

Most obvious is its sharp styling, taking cues from the latest BMW concepts and successful models such as the 6 Series coupé. The folding hardtop replaces the previous car's fabric roof and takes just 20 seconds to raise or lower.

Thanks to modest dimension increases, interior space has been improved, while visibility and headroom have been enhanced thanks to the new roof design.

The interior in general will benefit from an overhaul in line with the rest of the BMW range and several changes have been made in a bid to improve the two-seater's practicality.

At launch, three six-cylinder petrol engines will be offered. Top of the range is the sDrive35i model, powered by BMW's award-winning twin-turbo unit. Over 300bhp is channelled to the rear wheels to result in a 0-62mph time of just 5.2 seconds.

Despite the performance, this model still manages to return over 30mpg on the combined cycle, with CO₂ rated at 219g/km. Buyers of the sDrive35i may also opt for a seven-speed, dual-clutch transmission in place of the standard six-speed manual, which will further enhance acceleration, economy and emissions.

Sadly, the Double Clutch Transmission is not available on either the sDrive23i or the sDrive30i, both fitted with either a six-speed manual or a conventional six-speed automatic gearbox. However, these models both return 33.2mpg and duck under 200g/km of CO₂.

Other innovations to feature on the new Z4 include optional Adaptive M Suspension and Drive Dynamic Control (DDC), the former allowing the driver to choose from Normal, Sport or Sport+ damping, while DDC controls several driving parameters at the touch of a button, enabling the driver to customise their car's response according to the road or their mood.

Despite the early information, the new Z4 doesn't go on sale until May 2009.

Shane O' Donoghue