New BMW Z4

BMW has finally lifted the lid on the new Z4 – and replaced the fabric roof of old with a folding hard-top.

As with the latest 3-Series Cabriolet, the Z4 now boasts a smart electro-hydraulic lid which can be raised or lowered in 20 seconds.

But the powered top isn’t the only thing BMW has reworked on its sports car.

The sharp lines of the outgoing model have been complemented by gentle curves and muscular haunches. Head-on, the Z4 smiles rather than frowns, thanks to smoother, sweeping headlamps. The tail-lights have been redesigned to match. Under the skin, BMW has axed the entry-level 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit in favour of heftier six-cylinder power.

There’s a choice of three petrol engines, comprising a 201bhp 2.3, 255bhp 3.0 and a range-topping 302bhp twin-turbo 3.0-litre. These are badged 23i, 30i and 35i respectively.

With an automatic gearbox, this car will cover 0-62mph in 7.3 seconds and reach a top speed of 149mph. The flagship 35i has a time of 5.1 seconds and a 155mph maximum. All new models are offered with a six-speed manual box as standard. However, the 35i comes with the option of BMW’s seven-speed double-clutch set-up.

This system drops the 0-62mph time by a further tenth of a second. It also raises fuel economy by 1.3mpg to 31.4mpg, and lowers CO2 emissions from 219g/km to 210g/km. A six-speed automatic box with steering wheel-mounted paddleshifters is available as an option on the 23i and 30i.

The new Z4 comes with electronically controlled M Sport suspension. This provides three different settings for the driver to select, depending on the type of responses required.

There’s also a new Drive Dynamic Control set-up, which enables throttle response, steering and ride comfort to be adjusted to taste. Inside the Z4, there’s a high-quality cabin. The driver-focused layout features twin inset dials and a deep-dished steering wheel. Heater and air-conditioning controls are now arranged in a group, and set higher to improve ease of use.

The stereo has been moved further down the centre console. By making the new car 148m longer and 9mm wider than its predecessor – as well as redesigning the cabin – BMW claims to have freed up more space inside.

There is an extra 20mm and 43mm of shoulder and elbow room respectively. What’s more, the new roof arrangement provides a further 44mm of headroom. There’s a generous boot for the sports car class, too – owners get 180 litres with the lid down and 310 litres of space when it’s raised.

Customers also have the option of a loading system which frees up extra storage space between the seats. It’s big enough, according to BMW, for a set of golf clubs. Prices are due to start at around £25,000 when the Z4 goes on sale early next year.