The first half of 2019 is shaping up to be a busy one for BMW, with the German luxury automaker set to launch of slew of new models including the X2 M35i, the M850i Coupe and Cabriolet, and the new Z4.
The new G29 Z4 is based on the Z4 Concept, originally unveiled at the 2017 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. For the first time ever, the Z4 was co-developed with another automaker. And thanks to a partnership with Toyota, the new Z4 and the upcoming A90 Toyota Supra share a fair amount of DNA.
Riding on BMW’s lightweight CLAR platform, the new Z4 boasts a 50:50 weight distribution, as well as weight savings of up to 50kg compared to its predecessor. It uses a soft-top convertible roof, instead of a retractable hardtop, and can be raised or lowered in 10 seconds at speeds of up to 50kph. Its boot is also 50% larger than the model it replaces, and has a capacity of 281 litres.
From the outside, the way in which the roadster concept has evolved is particularly plain to see from the car's proportions. The new Z4 has a low-slung, sporty, compact appearance when viewed from any angle. It is 85mm longer than its predecessor (at 4,324mm), 74mm wider (now 1,864mm) and 13 mm taller (1,304mm). The shortening of the wheelbase by 26mm to 2,470mm serves to sharpen agility, as do the notably wider tracks - 1,609mm at the front (+ 98mm) and 1,616mm at the rear (+ 57mm).
The two-seater Z4 is offered with a 10.25-inch display running BMW’s latest iDrive 7.0 operating system. It is available with BMW ConnectedDrive services which allow for over-the-air updates for the navigation maps and operating system. Much like the new 7 Series, its digital key feature allows the car to be unlocked and started with a smartphone, and access can be shared with other people. It is also available with a customisable, digital instrument cluster (called BMW Live Cockpit Professional).
Only two models will be offered locally, an sDrive 2.0i and the range-topping M40i. The sDrive 2.0i uses a B48 turbocharged 2.0-litre motor to produce 145kw and 320nm, whereas the M40i uses the highly rated B58 turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six to produce 250kw and 500nm, available from 1,600 to 4,500rpm. In the M40i, standout features of the B58 include a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head, sharper turbocharger response and superior acceleration, and direct injection technology which now works at increased maximum pressure of 350 bar. It’s also widely expected that the Supra will use the same motor, and boast the same outputs.
Interestingly, our local spec model is actually down on power compared to the US-spec model which produces 285kw from the same motor. Paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic, the M40i will blitz from 0-100kph in just 4.6 seconds. And being an M Performance car, it will come standard with adaptive dampers, M Sport brakes, and an electronically controlled rear differential. The transmission also features a Launch Control function for accelerating hard from a standing start with optimised traction. The transmission fitted in the M40i has been configured with M-specific shift characteristics very much in tune with the inline-six engine's power delivery.
The Z4 is available as an M40i First Edition model and features Frozen Orange metallic paintwork and Vernasca leather, 19-inch alloy wheels, adaptive dampers, a Harman Kardon surround sound system, and a head-up display.
BMW South Africa plans to launch the new Z4 locally during the first quarter of 2019.
BMW Z4 sDrive 2.0i R755 900
BMW Z4 M40i R1 030 500
Also worth a look: the BMW Glc and the BMW M3.
FAQ
Q: What does the BMW Z4 cost in South Africa?
The BMW Z4 sDrive20i starts at around R850,000 in South Africa, whilst the more potent sDrive30i will set you back approximately R1,100,000, making it a premium roadster that competes directly with the Porsche Boxster and Mercedes-AMG SLC.
Q: Is the BMW Z4 worth buying?
The BMW Z4 is absolutely worth buying if you want a proper German roadster with brilliant handling, a gorgeous interior, and that addictive straight-six soundtrack, but only if you can live with just two seats and limited practicality for everyday use.
Q: How fast is the BMW Z4 and what engine does it have?
The BMW Z4 sDrive20i produces 145kW from its 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder and hits 100kph in 6.6 seconds, whilst the sDrive30i's 3.0-litre turbo straight-six pumps out 250kW and rockets to 100kph in just 5.4 seconds.
Q: What are the main competitors to the BMW Z4 in South Africa?
The BMW Z4's main rivals in South Africa include the Porsche Boxster (from R1,200,000), Mercedes-AMG SLC43 (around R1,050,000), and the Audi TT Roadster (from R780,000), making the Z4 competitively priced in the premium roadster segment.
Should You Buy It?
Yes, you should definitely buy the BMW Z4 if you're after the best premium roadster under R1,200,000 in South Africa. The Z4 sDrive30i at R1,100,000 delivers that intoxicating straight-six engine note, razor-sharp handling thanks to its 50:50 weight distribution, and a luxurious cabin that puts some supercars to shame. Sure, it's not the most practical car for hauling groceries or taking the family on holiday, but as a weekend toy or second car, the Z4 is absolutely brilliant. The soft-top that drops in 10 seconds, the 281-litre boot that's actually usable, and BMW's latest tech make this a roadster you can live with every day. Just avoid the entry-level sDrive20i and go straight for the six-cylinder sDrive30i, because that engine is pure automotive poetry in motion.
