The updated BMW Z4 roadster has arrived in Australia with upgrades to trim levels and value.
BMW has fitted more equipment to the current-generation Z4 released in 2009, lifting value by between $3000 and $9000 depending on model in a three-tier range.
Part of the value lift includes the standard fitment of an eight-speed automatic gearbox that was previously a $3500 option on the four-cylinder BMW Z4 models but now sees the six-speed manual become a no-cost option.
The entry-level BMW Z4 sDrive20i starts $2400 higher at $79,900 but adds $9000 worth of features over the old model. The mid-range BMW Z4 sDrive28i is $100 less at $89,900 . With still no sign of an M model, the BMW Z4 sDrive35is remains the range-topper and has had its price tag shaved by $450 to $119,590 with added value of $3000.
Key standard features for the sDrive 20i include rollover protection system, 17-inch alloy wheels with run-flat tyres, heated side mirrors, cruise control with brake function, front and rear parking sensors, bi-xenon headlights, auto-dimming rear view mirror, rain-sensing wipers, leather gear shifter, leather upholstery, dual-zone climate control, seat heating, Bluetooth with audio streaming, internet connectivity, satellite navigation and 8.8″ colour infotainment display.
The sDrive 28i additions include 18-inch alloy wheels, sports seats with electric adjustment, 11-speaker HiFi audio, and ambient lighting.
Owning the sDrive 35is brings equipment advantages including adaptive M suspension, 19-inch M alloy wheels, adaptive lights, wind deflector, M Sport steering wheel, M aero package, high beam assist, keyless entry and engine start and higher-grade interior trim.
Each trim has a range of options to choose from, including interior trim packages. A new ‘character’ package is called Pure Traction (pictured below) and brings a mixture of Alcantara, Nappa leather, metal weave and double stitching trim elements to the cabin.
Design changes for the BMW Z4 are as mild as they come. The headlights are now narrower and feature bright white LEDs and the front quarter panels gain a chrome side ‘gill’ that includes indicator repeaters but serve no venting function.
Buyers can also order their Z4′s standard retractable hardtop roof in a contrasting black or silver to retain the roadster profile even in poor weather.
There are no mechanical changes, either, so the sDrive20i and sDrive28i continue with four-cylinder turbo engines introduced in late 2011, and the sDrive35is carries on with a twin-turbo six-cylinder.
The BMW Z4 sDrive20i produces 135kW of power and 270Nm of torque, and accelerates from 0-100km/h in 6.9 seconds.
The BMW Z4 sDrive28i is powered by an uprated version of the same 2.0-litre turbo four-cylinder, using its 180kW and 350Nm outputs to increase performance – with 0-100km/h covered in 5.5 seconds.
Both models share official fuel consumption of 6.8L/100km.
The BMW Z4 sDrive35is continues to employ a different auto, with a seven-speed dual-clutch system mated to its six-cylinder engine. It sprints to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds and consumes 9.0 litres of fuel per 100km.
CarAdvice will bring you a review of the 2013 BMW Z4 next week.
