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July 3, 2002 - BMW has revealed the first official pictures of the new BMW Z4 roadster, which will be shown to the public for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in September.
Characterised by convex and concave surfaces, hard edges and gentle curvature, the Z4 is the first production BMW to be strongly influenced by the new 'flame surfacing' design language previewed in the X-coupe and CS1 concepts. The front fender and door cutlines graphically define the boundaries of a very sculptural bodyside treatment that emphasises the BMW badge, which also incorporates the turn signal. The interplay of lines and surfaces creates new transitions of light and shadow from every angle, giving the Z4 a distinctive visual character.
The Z4 has all the classic hallmarks of a roadster – a long and powerfully curved hood, a long wheelbase with short overhangs, a low seating position in a cockpit that is set back, and a wide track, all of which create a purposeful, sporting impression. Luggage space has been increased to provide the new Z4 with a boot capacity of up to 260 litres, enough space for two golf bags.
The Z4 will be available with two six-cylinder engines. The 3.0i has 231 bhp and a top speed of 155 mph and the 2.5i, 192 bhp and a maximum speed of 146 mph. The Z4 3.0i features a new six speed manual gearbox. BMW’s sequential manual gearbox (SSG) will be available as an option on both engine models. This second generation system features a modified six-speed transmission and enables the driver to make instant gearshifts via paddles on the steering wheel or with the gear selector.
The BMW Z4 has been designed with a focus on agility and handling. Featuring the modified rear axle of the BMW 3 Series the new Z4 has 50:50 front/rear weight distribution, high performance brakes, run-flat tyres and DSC III as standard.
New for the Z4 is Dynamic Drive Control or DDC which is activated by pressing the ‘sport’ button on the centre console. DDC allows the Z4 engine management system to deliver an even sportier accelerator pedal response curve and change the steering weight to a more direct feel.
The new Z4 will be available with an extensive range of options including a satellite navigation system that retracts into the instrument panel, car telephone and state of the art hi-fi equipment. Standard features include leather sports steering wheel, a rollover safety system and fully automatic roof folding with a heated glass rear window.
The Z4 will be available for sale in the US market this fall, making it's appearance in Europe in spring 2003. As before, the new roadster will be built in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
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