• BMW Z4 M40i available with six-speed manual gearbox for the first time with the new Handschalter Pack.
• Exclusively finished with Frozen Deep Green paint and Cognac interior.
• Available to order now, priced from €98,330. First deliveries starting in spring 2024.

Introducing the BMW Z4 Handschalter, a new arrival that exemplifies exhilarating open-top driving pleasure. For the first time, the range topping BMW Z4 M40i (fuel consumption combined: 6.92 – 6.66 I/100km; CO2 emissions combined: 198 – 191 g/km in WLTP cycle) will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The new engine/transmission pairing forms the core element of an enticing equipment package designed to place greater emphasis than ever on the two-seater’s unwavering focus on delivering an exhilarating open-top driving experience. The Handschalter Pack brings retuned chassis technology and mixed-size M light-alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear. Exclusive design features for both the exterior and interior are also included.

Muscular roadster proportions with M-specific design features; two seats and a classic soft-top roof; a free-revving six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology, sending its power to the road through the rear wheels: this formula has seen the BMW Z4 M40i establish itself as the archetypal purist’s sports car. Adding to this driving experience is the manual gearbox, deftly harnessing the 340hp output from the straight-six engine.

The BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter is available to order at BMW Retailers across Ireland from today, with the first deliveries starting in spring 2024.

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption, electric range and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.}

Fresh impetus for the global market leader in the premium roadster segment.

This new offering at the top of the model range pairs the most powerful variant of the roadster with the ideal tools to further increase its popularity. To date, nearly half of all customers in Germany have opted for the flagship version of the BMW Z4, whose straight-six engine gives it a unique selling point in a fiercely competitive segment occupied solely by German premium brands. The BMW M model has accounted for over 30 per cent of the roadster’s global sales volume in recent times.

The current, third generation of the BMW Z4 has been the leader in the premium roadster segment since launch with this model line-up and has seen its market shares grow continuously. The main sales region for the open-top two-seater is Germany, followed by the USA, China, the UK and Japan. The BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter will be launched with a production phase-in from March 2024. The roadster will continue to be built at the BMW Group’s manufacturing partner Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in the Austrian city of Graz.

The BMW roadster: giving a successful tradition a modern twist.

The history of roadsters from BMW is closely intertwined with a passion for sporty driving pleasure and abundant success on the racetrack. It stretches all the way back to the company’s early days as a carmaker and sits in its modern form in the shape of the BMW Z4.

A six-cylinder in-line engine, manual gearbox and rear-wheel drive also defined the driving experience in the BMW 328, which capped its debut public appearance in 1936 with victory in the Eifelrennen race at the Nürburgring. In more recent times, updated versions of this same powertrain arrangement have also made frequent appearances in the brand’s roadsters. This is true of both the BMW Z1, which was unveiled in 1987 after being developed as an innovation testbed by BMW Technik, and the BMW Z3 presented in 1995. And the first two model generations of the BMW Z4 also embraced the same recipe for delivering exhilarating driving pleasure under open skies.

Exclusive combination: six cylinders and a six-speed manual gearbox.

The pairing of a straight-six engine with a six-speed manual gearbox means the new BMW Z4 M40i represents a unique proposition in this segment – and also a highly exclusive set-up within the BMW product portfolio. In fact, the only models in the current range available with this drive configuration are high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH. But now a BMW M Performance model is set to join them with the arrival of the BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter.

The 3.0-litre unit in the BMW Z4 M40i owes its familiar free-revving performance, instantaneous power delivery and silky smoothness to the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine’s special characteristics include a forged crankshaft, weight-optimised pistons and a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head. A twin-scroll turbocharger supplies the six combustion chambers with compressed air, whose temperature is regulated by means of an indirect intercooler. The package of drive unit technologies also comprises High Precision Injection operating at pressures up to 350 bar, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing.

With peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) that can be summoned between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm, the engine generates compelling pulling power. Its maximum output of hp is on tap from 5,000 – 6,500 rpm.

In this special model, the task of transmitting power to the road is handled by a six-speed manual gearbox developed exclusively for the BMW Z4 M40i. It is a BMW modular transmission incorporating M-specific components for the gear set and shafts that has been modified for the straight-six engine’s output. The outer shift mechanism, comprising the shift lever, its guide and the connection to the transmission, has likewise been custom made for the BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter Pack – and delivers the unrivalled shift feel for which BMW models are renowned. The direct flow of power between engine and transmission combined with the driver’s central involvement in gear changes reinforces the emotional bond between driver and vehicle. A precisely defined shift action enables the gears to be changed swiftly and intuitively.

When power is relayed via the six-speed manual gearbox, the six-cylinder in-line engine propels the BMW Z4 M40i to 62 km/h from rest in 4.6 seconds. The sprint from 0 to 62 km/h takes 4.5 seconds on models with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Although by default the Steptronic Sport transmission will select the gears automatically, it also lets the driver control gear selection manually if desired. The shift paddles on the steering wheel are designed to allow spontaneous interaction with the drive system.

Refined chassis tuning, mixed-size wheels for the first time on the BMW Z4.

Compact proportions, minimised weight, a low centre of gravity and virtually perfect 50:50 weight distribution are the defining elements of a BMW Z4 vehicle concept honed precisely to deliver agility and dynamic performance. The extremely rigid body and chassis structure and excellent aerodynamic attributes also help to mould the sports car character of the Z4. The roadster’s chassis design, combining a double-joint spring strut front axle with a five-link rear axle, produces a compelling and harmonious blend of dynamism and ride comfort.

The standard equipment roster for the BMW Z4 M40i includes variable sport steering, M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential at the rear axle along with adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, whose software has undergone extra fine-tuning for the Handschalter Pack. The exclusive chassis technology aboard the special model features bespoke auxiliary springs at the front and rear axles. A specially reinforced anti-roll bar clamp is also fitted at the front, while both the mapping for electronic control of the rear dampers and the software for the variable sport steering have been newly adjusted. In order to achieve sharper handling characteristics that will be appreciated by driving purists, the development team also equipped the traction control and M Sport differential with model-specific control logic.

Another new feature on the chassis side relates to the wheel sizes, as different-size wheels are being fitted to the model year 2024 BMW Z4 M40i for the first time. The new M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design with a Black high-gloss finish measure 19 inches in diameter at the front axle and 20 inches at the rear. Previously reserved for high-performance models from BMW M GmbH, this pairing enables optimum transfer of drive power to the road – especially in conjunction with rear-wheel drive – together with highly effective transmission of lateral control forces when cornering hard.

Handschalter Pack with individual exterior features.

In addition to the six-speed manual gearbox, the refined chassis tuning and the combination of 19-inch and 20-inch M light-alloy wheels, the Handschalter Pack also adds individual design features to the exterior of the BMW Z4 M40i. These give the roadster a sharper look that underlines its more rounded sports car character, while also complementing the familiar M exterior features for optimising airflow and aerodynamic balance. They include the M High-gloss Shadowline trim with extended features – which also incorporates the model badging on the front side panels and the vehicle’s rear end – as well as the exterior mirror caps painted in Black high-gloss, specially designed flaps for streamlining the airflow in the area around the rear wheel arches and red brake callipers for the M Sport brakes.

A new exterior colour also forms part of the Handschalter Pack’s specification, Frozen Deep Green metallic finish, exclusively available in the Z4 family on this model.

The soft-top roof of the BMW Z4 is also available in an Anthracite Silver effect finish as an alternative to the standard black colour for all model variants. It is electrically operated and can be opened or closed in the space of ten seconds at the touch of a button, even while travelling at speeds up to 31 km/h. A wind deflector, seat heating and two-zone automatic climate control also form part of standard specification on all variants of the roadster. The standard storage package.

Exclusive interior appointments for the Handschalter Pack .

The interior of the BMW Z4 has been crafted for the enjoyment of unfettered driving pleasure in a space with a modern and sophisticated sports car feel. The driver-centric cockpit design and model-specific sport seats with integral head restraints both help to achieve this goal. The cabin combines clean lines that seem to surge forward with trim surfaces concentrated in just a few areas.

The Handschalter Pack includes M-specific design features for the interior supplemented by a number of exclusive details. For instance, there is an M gearshift lever with model-specific sleeve on the centre console that is used to control the special model’s six-speed manual gearbox. The Vernasca leather trim in Cognac with black M piping – also exclusive to the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse – exudes a blend of sumptuous elegance and sporting flair. It is complemented by interior trim strips in Black high-gloss.

Pure driving pleasure meets intuitive operation and state-of-the-art driver assistance systems.

The familiar driver focus of BMW models and the ergonomically enhanced interior design aimed at providing an engaging driving experience also come together with the BMW iDrive display and control/operation system in the BMW Z4. This system combines with the BMW Live Cockpit Professional fitted as standard in all BMW Z4 model variants to ensure intuitive vehicle operation and intelligent connectivity. It comprises a fully digital instrument cluster with customisable graphics and a control display with touchscreen operation – both with a screen diagonal of 10.25 inches – as well as the Controller on the centre console and the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant. The BMW Maps navigation system, a hard-drive-based multimedia system, smartphone integration and a WiFi hotspot are also part of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional package. The Hi-Fi speaker system, a hands-free facility with USB interface and an alarm system are also fitted as standard, while the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System with 12 speakers can be added as an option.

The BMW Z4 additionally offers customers a selection of driver assistance systems that are carefully geared to the enjoyment of pure driving pleasure. Front collision warning with brake intervention, Lane Departure Warning with lane return and the Speed Limit Info function with no-overtaking indicator all come as standard. Features to be found on the options list include Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, the Lane Change Warning system, Rear Collision Prevention and Crossing Traffic Warning, along with the Parking Assistant, Reversing Assist Camera and the Reversing Assistant. The BMW Head-Up Display – also available as an option – projects driving-related information onto the roadster’s windscreen.

ENDS

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data including fuel consumption, electric range and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected. **Electronically limited.}

<sup>Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.

For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/ .</sup>

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises over 30 production sites worldwide; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2022, the BMW Group sold nearly 2.4 million passenger vehicles and more than 202,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2022 was € 23.5 billion on revenues amounting to €142.6 billion. As of 31 December 2022, the BMW Group had a workforce of 149,475 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

www.bmwgroup.com

www.press.bmwgroup.ie

BMW Media:

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For further information, please contact:

Laura Condron | Corporate Communications & Events Manager | 086 047 7549 | Laura.Condron@BMW.ie

BMW’s Z4 roadster has been updated to include fresh design accents to the exterior, with enhanced standard equipment and a wider range of options to choose from. The new features not only underscore the sporting character of the BMW Z4 but also build on its success in the Bavarian carmaker’s line-up and its important role in the company’s long history of open-top sports cars.

The BMW Z4 brings the traditional roadster experience to the modern era. With powerful engines, rear-wheel drive and a classical fabric soft-top roof, the BMW Z4 is engineered with a focus on maximum agility, dynamism and steering precision. It features a contemporary high-class interior with a driver-focused cockpit layout. Its external appearance exudes sporting potency, particularly with the M Sport package which is now included as standard for the four-cylinder models.

Customers will benefit from the expanded standard specification and a wide selection of exterior paint finishes, including three new variants, whilst additional M light-19-inch alloy wheels and M lights Shadow Line provide extra scope for customers to put their own individual stamp on their BMW Z4.

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.  **Electronically limited.}

The third generation: six-cylinder in-line engine sets it apart.

For 20 years, the BMW Z4 has been an important part of BMW’s open top story. The third generation of went on sale in 2018 and is built by BMW Group production partner Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz, Austria. The latest model launches in November 2022.

The engine line-up in the UK comprises of a four-cylinder option and a six-cylinder in-line unit that gives the BMW Z4 M40i (fuel consumption combined: 8.1 – 7.9 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 184 – 179 g/km in the WLTP cycle) a genuinely unique selling point in its segment. The BMW M model has accounted for more than 30 per cent of worldwide sales of the roadster in recent times; in Germany the BMW Z4 M40i has posted a figure as high as 48 per cent.

Over 55,000 units of the third-generation BMW Z4 have been sold worldwide to date. The most important individual market is Germany, where approximately 26 per cent of all cars from the current model generation have been sold. Following Germany is the USA (with 17 per cent), then China, the United Kingdom and Japan.

In a generally diminishing vehicle segment, the BMW Z4 has maintained extraordinarily consistent sales volumes since it went on sale. From day one, it has been by far the highest-selling model in a hotly contested class populated exclusively by German premium brands. And it has consistently increased its market share ever since.

More dynamic than ever: M Sport as standard, BMW kidney grille with a new design.

With muscular proportions, an aesthetic guided by BMW’s current design language and a host of individual details, the exterior design of the BMW Z4 encapsulates the modern interpretation of the classical open-top sports car.

Hallmark features of the front end include the large air intakes, the LED headlights with vertically arranged light sources positioned to the outer edges, and the long bonnet, which stretches over the wheel arches. The latest design modifications shine an even brighter spotlight on the roadster’s width and powerful stance.

Playing a particularly prominent role are the exterior features of the M Sport trim level, which are is now the entry point into the Z4 range. The exterior design includes the three-section air intakes in the front apron familiar from other M models, distinctive side-sill contouring and a rear apron with bold edging at either side. The side air intakes – which guide the onrushing air to the air curtains, reducing turbulence in the wheel arches – have been remodelled.

And detail updates have been made to the design of the BMW kidney grille, which has gained significantly in visual impact. The kidneys now have a horizontal inner structure, reinforcing the impression of a wide front end. The performance-centric character of the BMW Z4 M40i is underscored by features including exterior mirror caps in Cerium Grey and trapezoidal tailpipe trims for the exhaust system.

Also contributing to the sporting authenticity of the BMW Z4’s exterior appearance are the clear surfaces of the car’s flanks (with two dynamically flowing character lines bringing structure), the large air breathers rearwards of the front wheel arches, the spoiler integrated into the boot lid, the slim, L-shaped rear lights and the eye-catching diffuser element in the rear apron. The roadster’s classical fabric soft-top is electrically operated and can also be opened or closed – within the space of 10 seconds – at the touch of a button while the car is moving at speeds of up to 50km/h.

Exclusive 19-inch M light-alloy wheels, three new exterior colours.

New additions to standard equipment include 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in double-spoke design. These bi-colour wheels are fitted with mixed-size tyres: 225/45 R18 at the front axle and 255/40 R18 at the rear.

Options now available to customers include M light-alloy wheels in 19-inch format designed exclusively for the BMW Z4. The V-spoke design, Jet Black matt finish and diamond polished rim edges bring an extremely striking and sophisticated aura to the roadster’s side view. The 19-inch M light-alloy wheels are shod with tyres in 255/35 ZR19 format at the front axle and 275/35 ZR19 at the rear.

The range of exterior paint finishes for the BMW Z4 has been carefully revised, with new and boldly expressive variants added. As well as the body colours Thundernight metallic, Portimao Blue metallic and Skyscraper Grey metallic available for the roadster for the first time, the selection also includes four other variants spanning a broad spectrum between white, black, red and grey – including the shimmering matt BMW Individual paint finish Frozen Grey metallic. The fabric soft-top of the BMW Z4 will continue to be offered in Anthracite Silver effect as an alternative to the standard black.

Also new to the options list are the M lights Shadow Line, which can be ordered in conjunction with the likewise optional Adaptive LED Headlights. The headlights’ dark inserts help imbue the front end of the car with a discreetly sporting aura. And they form a neatly judged composition with the M high-gloss Shadowline exterior trim with extended elements.

Classical sports car cockpit with M-specific touches.

The design of the BMW Z4 interior is led by a driver-focused cockpit layout, sport seats with integral head restraints, clear, forward-facing lines and the limiting of decorative surfaces to a small number of areas. The BMW Z4 sDrive20i (fuel consumption combined: 7.4 – 6.9 litres/100 km; CO2 emissions combined: 166 – 157 g/km in the WLTP cycle) comes as standard with Vernasca leather, which can be specified in Black, Ivory White, Cognac or Magma Red.

Added to which, the classical sports car cockpit is combined with an instrument panel in Sensatec. Seat heating, the wind deflector, extended storage, the through-loading system, Park Distance Control with sensors at the front and rear, the automatically dimming rear-view mirror and two-zone automatic climate control are included as standard in all model variants. The BMW Z4 M40i is also fitted as standard with ambient lighting and M door sill finishers.

High-revving engines, sophisticated chassis technology.

Instantaneous power delivery, an enthusiastic appetite for revs, exemplary efficiency and the smoothness for which BMW is renowned are the signature characteristics of the three petrol engines also available for the new edition of the BMW Z4. The four-cylinder engine powering the BMW Z4 sDrive20i teams up as standard with a eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. The Steptronic Sport transmission comes with shift paddles on the steering wheel and a Launch Control function for traction-optimised acceleration off the line.

The exceptional status of the BMW Z4 when it comes to powertrain technology is embodied most prominently by the top-of-the-range model, whose six-cylinder in-line engine with M TwinPower Turbo technology is unmatched by any rival and displays outstanding performance attributes. The 3.0-litre 340 hp unit develops peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) and powers the BMW Z4 M40i from 0 to 100km/h in 4.5 seconds. The four-cylinder engine, with a displacement of 2.0 litres and BMW TwinPower Turbo technology, stands out with its lively performance characteristics. With maximum output of 197 hp and peak torque of 320 Nm (236 lb-ft), the BMW Z4 sDrive20i sprints from rest to 100 km/h in 6.6 seconds.

Together with its compact proportions, minimised weight, low centre of gravity and almost perfect 50 : 50 weight distribution, the immense rigidity of the body and chassis structure and highly effective aerodynamics of the BMW Z4 provides the ideal platform for sporty handling that will enthuse and delight. Unlocking a compelling blend of agility and ride comfort is chassis technology which brings together a two-joint spring strut front axle and a five-link rear axle. Standard specification for all model variants also includes variable sport steering.

The M Sport suspension, now part of standard equipment, optimises driving dynamics with its firm damper and spring tuning. The BMW Z4 M40i has adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers M Sport brakes with a choice of blue- or red-painted callipers. The range-topping model is also fitted with an M Sport differential at the rear axle.

Cutting-edge driver assistance systems, intelligent connectivity.

The BMW Z4 offers customers a host of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems to enhance levels of both comfort and safety. Standard specification includes Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, Lane Departure Warning including lane return, and the Speed Limit Info function with no-overtaking indicator. Among the items on the options list are the Active Cruise Control with Stop&Go function, Lane Change Warning, rear collision warning, crossing traffic warning, the Parking Assistant and the Reversing Assist Camera. Also available is the BMW Head-Up Display, which projects driving information onto the windscreen.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional ensures intuitive operation and intelligent connectivity. It brings customisable screens for the fully digital instrument cluster and control display, both of which have a diagonal of 10.25 inches. Its functionality also includes the BMW Maps navigation system, a hard-drive-based multimedia system, the BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant, smartphone integration, a Wi-Fi hotspot and an alarm system.

Ends

^{*All figures relating to performance, fuel consumption and emissions are provisional. All the stated technical data, fuel consumption and emissions figures relate to the offering in the German market. Dimensions and measurements refer to vehicles with basic configuration in Germany. These may vary depending on the wheel/tyre size and items of optional equipment selected.}

^{**Electronically limited.}

^{Fuel consumption, CO2 emission figures and power consumption were measured using the methods required according to Regulation VO (EC) 2007/715 as amended. The figures are calculated using a vehicle fitted with basic equipment in Germany, the ranges stated take into account differences in selected wheel and tyre sizes as well as the optional equipment. They may change during configuration.}

^{For further details of the official fuel consumption figures and official specific CO2 emissions of new cars, please refer to the "Manual on fuel consumption, CO2 emissions and power consumption of new cars", available at sales outlets, from Deutsche Automobil Treuhand GmbH (DAT), Hellmuth-Hirth-Str. 1, 73760 Ostfildern-Scharnhausen and at https://www.dat.de/co2/ .}

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 31 production and assembly facilities in 15 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2021, the BMW Group sold over 2.5 million passenger vehicles and more than 194,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2021 was € 16.1 billion on revenues amounting to € 111.2 billion. As of 31 December 2021, the BMW Group had a workforce of 118,909 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company set the course for the future at an early stage and consistently makes sustainability and efficient resource management central to its strategic direction, from the supply chain through production to the end of the use phase of all products.

BMW Media: www.press.bmwgroup.ie

@ BMW Ireland Facebook

@ BMW Ireland Twitter

@ BMW Ireland Instagram

@ BMW Ireland LinkedIn

@ BMW Ireland YouTube

For further information, please contact:

Laura Condron | Corporate Communications & Events Manager | 086 047 7549 | Laura.Condron@BMW.ie

Roadsters have played an important role in BMW's history and the all-new 2019 BMW Z4 is set to write another chapter in the open-top story. Since the birth of the first example, the famous BMW 328, all BMW roadsters have shared common proportions and design principles - long bonnet; low, set-back driving position, long wheelbase and short overhangs. The new BMW Z4 is no different.  It shares all of those traditional principles, but takes the roadster experience to the next level with a focus on agility, dynamic performance and precise handling thanks to the high rigidity of the body structure and chassis mountings, the intelligent lightweight design and optimised aerodynamic properties. The new BMW Z4 combines its pure sporting pedigree with a wealth of highly advanced, top class equipment features on the driver assistance, operation and connectivity fronts.

The Paris Motor Show will provide the setting for the show premiere of the new BMW Z4 in October 2018. The worldwide market introduction will then commence in March 2019.

The new BMW 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 13mm 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 (+ 98 mm) and 1,616mm at the rear (+ 57 mm).

The new BMW Z4 will be built at the BMW Group’s Austrian manufacturing partner, Magna Steyr Fahrzeugtechnik in Graz. Production will take place on an assembly line installed and operated to the BMW Group’s strict standards.

Exterior design

A powerfully sculpted front apron with large air intakes, a low, broad BMW kidney grille and headlights positioned at the outer edges ensure there is no mistaking the car from the front. The new-look mesh-design BMW kidney grille combines a track-inspired honeycomb pattern with a three-dimensional structure, whose elements have a vertical arrangement reminiscent of traditional kidney grille bars.

The headlight units are another first, with the two light sources positioned one above the other for the first time. The vertical design is intercepted at the top by a diagonal accent strip with integral direction indicator.

The new BMW Z4 is equipped with LED headlights as standard, while the optional Adaptive LED headlights add a matrix function for the non-dazzling high beam and cornering lights.

The elongated bonnet with arrow-shaped contour lines directed at the kidney grille straddles the wheel arches in the “clamshell” style characteristic of classical sports cars. The joins at the bonnet’s sides merge into the flanks’ upper character line, which runs back to the tail lights. A second character line emerges from the large Air Breathers behind the front wheel arches. The spoiler and the slender, horizontally arranged light assemblies in the brand’s customary L-shape help to give the tail of the new BMW Z4 a wide, sporty appearance.

Scope for individuality: nine body and two soft-top colours.

There is a choice of one non-metallic and eight metallic shades for the car’s exterior paintwork. The soft-top roof comes in Black as standard and Anthracite with silver effect as an option. It is electrically operated and can be opened or closed in the space of ten seconds, even while travelling at speeds up to 31mph.

There will be two trim levels for the BMW Z4 in Ireland, Sport and M Sport in addition to the M Performance model. The Sport model features design elements in High-gloss Black on the front crossbar and the rear apron’s insert, along with 18-inch light-alloy wheels.

The highlights of the M Sport model, meanwhile, include a three section air intake for the front apron, prominent side skirt contouring, a rear apron with highly distinctive side surrounds and 18-inch M light-alloy wheels.

The new BMW Z4 M40i has a particularly sporty character with a Cerium Grey finish for the surround and front face of the mesh-design BMW kidney grille, the exterior mirror caps and other design features, plus trapezoidal exhaust tailpipes.

Interior: keen driver focus and an aura of class.

The cabin of the new BMW Z4 has been improved to reflect the new driving dynamics and comfort from within the car. Electroplated detailing complements to the roadster’s ambience, while the clearly structured arrangement of the controls focuses the attention even more on the driving experience.

Both driver and passenger settle into model-specific sports seats with integral head restraints.  The BMW Z4 is upholstered in Vernasca leather as standard on all models and comes in a choice of four colours (Black, Magma Red, Ivory White or Cognac).  Heated seats are also fitted to all BMW Z4s for the ultimate open-top driving comfort. 

The optional wind deflector fits flush between the fixed rollover bars.  The storage space behind the seats, the cup holders under the centre armrest and the large door pockets add further practical features. Boot capacity is 281 litres whether the soft-top is open or closed – an increase of more than 50 per cent compared to the outgoing model.

BMW M Performance model with straight-six engine.

Powering the new Z4 will be a choice of BMW's latest turbocharged petrol engines.

The new BMW Z4 M40i features a straight-six unit with M Performance TwinPower Turbo technology. Its standout features 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. Drivers have a maximum output of 340hp at their disposal, plus 500Nm of peak torque.

Variable sport steering comes as standard on all model variants, while the electronically controlled dampers, M Sport brakes and electronically controlled M Sport rear differential fitted as standard to the BMW Z4 M40i make the car even nimbler on the road.

The new BMW Z4 M40i can sprint from zero to 100km/h in 4.6 seconds and has a combined fuel consumption of 7.29l per 100km, equating to CO2 emissions of 165g/km*. The straight six engine now runs more cleanly, too, thanks to a system of emission control that comprises an enlarged, close-coupled catalytic converter and a gasoline particulate filter, and enables the new Z4 M40i to meet the extremely stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard.

More power with lower emissions – the new four-cylinder engines.

The choice of engines for the new BMW Z4 is rounded off by a pair of new four-cylinder units. Both have a capacity of 2.0 litres and likewise set new standards in terms of power delivery, efficiency and emissions. The output of both engines has been increased by 13hp over their predecessors.

The engine under the bonnet of the new BMW Z4 sDrive30i delivers its maximum output of 258hp, while peak torque of 400Nm is available. The result is a zero to 100km/h sprint time of 5.4 seconds. Combined fuel consumption of 5.9l / 100 km and CO2 emissions of 138g/km* is proof of the model’s outstanding efficiency.

The maximum output of 197hp developed by the new BMW Z4 sDrive20i between 4,500 and 6,500rpm and peak torque propels the car to 100km/h from rest in 6.6 seconds. The new BMW Z4 sDrive20i burns an average of 5.9l / 100 km and produces CO2 emissions of 138g/km*.

Start of sales and pricing for the new BMW Z4 will commence on 9th October 2018 with a market launch from March 2019.

Eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with optimised efficiency.

All model variants of the new BMW Z4 come equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission as standard. Besides a wider ratio spread, the latest version of the automatic transmission also offers even sportier gear shifts.

The transmission also features a Launch Control function for accelerating hard from a standing start with optimised traction. The eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission fitted in the BMW Z4 M40i has been configured with M specific shift characteristics very much in tune with the straight-six engine’s power delivery.

Start of sales and pricing for the new BMW Z4 will commence on 9th October 2018 with a market launch from March 2019.

Eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission with optimised efficiency.

All model variants of the new BMW Z4 come equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission as standard. Besides a wider ratio spread, the latest version of the automatic transmission also offers even sportier gear shifts.

The transmission also features a Launch Control function for accelerating hard from a standing start with optimised traction. The eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission fitted in the BMW Z4 M40i has been configured with M specific shift characteristics very much in tune with the straight-six engine’s power delivery.

New chassis design enhances both agility and comfort.

The chassis technology in the new BMW Z4 comprises a newly designed double-joint spring strut axle at the front and a five-link rear axle making its debut in a BMW roadster. This combination strikes just the right balance between sportiness and ride comfort. The front axle subframe and control arm mountings are extremely rigid, which lends itself to precise cornering characteristics and has a beneficial effect on the drivetrain’s acoustics. The sports car tuning of the front axle elastokinematics aids the new Z4’s steering precision at the same time as making its lateral handling characteristics more dynamic. Fitting aluminium control arms and swivel bearings has reduced unsprung masses, resulting in superior agility and efficiency.

The new rear axle likewise employs a lightweight aluminium/steel design that saves weight. The large supporting base and very rigid structure of the rear axle subframe as well as the shear panels used for connecting it to the body result in extremely precise wheel guidance. All of which makes it possible to blend agile handling with a high level of ride comfort.

The car’s impressively sporty handling characteristics are further aided by a powerful lightweight braking system and the Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) system, whose wealth of features includes the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC), Dynamic Brake Control (DBC) and Start-Off Assistant.

The Performance Control function also included as standard gives the new BMW Z4 even nimbler handling by varying the distribution of drive torque to the rear wheels according to the situation at hand.

M Sport differential, Adaptive M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes and high-performance tyres.

The Adaptive M Sport suspension, M Sport brakes and M Sport differential (all part of standard specification for the new BMW Z4 M40i, together with high-performance tyres) elevate the car’s sporty handling abilities to even greater heights. With these chassis systems on board, the differences in the car’s responses when moving between the COMFORT, SPORT and SPORT+ modes with the Driving Experience Control switch are particularly noticeable.

As well as lowering the car’s ride height by ten millimetres, the Adaptive M Sport suspension also adds electronically controlled dampers, whose operating characteristics can assume a more comfortable or more dynamic bias depending on the mode selected with the Driving Experience Control switch.

The electronically controlled M Sport rear differential gives the handling of the new BMW Z4 an even sharper sporting edge. An electric motor generates a locking effect that limits speed equalisation between the inside and outside rear wheel when cornering, making it possible to power out of bends with remarkable dynamic verve.

The active differential lock also gives the car greater assurance when darting through corners, and aids ride comfort and traction, too. The variable distribution of drive torque between the left and right-hand rear wheels nips any understeer or oversteer in the bud without the need to brake.

Innovations to enhance driving pleasure, comfort and safety.

The options list contains all sorts of different ways to customise the new BMW Z4 so that it reflects the owner’s personal style. The list of options includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, the Lane Change and Lane Departure Warning systems, as well as a Parking Assistant including Reversing Assistant. The new BMW Z4 is also the first roadster to be made available (as an option) with the BMW Head-Up Display.

Safety can be given a further boost by opting for the Adaptive LED headlights, whose pioneering matrix technology for the high beam allows range to be increased while preventing other road users from being dazzled. The high beam is divided into four LED segments, which can be activated and deactivated independently of one another as the traffic situation demands, and when travelling at speeds above 44mph. The instant the front mounted camera on the new BMW Z4 detects an oncoming vehicle or a vehicle in front, low beam only will be used to illuminate the area around the vehicle. The other features of the Adaptive LED headlights include the adaptive and cornering light functions, which use an additional LED module. Finally, the low-beam range is increased in motorway driving to optimise illumination of the road ahead.

With the optional Comfort Access feature fitted, the soft-top can be operated using the car key. The ambient lighting, fitted as standard, brings a particularly atmospheric mood to the cabin. LED fibre-optic guides light up the instrument panel’s accent strips on either side of the steering wheel and provide indirect illumination of the centre console’s edging, accentuating the areas of the cockpit of most importance for focused driving. The colour and brightness of the lighting effect are adjusted in the iDrive menu.

The BMW Z4 is fitted as standard with an advanced hi-fi speaker system which includes a total of ten speakers and output of 205 watts. For an even more impressive aural experience, there is the Harman Kardon surround sound system complete with digital amplifier, 12 speakers and 464-watt total output.

The new BMW Z4 comes as standard with bespoke M Sport seats including integral head restraints. The seat rails have been extended in length by 23 millimetres over those in the predecessor model, allowing the seats to be adjusted to the ideal fore/aft position. Electric seat adjustment with memory function is optionally available for both seats (standard on M40i), allowing their fore/aft position, height and tilt as well as the backrest angle to be altered and stored using a control pad on the outer edge of the seat cushion. The M sports seats also include electro-pneumatic backrest width adjustment to optimise lateral support through high-speed corners.

The practicality of the new BMW Z4 has been increased by features such as a storage space behind the seats with a retaining net, large cupholders under the centre armrest cover (which folds open in two sections with a longitudinal split) and roomy door pockets.

The boot capacity is 281 litres (with the softtop open or closed), an increase of more than 50 per cent compared to the previous Z4. An optional through-loading system extends the possibilities for handling various transportation tasks during everyday use and when going away on trips.

Innovative systems to help drivers stay in lane, park and reverse.

The highly advanced nature of the new BMW Z4 is further underlined by the class-leading variety of driver assistance systems on offer. Collision Warning and the Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function come as standard, as does the Lane Departure Warning system.

The list of options includes Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function, the Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display, distance information, the Lane Change Warning System, plus Rear Collision Prevention and Cross-Traffic Alert.  These functions can be purchased together in a Driving Assistant Package.

Elsewhere, the BMW Head-Up Display, which projects driving-related information onto the windscreen and therefore straight into the driver’s field of view, is available for a roadster for the first time. The only system of its kind in this segment, it shows the driver the car’s speed in figures, along with status indicators from the driver assistance systems, route guidance instructions and lane recommendations from the navigation system, Check Control messages, and in-car entertainment details, such as the radio station or track title. Full­ colour graphics are used to convey the relevant information.

Active Park Distance Control and the rear view camera come to the driver’s aid when manoeuvring or parking. These two systems both form part of the Parking Assistant, which takes care of steering, accelerating, braking and selecting gears during parking manoeuvres, and includes a reversing camera. The range of functions also includes the Reversing Assistant, which offers the highly convenient option of automated reversing in situations where there is little margin for error or the driver does not have a clear view. To do this, the system stores the steering movements for the section of road the car has just driven forward along. It then traces these last forward movements when reversing and keeps the car on exactly the same path for a distance of up to 50 metres. All the driver has to do is operate the accelerator and brake pedals and keep an eye on the area around the car.

The BMW Live Cockpit Professional offered as standard for the new BMW Z4 brings a new display & operating system and the ultimate in connectivity together into a superb all-round package. Its ensemble of fully digital displays consists of a high-resolution instrument cluster behind the steering wheel and the Control Display in the centre console, each of which has a screen diagonal of 10.25-inches. The BMW Live Cockpit Professional also features an adaptive navigation system, a hard-drive-based multimedia system, two USB ports, plus Bluetooth and WiFi interfaces.

The inclusion of the BMW Live Cockpit Professional means that the car benefits from the most recent incarnation of the display & operating system, powered by the brand new BMW Operating System 7.0. Its displays are fully digital and geared even more closely to the driver’s personal needs so as to optimise attention levels. The main menu of the Control Display allows the driver to configure up to ten pages, each showing two to four pads (tiles) with live content. Both the content and the visuals are personalised to an even greater degree, as illustrated by vehicle graphics that match the actual model colour and equipment line. The Control Display graphics adapt depending on the operating method, and the voice control system based on natural language understanding also reaches new heights.

Always up to date thanks to Remote Software Upgrade.

The Remote Software Upgrade feature keeps the new BMW Z4 up to date with the latest software. All updates will occur over the air, either via the BMW Connected app on a smartphone or directly into the car using its built-in SIM card. Installation is every bit as simple as a smartphone update. The contents of the upgrades vary, from security and quality enhancements to new software services and improved vehicle functions.

Connected Navigation with new digital services.

“Connected Navigation” encompasses a number of digital services designed to turn seamless and contextual route planning both inside and outside the BMW into an even more sophisticated experience. In future, drivers of the new BMW Z4 will be able to send destinations from various apps straight to their car’s navigation system. The most important destinations will be stored in BMW Connected and synchronised with the car, so that key addresses can be accessed from any device at any time. One particularly helpful new feature is the Parking Space Assistant, which proposes various parking options to the driver in good time before the destination is reached. This service includes providing information on the nearest multi-storey car park as well as proposing routes offering a particularly good chance of finding a parking spot close to the destination. The existing On-Street Parking Information and ParkNow services have been intelligently incorporated into the new assistant’s range of functions.

BMW Digital Key: turning a smartphone into a car key.

As part of the Comfort Access option, the BMW Digital Key employs Near Field Communication (NFC) technology to allow the new BMW Z4 to be locked and unlocked from a smartphone, dispensing with the need for a conventional car key. The smartphone simply has to be held up to the door handle to open the vehicle and, once inside, the engine can be started as soon as it has been placed in the Wireless Charging or smartphone tray. Accessible via the BMW Connected app, the Digital Key offers unrivalled flexibility, as the driver can share it with up to five other people. The BMW Digital Key is available for all NFC-capable Samsung smartphones.

-Ends-

The BMW Group

With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.

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BMW has a long and illustrious history of building two seat sports cars and now, more than 80 years since the first BMW roadster went on sale, the latest has been unveiled, the BMW Z4 M40i First Edition.

Based on the BMW Concept Z4 presented at Concours d’Elegance 2017 in Pebble Beach, the new edition of the roadster inspires not only with the agility, precision and dynamic handling characteristics that are typical of BMW M Performance models, but also with particularly sophisticated design and equipment features, including a body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic.

The central sitting position for the driver, the low centre of gravity, perfectly balanced 50:50 axle load distribution, wide tracks and a compact wheelbase form the ideal prerequisites for a dynamic drive.

The BMW Z4 M40i First Edition comes with a powerful 340hp, straight six-cylinder engine and a sports suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Sport braking system and an electronically controlled M Sport differential in the rear axle transmission. The BMW M Performance automobile takes a mere 4.6 seconds to sprint from a standstill to 10km/h.

Vertically aligned headlights, the BMW kidney grille sporting a mesh design, the bonnet stretching sports car-like over the wheels, large air breathers on the front wheel arches and the distinctive spoiler integrated into the rear lid all contribute towards the characteristic look of the new BMW Z4. The design of the interior also places the focus on the sportiness of the new BMW Z4. Forward-oriented lines underscore the driver-oriented cockpit styling. Likewise, the clearly structured arrangement of all control elements enhances the focus on the driving experience inside the new BMW Z4.

Moreover, for a perfect start into a new roadster era, the new BMW Z4 M40i First Edition offers specific design and equipment features that add exclusive accents to the car’s sporty flair. The expressive body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic is combined with an electrically operated textile soft top in anthracite with silver effect, the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, black exterior mirror caps and 19-inch light alloy wheels boasting a bicolour, double spoke design.

The interior of the edition model comprises the Vernasca black leather trim with decorative stitching, electrically adjustable seats with memory function, the option ambient light and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix function for the high beam, BMW Head-Up Display featured for the first time in a roadster and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional offering the latest networking technology underpin the advanced status the tradition-steeped concept of a two-seater, open-top sports car has reached with the new BMW Z4.

The world premiere of the BMW Z4 M40i First Edition in Pebble Beach is a taster of the forthcoming on-road debut of the new roadster generation. BMW will announce all details of further engine variants, technical innovations and the diverse equipment features of the two-seater on 19 September 2018. This will be followed a short time later by the trade fair premiere of the new BMW Z4 at the Mondial de l’Automobile (4 – 14 October 2018) in Paris. The worldwide market launch will commence in the spring of 2019.

Full technical details and information on the rest of the BMW Z4 range will follow on 19 September, 2018.

                                                                                Ends

The BMW Group
With its four brands BMW, MINI, Rolls-Royce and BMW Motorrad, the BMW Group is the world’s leading premium manufacturer of automobiles and motorcycles and also provides premium financial and mobility services. The BMW Group production network comprises 30 production and assembly facilities in 14 countries; the company has a global sales network in more than 140 countries.

In 2017, the BMW Group sold over 2,463,500 passenger vehicles and more than 164,000 motorcycles worldwide. The profit before tax in the financial year 2017 was € 10.655 billion on revenues amounting to € 98.678 billion. As of 31 December 2017, the BMW Group had a workforce of 129,932 employees.

The success of the BMW Group has always been based on long-term thinking and responsible action. The company has therefore established ecological and social sustainability throughout the value chain, comprehensive product responsibility and a clear commitment to conserving resources as an integral part of its strategy.