BMW Z4

The Story
Yes, the Z4 is the successor to the popular BMW Roadster, the Z3. But there is more, much more, to the Z4's debut than just "successor replaces predecessor." Discover why the new Z4 roadster takes BMW and the roadster segment to another level.

Interior
The Z4's cockpit delivers a modern design, offering many new features and materials. There are expanded functions, greater convenience and more comfort; many of the features, both standard and optional, are making their first appearance in a BMW roadster.

Brakes, Wheels and Tires
Every Z4 comes standard with BMW's Run-Flat Combination (RFC) wheel-tire system, an important step forward in personal safety, convenience and in-vehicle space utilization. Each Z4 model offers an upgrade as part of its optional Sport Package. All wheel designs are new; all tires are performance-type.

Engine
Smooth and powerful 6-cylinder engines. In a sea of V-6 engines, BMW swims almost solo with its unusual - but in BMW's opinion superior - inline-6 configuration. Two versions of this power plant power the two Z4 models; 2.5 and 3.0 liter 6-cylinder engines.

Transmission
While the 2.5i model's standard transmission is a 5-speed manual, standard in the 3.0i is a brand-new 6-speed unit. Available for both models is the 5-speed STEPTRONIC unit that has garnered repeated praise from auto critics. Sequential Manual Gearbox is optional.

Suspension
Expect the Z4 to raise everyone's expectations of how a sports car should handle. Starting with a brand-new body/chassis structure, BMW chassis engineers evolved and adapted the basic 3 Series suspension concept into a sports-car platform that is almost literally glued to the road. Like all current U.S. BMW models, Z4s come standard with Dynamic Stability Control (DSC).

Technology
The Z4 also incorporates some impressive new technology, including; optimized smart airbags, active knee protection, new-technology side-impact sensors, passenger-airbag de-activation switch, rollover protection, and ISIS, the Intelligent Safety and Information System.

Safety
At the core of the Z4 safety concept is the all-new, ultra-strong roadster body. Within this protective shell, new safety systems, such as Active Knee Protection, form critical elements of the user interface between the Z4 body and its occupants.

Features
Like its predecessor, the Z4 offers manual and power roadster soft tops, the latter optional on both models. The top is completely new in design and function; both versions include many attractions.

Options
Not only is the Z4 a virtually all-new BMW roadster; it's option list offers exciting and numerous new ways to suit its owners' priorities and tastes. The extensive range of Packages, stand-alone options and BMW center-installed accessories makes it possible to enhance performance, handling, design appeal, luxury and convenience.

FOTO: BMW