BMW Unveils New Z4 Roadster at Melbourne Motor Show

MELBOURNE, Australia - February 23, 2009: The all-new BMW Z4 Roadster will make its Australian debut at the Melbourne International Motor Show on 27 February, 2009, with deliveries to customers commencing in May.

For the first time, BMW presents a Z4 Roadster powered by a twin turbo-charged straight six-cylinder engine and equipped with a retractable hardtop.

In keeping with BMW innovation, the new Roadster offers BMW EfficientDynamics fuel saving and emissions reduction technology, including High Precision injection, in the twin turbo Z4 sDrive35i show car. The elegant, eye-catching body design is instantly recognisable as a BMW sportscar.

The show-stopping BMW Z4 is powered by a twin turbo 3.0-litre producing 225 kW of power, and 400 Nm of torque at just 1,300 rpm. Acceleration is a brisk 5.1 seconds for the 0-100 km/h sprint thanks to the fitment of the optional seven-speed sports automatic with double clutch transmission. The new BMW Z4 sDrive35i consumes just 9.4-litres per 100 km when equipped with this state-of the art gearbox.

Dynamic Drive Control is fitted as standard which allows the driver to select drive train characteristics NORMAL, SPORT or SPORT+ for more responsive throttle mapping, engine, steering and gearshift settings. The show car is additionally fitted with Adaptive M Suspension (which lowers the ride height by 10 mm) and offers electronically adjustable dampers. Optional BMW 19-inch V-spoke style 296 light alloy wheels are also fitted.

The two-piece electrohydraulically retractable top folds or rises in just 20 seconds and the boot swallows 310 litres of luggage (roof up). A through-loading system with integrated transport bag further enhances luggage storage flexibility. The larger cockpit increases comfort for occupants while the typically low, set back driving position ensures an extremely dynamic feeling.

As befits a BMW Roadster, the new BMW Z4 comes with the latest technology and convenience features including the latest generation iDrive (optional) for the first time in this type of car. A roll-over protection system is stowed behind the seats.

The Space Grey show car is equipped with Exclusive Nappa leather finished in Ivory White. The ‘Character Package Design Pure White’ option brings Exclusive Nappa leather Ivory white, leather covers for the door inserts, dash-top, centre console armrests, and sun visors as well as the heated, power-adjustable Sport seats. All Z4 models will feature unique BMW Sun Reflective Technology that reduces heat build-up in the seat upholstery. The new BMW Z4 is produced at the Regensburg, Germany factory.