Freshen up for latest Z4

BMW has unveiled its third generation Z4 sports model, adding a string of features and updating some specifications without any change to the pricing.

Charges to the two-variant Z4, which shares components with the Toyota Supra, are modest but BMW says makes it an even more compelling proposition and “underscore its spotting character.”

Highlights are the new exterior styling with three new metallic colours, different alloy wheel design, revised kidney grille and front apron and an expanded specification and equipment list.

BMW will launch the third generation early next year with unchanged pricing starting with the Z4 sDrive18i at $90,900 plus on-road costs and Z4 M40i performance roadster at $133,900 plus ORCs.

The car-maker said that the styling package had been developed for the new model, with a new kidney grille design showing horizontal slats and new front apron side air curtain intakes. 

“Both elements serve to deliver a fresh and dynamic look to the front end of the new BMW Z4, regardless of the variant,” it said.

Three new metallic exterior colours are also available, including M Portimao Blue, Thundernight and Skyscraper Grey.

“The striking new paint finishes are complemented by a new alloy wheel offering, the 19-inch M light V-spoke style 772 M Bicolour Jet Black matte with a diamond polished edge, providing an additional feeling of menace and sophistication to the BMW Z4’s aesthetic,” BMW said in a statement.

“The revised M Sport Plus package now integrates M Lights Shadow Line, which replaces chrome touches for the headlight element surrounds with black.

“Enhancements for the 2023 BMW Z4 add flourish to a model recognised for bringing the traditional roadster experience to the modern era with a combination of powerful and responsive engines, rear-wheel-drive, a classic fabric soft-top roof, sharp dynamics and a premium cabin ambience.”

BMW will offer packages to option both variants. The M Sport Plus package costs $3500 for the Z4 sDrive20i and $2500 for the Z4 M40i.

For the sDive20i, the package comprises 19-inch M light alloy wheels double-spoke style 799 M bicolour; M Sport brakes in blue or red; tyre pressure Indicator; adaptive M suspension; M seat belts; M high-gloss shadow line with extended contents including gill frame and tailpipe trim.

An alternative price for the package of $4000 includes all these items but adds a choice of two different 19-inch alloy wheels.

The M40i package costs $2500 and adds tyre pressure monitor, M seat belts, M high-gloss shadow line and an expanded list of parts finished in high-gloss paint. Many of the features in the sDrive20i package are already standard in the M40i.

The sDrive20i is also available with a “Precision Package” that costs $3600 extra and includes heated steering wheel, lumbar support for driver and passenger; ambient lighting; adaptive LED headlights and Harman Kardon surround sound system.

The sDrive20i is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine rated at 145kW/320Nm with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It sprints to 100km/h in 6.6 seconds.

The M40i has a 285kW/500Nm 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine and covers the 0-100km/h sprint in 4.1 seconds.

BMW has sold 74 examples of the Z4 this year ending September 30, up 60.9 per cent on the same time in 2021.