This year's Z4 has been redesigned for 2009. The previous generation's creases have been smoothed out, and a newly redesigned rear end addresses the complaints about the previous generation's design. The biggest difference from last year is the absence of a cloth soft-top. BMW did away with the separate coupe and convertible and now only offers a power-folding hard top.
The 2009 BMW Z4 roadster is available in two trims, sDrive30i and sDrive35i. The 30i comes with a 3.0L inline-6-cylinder engine that makes 255 hp and 220 lb-feet of torque, while the 35i comes with a twin-turbocharged version of the same engine, making 300 hp and 300 lb-feet of torque. Both engines are mated to a 6-speed manual transmission, and a 6-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission with steering wheel shift paddles is optional.
The entire Z4's proportions have been enlarged somewhat, providing more room and therefore, more comfort for passengers. The 2009 Z4 is about 5 inches longer than last year's model. The new folding hard top and increased size added weight too, with the 2009 Z4 weighing in approximately 500 lbs heavier as well.
Standard equipment on the 30i includes 17" run-flat performance tires, xenon HID headlights with adaptive light control, rain-sensing wipers, a 10-speaker stereo that can play MP3s and includes 2 subwoofers. Leatherette seat trim comes as the standard interior fabric, but can be upgraded to one of four colors of leather. iDrive is available on the Z4 for the first time, and it controls the audio system, telephone as well as many other vehicle systems. Dynamic cruise control, remote keyless entry and various anti-theft systems are also included.
Opt for the Premium package on the 30i, and a universal garage door opener, automatically dimming rearview mirrors, power seats, and automatic climate control can be added for $3,900. The Sport package adds 18" wheels, an adaptive suspension with adjustable dampers, and sportier seats.
The sDrive35i not only gets the upgraded twin-turbo engine, but leather seats are included, as are automatic climate control and a brushed aluminum interior trim package.
Additional optional equipment on the 35i includes a navigation system with 9" display, ivory leather interior treatments and a premium audio system.
The BMW Z4 roadster has been completely redesigned for 2009. The new Z4 has been built around two new engines, and only as a convertible. No longer will the choice of convertible or coupe confound any potential buyer ? BMW's new folding hard top provides the best of both worlds. BMW's vehicle control system, iDrive, is now available for the first time in the Z4.
The new Z4 comes as a folding hard top only, which allows comfortable motoring, top up or down. Competing with the Porsche Cayman, Boxster and Audi TTS, the Z4 sDrive35i utilizes a twin-turbo engine that makes 300 hp and 300 lb-feet of torque across a wide rev range. That's more power than the TTS, and with its hatchback cargo setup, more practicality than the Boxster.
