At long last, BMW took the veil off the Z4. Codenamed G29 and twinned with the 2019 Toyota Supra (J29), the newcomer presented under the Californian sun is the Z4 M40i First Edition.
Teased hours before the reveal by means of three design sketches, the First Edition “inspires not only with the agility, precision and dynamic handling characteristics that are so typical of BMW M Performance models, but also with particularly sophisticated design and equipment features, including a body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic.” Laugh all you want, but that’s how BMW talks when it comes down to describing an all-new model of this magnitude.
Did you notice the line that goes like “BMW M Performance models” in the quoted block of text from the press release? That’s another way of saying the Z4 M won’t come back for this generation of the Bavarian roadster. It isn’t known why BMW refrained from developing an even more hoonable specification than the M40i, but then again, we’re certain the bean counters had something to do with this decision.
The First Edition in M40i flavor packs 340 horsepower (250 kW) from a turbocharged inline-six engine, translating to 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph). M Sport braking system, an electronically controlled M Sport differential for the rear axle-mounted transmission, and performance-oriented tires are all standard.
With 50:50 weight distribution, the Z4 M40i First Edition should be great to drive on a winding road. The wide track, compact wheelbase, and low center of gravity help in this regard. According to BMW, this powertrain averages 7.1 to 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers on the combined driving cycle, translating to 162 to 168 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
Standard features also include the 19-inch alloy wheels boasting a double spoke design, Vernasca black leather upholstery, Harman Kardon surround sound system, and electrically adjustable seats with memory for both the driver and passenger. BMW Live Cockpit Professional, adaptive LED headlights with matrix function for the high beam, and a full-color head-up display are also included.
The on-road debut of the 2019 BMW Z4 is scheduled for September 19th, when BMW will deliver more information on the rest of the lineup. “This will be followed a short time later by the trade fair premiere of the new BMW Z4 at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris." As for the market launch of the newcomer, look forward to the spring of 2019.
Did you notice the line that goes like “BMW M Performance models” in the quoted block of text from the press release? That’s another way of saying the Z4 M won’t come back for this generation of the Bavarian roadster. It isn’t known why BMW refrained from developing an even more hoonable specification than the M40i, but then again, we’re certain the bean counters had something to do with this decision.
The First Edition in M40i flavor packs 340 horsepower (250 kW) from a turbocharged inline-six engine, translating to 4.6 seconds to 100 km/h (62 mph). M Sport braking system, an electronically controlled M Sport differential for the rear axle-mounted transmission, and performance-oriented tires are all standard.
With 50:50 weight distribution, the Z4 M40i First Edition should be great to drive on a winding road. The wide track, compact wheelbase, and low center of gravity help in this regard. According to BMW, this powertrain averages 7.1 to 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers on the combined driving cycle, translating to 162 to 168 grams of CO2 per kilometer.
Standard features also include the 19-inch alloy wheels boasting a double spoke design, Vernasca black leather upholstery, Harman Kardon surround sound system, and electrically adjustable seats with memory for both the driver and passenger. BMW Live Cockpit Professional, adaptive LED headlights with matrix function for the high beam, and a full-color head-up display are also included.
The on-road debut of the 2019 BMW Z4 is scheduled for September 19th, when BMW will deliver more information on the rest of the lineup. “This will be followed a short time later by the trade fair premiere of the new BMW Z4 at the Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris." As for the market launch of the newcomer, look forward to the spring of 2019.