In Pictures: All-new BMW Z4 gets exterior design facelift

BMW have breathed new life into their popular Z4 roadster – updating the exterior to include exciting new design elements. Available in two versions – the sDrive 20i and the six-cylinder in-line Z4 M40i – the brand has increased this sportscar’s standard equipment, and expanded its range of add-on options.

A wide variety of exterior paint finishes that includes three brand-new variants, along with upgraded wheel and light options, all provide the opportunity for patrons to customise this already aesthetically pleasing vehicle.

All these new features have been designed to highlight the sporty nature of the BMW Z4, and to build on the global success of this renowned carmaker’s rich sports car history.

BMW Z4: Exterior design

The BMW Z4’s two-door exterior design is a contemporary take on the traditional open-top sports car. Displaying athletic proportions and aerodynamic surfaces, this roadster’s external design elements exude a sense of high-end style and powerful performance.

The freshly designed BMW kidney grille now features a new hexagonal pattern and is flanked by large air intakes and vertically situated LED headlights – located on the upper outer edges. On the options list is the M lights Shadow Line, that can be ordered together with the optional Adaptive LED Headlights.

The M Sport trim level is now the entry point model for the Z4 range, and features a three-section air intake in the front apron. The flowing character lines of this BMW’s flanks contribute further to the Z4’s sporty demeanour, as do the prominent side-sills, and reimagined rear apron. Directing the oncoming air into the air curtains are the remodelled side air intakes, that reduce turbulence in the sizy wheel arches. 19-inch M light-alloy wheels with V-spoke design – exclusively created for the Z4 – are now available and come in a Jett Black Matt finish with diamond polished rim edges.

The BMW Z4 M40i’s updated exterior also includes Cerium Grey exterior mirror caps and optional trapezoidal tailpipe trims for the exhaust system. Sleek L-shaped taillights, a distinctive diffuser element and an integrated boot-lid spoiler further emphasise the on-road intentions of this robust roadster.

The classic fabric soft-top is electrically operated and takes only 10 seconds to be opened or closed. This is achieved through the mere touch of a button and can be operated at speeds of up to 31 mph.

BMW Z4: Engine line-up and performance

Three potent petrol engine options are now available for the BMW Z4, all of which deliver a powerful and efficient performance.

The four-cylinder engine of the BMW Z4 sDrive 20i is coupled with an eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission and can be controlled through shift paddles on the steering wheel. Additionally, the accompanying Launch Control function maximises traction during initial acceleration.

The range-topping BMW Z4 M40i is powered by a six-cylinder, 3.0-litre, TwinPower Turbo petrol engine that delivers 340 hp and 500 Nm of torque. This combination enables the M40i to surge from 0 – 62 mph in an impressive 4.5 seconds.

Alternatively, the four-cylinder, 2.0-litre, TwinPower Turbo engine offers a maximum output of 197 hp and a peak torque of 320 Nm. This translates to a respectable 0 – 62 mph time of 6.6 seconds.

Variable sport steering is now equipped as standard for all Z4 models as is the M Sport suspension. The M40i however, now features adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers, an M Sport differential at the rear axle, along with responsive M Sport brakes.

BMW Z4: Tech and connectivity

BMW has equipped the Z4 with a host of state-of-the-art driver assistance systems, along with intelligent connectivity.

Standard assistance systems of the updated Z4 include Lane Departure Warning featuring lane return, Front Collision Warning with brake intervention, and the Speed Limit Info function with no-overtaking indicator.

BMW have provided an extensive assistance features option list, that includes Lane Changing Warning, Rear Collision Warning, Cross Traffic Warning, Active Cruise Control with Stop/Go function, Parking Assistant, and a Reversing Assist Camera. Furthermore, the optional BMW Head-Up Display projects relevant information onto the windscreen, allowing the driver to stay focussed on the road ahead.

The Z4 also features the BMW Live Cockpit Professional – a system that enables intelligent connectivity and intuitive operation. Both the control display and fully digital instrument cluster are operated through 10.25-inch (diagonal) screens. This system features BMW Intelligent Personal Assist, BMW Maps, a hard-drive based multimedia system and smartphone integration. A Wi-fi hotspot and an alarm system are also included in the setup.

BMW Z4: New colour palate

BMW have previously provided an array of exterior colour finishes for the Z4, however, accompanying the roadster’s fresh exterior design boost are three new body colour options. These include Portimao Blue metallic, Skyscrapper Grey metallic, and Thundernight metallic. The extended selection also includes four further new variants – including the matt BMW Individual paint finish, Frozen Grey metallic.

The fabric of the Z4’s soft-top will be available in both Anthracite Silver and standard black.

The top-of-the-line M40i model’s standard M Sport brakes come with a choice of blue or red-painted callipers.

Interior wise, the standard Vernasca leather of the sDrive 20i is available in Black, Cognac, Ivory White and Magma Red.