BMW Z4 - First impression

It was only recently, that is, on 23rd July 2019, that BMW Malaysia launched the G29 Z4. The drop-top was first spotted on our shores during the launch event of the G20 BMW 3 Series, and then it visited us during the BMW M Track Day. Now that we have it fully to ourselves, we can enjoy it as much as we want. Since its launch, the Z4 has been among the top contenders in the segment. Prior to its arrival, BMW Malaysia opened its pre-bookings and Z4 is creating a storm in the auto industry ever since.

The Malaysian-spec model of the new BMW Z4 is available in sole variant option, called the sDrive30i in M Sport trim. This very Z4 will set you back by RM 479,000. In the global market, the sDrive30i serves as the mid-spec variant and the Z4 comes in sDrive20i and M40i trim as well. Only time will tell if BMW adds them to the Z4 local lineup or not. As of now, we have the Z4 sDrive30i M Sport in flesh, let’s have a close look at the new bad boy in town and try to find out what makes BMW’s latest roadster unique. Here is our first impression of the new Z4.

Exterior

We must give a big thumbs up to BMW for the fantastic exterior layout on the new Z4. At the front, the car gets mesh design kidney grille that undoubtedly contributes to its dynamic appearance. Under the M Sport kit, the grille is made of matt aluminium with a chrome kidney frame. Another striking feature here is the air breather that together with the air curtain leads to targeted channeling of the airflow and significantly reduces air turbulence on the wheel arches, thus reducing drag. Blending harmoniously with the vehicles dynamic lines is the black softtop, which at a simple push of a button opens and closes electrically in around ten seconds while driving at a speed of up to 50 kmph. The soft top is made up of extremely high-quality material and comes with outstanding noise insulation properties. At the rear are the round high-gloss chrome exhaust tailpipes on both sides that enhance the car’s sporty appearance. Overall the exterior of the BMW Z4 conveys a relaxed, sporty feeling with individual aesthetics.

Other elements included are vertical headlight with Adaptive LED and matrix functions as optional, huge air intakes, 17-inch alloy wheels (19-inch optional units), wide rear tyres, slim L-shaped tail light, deeply-dressed rear reflectors, and rear fog lamps.

Interior

BMW has given the interior of the new Z4 an upmarket look and feel, thanks to the use of electroplated trim pieces. Things like the ambient light creates a very cosy and relaxed atmosphere in the cabin. It is available in six different colors and eleven prefixed light designs, with ambient and contour lighting on the centre console, instrument panel, and door trim. Next up, the car gets the outstanding Harman Kardon Surround Sound System that features 12-speakers, 7-channels, and 365-watt digital amplifier. The Z4s M sport deep and high seats come with headrest and backrest bolsters and offer both the driver and passenger improved support. These seats adjust to individual body dimensions, thanks to the integrated backrest adjustment.

Further, making life easier inside is the BMW 7.0 operating system that with its innovative operating concept makes operation simple via touchscreen, speech, and iDrive. The BMW Live Cockpit features a 5.7-inch digital display instrument cluster, a high-resolution 8.8-inch information color display, and touch function. Included are two additional USB ports, audio streaming, FM radio, and Bluetooth interface.

Also, included in the package are - wireless phone charging, M pedals, M door sill finishes, M exclusive floor mats, M leather steering, M Sport seats (driver and front passenger), two-zone automatic air conditioning, interior rear-view mirror with automatic anti-dazzle function, and wind deflector. Lastly, the car comes with what’s called BMW Digital Key that allows the driver to unlock/lock and operate the car with Android smartphones via NFC technology. Using the BMW Connected App, the Digital Key can be shared between five individuals.

Engine

 

Talking about the 2019 BMW Z4 specs, the car runs on a 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged mill that has been tuned to produce a max power of 255 PS at and generates a peak torque of 400 Nm at 1,500 to 4,400 rpm. This is the sole engine option available across the range. As far as the transmission is concerned, it comes with an 8--speed Steptronic Sport automatic unit. The Z4 can hit the 0 to 100 kmph mark in 5.4 seconds and has a top speed of 250 kmph.

Safety features

This is an area where BMW has done some really good work, the Z4 comes with standard safety gears like rearview camera, Active Park Distance control, Lane Departure Warning system, and Collision Warning and Pedestrian Warning with City Braking function. The optional list includes Speed Limit Info system with No Passing Info display, Rear Collision Prevention and Cross-Traffic Alert, Lane Change Warning System, and Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function.

The new 2019 BMW Z4 is available in 5 exterior colors - Misano Blue, Glacier Silver, San Francisco Red, Alpine White, and Black Sapphire.