Here it is – the war of the ‘Zs.’ This past weekend during episode 6 of Top Gear season 13, Jeremy Clarkson pinned the new 2009 Nissan 370Z (which we’re driving around right now) against the new 2010 BMW Z4.

Refresher:

2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35i:  Power comes from a 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 engine that makes a total of 306-hp. 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds when mated to a manual transmission and 5 seconds flat when mated to the new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters.
2009 Nissan 370Z: Power comes from a 3.7L VQ37VHR engine making 332-hp. Mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox that will allow for a 0 to 60 mph time in the low 4.7 seconds.

Wonder how fast The Stig lapped the Top Gear lap or which one Clarkson liked better? Make the jump for the video to find out.

- By: Omar Rana

We are just 2 days and 13 hours away from the launch of the BMW X6 M and the BMW X5 M. Nonetheless, BMW reminded us again today (via press release) that the new BMW X6 M will make its stateside debut at the 2009 New York Auto Show next week. Still no word on the X5 M.

While the BMW X6 M will be the highlight of BMW press event in New York, the 2009 BMW Z4, 2009 7-Series and the BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance models will also light up the German automaker’s Big Apple stage.

Also joining the X6 M will be the 2010 BMW 5-Series and the 2010 BMW 6-Series. Don’t get too excited since no major redesigns of the two models are expected (just minor facelifts). What they will get is the same Navigation system featured in the 2009 BMW 7 Series. The 2010 BMW 5-Series and 6-Series will also get access to the Google Maps points-of-interest database when equipped with BMW Assist.

Follow the jump for the press release for more details.

Press Release:

BMW X6 M MAKES WORLD DEBUT AT NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL AUTO SHOW. Z4 ROADSTER AND ALL-NEW 7 SERIES LEAD OTHER HIGHLIGHTS.

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – March 31, 2009… Finding new ways to expand the boundaries of what’s possible with existing designs is the singular purpose of the craftsmen at BMW M. The modern legacy of BMW M began in 1985 when engineers placed the race-bred engine from the M1 supercar into the BMW 5 Series sedan and created the first BMW M5. The M5 was a sedan with power, precision, and linear control never before imaginable. In New York, BMW M will introduce the next milestone in its illustrious history: the BMW X6 M. The X6 M will utilize several new engine, drivetrain, and suspension technologies to transform the world’s first Sports Activity Coupe into a BMW M product.

The BMW X6 M will share the spotlight at the New York International Auto Show with an array of models including the all-new Z4 Roadster and the fifth-generation of the flagship 7 Series. Other featured vehicles will be the Advanced Diesels and the freshly updated 2010 BMW 5 Series and 6 Series models

BMW Z4 Roadster

The all-new BMW Z4 offers the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with refined and stylish flair. With the roof down, this two-seater offers an intense experience of sunshine and wind – and driving with the hardtop closed provides the comfort of a premium, sporty coupe.

The design of the new Z4 features classic details with new, up-to-date style. It offers a unique combination of elegance, performance and comfort. The rigid aluminum shells of the two-piece hardtop completely open or close within 20 seconds. Even with the roof closed, the Z4 retains proportions typical of a genuine roadster.

The new BMW Z4 comes with either of two inline-6 engines displacing 3.0 liters: 300 horsepower in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 horsepower in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure outstanding acceleration and response.

BMW 7 Series

The all-new fifth generation of the BMW 7 Series radiates a natural presence, inherent sportiness and an elegance born of precision in concept and execution. A new V-8 engine with direct injection and twin turbochargers expresses BMW EfficientDynamics at the highest level of performance. The 4.4-liter, twin-turbo V-8 delivers 400 horsepower and 450lb-ft of torque. New, exclusive BMW driver-assistance systems and comfort-related features further add to a truly exceptional driving and riding experience.

Inside the new 7, the ambiance is luxurious, of transcendent quality and – most important of all – inviting. The driver-oriented control center features Black Panel technology. More functions than ever are conveniently accessible to the driver from the multi-function steering wheel.

BMW Advanced Diesel with BluePerformance

The BMW Advanced Diesel powered 335d and the X5 xDrive35d models feature a 50 State emission compliant version of BMW’s award winning sequential-turbo 3.0 liter Diesel engine – the first performance-oriented and efficient Advanced Diesel engine in BMW’s U.S. line.

The sequential-turbo 3.0 liter Diesel engine powering both models employs both a very small and a larger turbocharger combined with an innovative intake system enabling the engine to develop 265 horsepower. Even more impressive are the torque characteristics. Fully 80 percent of the torque is available from 1100 rpm to 4200 rpm. The peak torque is 425 lbs-ft at 1750 rpm – almost as much as BMW’s 6.0 liter V12. The performance is what the enthusiast would expect from a BMW. The 335d is capable of sprinting from 0 – 60 mph in six seconds flat. The X5 xDrive35d will do it in 6.9 seconds. No other diesels in the US will perform like this pair of BMW Advanced Diesel models.

Coupled with this performance potential is impressive fuel economy. The EPA mileage estimates for the 335d are 23 city and 36 highway. The X5 xDrive35d is rated at 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway. Thanks to BluePerformance technology, this unparalleled blend of performance and efficiency can only be found in a BMW Advanced Diesel.

2010 BMW 5 Series

The BMW 5 Series continues as the quintessential executive express for those with a passion for driving. Engine choices include two highly efficient inline-6 engines and a 4.8-liter V8. There is the choice of Sedan or Sports Wagon, BMW’s characteristic rear-wheel drive or the innovative xDrive all-wheel drive. All models are available with a 6-speed manual transmission or 6-speed automatic with e-shift.

For 2010, Navigation-equipped 5 Series models will benefit from the same Navigation system featured in the new BMW 7 Series. Additionally, for 2010, Navigation-equipped 5 Series models gain access to the Google Maps points-of-interest database when equipped with BMW Assist.

All 5 Series models now offer the availability of an M Sport Package, with components perfectly matched to the vehicle.

2010 BMW 6 Series

The 2010 BMW 6 Series, available in Coupe or Convertible, offers sporting, yet luxurious accommodations in the 2+2 format; sporty and elegant exterior design; strong, refined performance; an extra measure of sporty driving pleasure; and extensive standard equipment, encompassing outstanding luxury and convenience features. The 6 Series is powered by a muscular V-8 engine and some of BMW’s most advanced chassis technology, luxury and safety features.

For 2010, Navigation-equipped 6 Series models will benefit from the same Navigation system featured in the new BMW 7 Series. Additionally, for 2010, Navigation-equipped 6 Series models gain access to the Google Maps points-of-interest database when equipped with BMW Assist.

- By: Omar Rana

According to a report by iMotor, BMW has confirmed that it will not be building the next-generation version of the Z4M due to the global economic downturn and the significant drop in consumer demand.

“Given the current economic crisis there is no business case for a full-on M version of the Z4,” a BMW spokesman told iMotor. He said that the M versions of the X5 and X6 were signed off before demand fell in the auto industry.

For those of you that are depressed by this news and are looking for a faster version of the new Z4, BMW says it is working on an M Sport Package for the hardtop coupe/convertible roadster. It is also reported that BMW is working on an ECU upgrade that will allow the 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 to make an extra 20-hp for a total of 326-hp.

2009 BMW Z4:

- By: The Daily Auto Editor

Source: iMotor

BMW today held the world debut of the 2009 BMW Z4 at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Sales of the new hard-top Z4 will start in fall of 2009 with pricing to be announced closer to launch date.

The entry level 2009 Z4 is powered by a 3.0L 6-cylinder that makes 255-hp and a maximum torque of 220 lb-ft. 0 to 60 mph comes in at 5.6 seconds with manual transmission and 6.0 seconds with an automatic. The range-topping BMW Z4 carries a 3.0L twin-turbo making a total of 300-hp allowing it to go from rest to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds with a manual and 5.0 seconds with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.

The new 2009 BMW Z4 drops its top within 20 seconds with a touch of a button – just thought you’d like to know that.

Click through for the high-res image gallery.

2009 BMW Z4 – Live from the 2009 Detroit Auto Show:

2009 BMW Z4:

We saw the official reveal of the 2009 BMW Z4 this past weekend and we saw videos of the new hardtop roadster in action yesterday.

Today we bring you some new images of the 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35i – one of the two variants BMW will offer in the new Z4 lineup (the other variant is the 255-hp sDrive30i). The 2009 Z4 sDrive35i is powered by BMW’s outstanding 3.0L twin-turbo inline-6 engine that makes a total of 306-hp. That allows the Z4 to go from stop to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds when mated to a manual transmission and 5 seconds flat when mated to the new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters.

Follow the jump for the full-high res image gallery of the 2009 BMW Z4. Don’t be afraid to maximize the gallery to fully enjoy the pictures.

2009 BMW Z4:

Over the weekend, BMW revealed the 2009 Z4 prior to its world debut at the 2009 Detroit Auto Show next month. We have now posted videos of the new 2009 BMW Z4 in action along with videos of the exterior and interior details. The more we look at the new Z4 the more it makes us think that this is the real life Land Shark – Skeletor would be so happy.

The 2009 BMW Z4 hardtop roadster will be available in two variants including sDrive30i and sDrive35i. The 255-hp sDrive30i will go from 0 to 60 in 5.6 seconds with a manual transmission and 6.0 seconds with an automatic. The 300-hp sDrive35i goes from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds with a manual and 5.0 seconds with then new 7-speed dual-clutch automatic with paddle shifters.

Any other seconds you need to know about? Oh yes – the 2009 Z4 will drop its hardtop in 20 seconds.

Click through for the videos.

2009 BMW Z4 in Action:

2009 BMW Z4 Exterior:

2009 BMW Z4 Interior:

2009 BMW Z4:

• •  2009 BMW Z4 features lightweight two-piece retractable hardtop.
• •  sDrive30i produces 255-hp; sDrive35i produces 300-hp.
• •  Mated to 6-speed manual or an 7-speed dual-clutch automatic.
• •  sDrive35i does 0 to 60 mph in 5 seconds; top speed limited to 130 mph.

Here it is – after all the spy shots and leaks, the 2009 BMW Z4 has been unveiled prior to its 2009 North American International Auto Show debut next month in Detroit. The new 2009 BMW Z4 is more powerful, better looking and combines the roadster and a coupe variants into one model with a two-piece retractable hardtop that folds down in 20 seconds.

With the 2009 BMW Z4, the German automaker is also unveiling its new badging system. Following the whole xDrive theme, the new Z4 will come in a sDrive30i variant and a sDrive35i variant. Both will be available with a 6-speed manual or a dual-clutch 7-speed automatic with paddle shifters. The Z4 sDrive30i is also available with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

The 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is powered by a 3.0L inline 6-cylinder engine that makes 255-hp and a maximum torque of 220 lb-ft. 0 to 60 mph comes in at 5.6 seconds when mated to a manual transmission and 6.0 seconds when mated to the optional sport automatic. The 2009 Z4 sDrive35i is powered by the popular 3.0L twin-turbo making a total of 300-hp. It accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 5.1 seconds with a manual and 5.0 seconds with the 7-speed dual-clutch automatic. Both models can go up to an electronically limited 130 mph and 150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package. The Sport Package features Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control.

The M version of the new Z4 will make its debut next year. For now the 2009 BMW Z4 will be produced at the company’s Regensburg plant alongside the 3-Series and the BMW 1-Series. Sales will begin in the fall of 2009.

Click through for the high-res image gallery and the press release for more details.

2009 BMW Z4:

Press Release:

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – December 13, 6:00PM EST 2008… Poised to lead its market segment once again, the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debuts at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11.

Return of a Classic

The classic roadster is back – more powerful and more stylish than ever before. It is the BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions with a seating position moved close to the rear axle, rear-wheel drive, with a retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 offers all the driving pleasure of a BMW Roadster with particularly refined and stylish flair. Driving with the roof down, this two-seater offers a refreshingly intense experience of the sunshine and the wind rushing by – and driving with the hardtop closed it provides all the comfort of a sporting coupe in the premium segment. So through this diversity and wide range of qualities, the new BMW Z4 is the re-birth of the roadster.

The design of the new Z4 comes out through classic details interpreted in new, up-to-date style. This outstanding two-seater offers a unique combination of elegance, agility, and supreme comfort. The aluminum shells of the two-piece lightweight hardtop come to rest in the roof compartment, saving maximum space in the process. Even with the roof closed, the new Z4 retains the proportions typical of a genuine roadster.

To ensure driving pleasure, the new BMW Z4 is offered with two inline-6 engine displacing 3.0 liters: 300 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and 255 hp in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i ensure truly outstanding acceleration and response at all times.

Comprehensive use of BMW’s EfficientDynamics technologies serves to provide an unparalleled balance of driving pleasure and fuel efficiency. While both models are available with a manual six-speed gearbox, the Z4 sDrive35i is available also with a dual-clutch sport automatic transmission featuring seven gears. The six-speed sport automatic is available on the Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature steering wheel-mounted paddle shifters.

Featuring Dynamic Drive Control as standard, the BMW Z4 enables the driver to choose between three drivetrain and suspension settings at the touch of a button.

Design: the modern look of a classic roadster.

The new BMW Z4 takes on the classic look of the roadster in modern, flowing lines. The car’s proportions are borne out by the long and low-slung engine compartment lid, short overhangs, the long wheelbase and large wheels as well as the low seating position near the rear axle.

The front view features a large, upright BMW kidney grille, wide air intake and the dual round headlights, typical of the BMW brand. All surfaces and lines, including the character lines on the hood, strive towards an imaginary target point on the road ahead.

The side view is dominated by the dynamic flow of the car’s shoulder line connecting the front and rear wheel arches and accentuating the stretched, athletic look of the Roadster. The horizontal orientation of the car’s lines and surfaces at the rear, in turn, emphasizes the sheer width of the new BMW Z4. Further characteristics are the extra-large hood extending far over the wheel arches, the black A-pillars, the gills at the side with their integrated LED direction indicators, as well as the slender rear fixtures with three-dimensional LED-fed rows of light.

Stylish, sophisticated, and typical of a genuine roadster: the interior.

For harmonious unison of the exterior and interior so important in an open-air car, the shoulder line is reflected by the door panels with their unique configuration and flow from front to rear.

The contoured surface to the left and right of the steering wheel incorporates the controls for the lights and air conditioning. These elements are available trimmed in Satin Silver matte, Brushed Aluminum, and Ash Grain Wood, the respective color and trim variant also being used on the center console and door handle.

The standard seats with integrated headrests on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i feature high-quality Kansas leather in a choice of three colors. A fourth choice, Ivory White Nappa leather, is also available as part of the Exclusive Ivory White Leather Package, which includes sport seats and Anthracite wood trim.

An Extended Leather option (Z4 sDrive35i only) adds leather on the upper section of the instrument panel, the doorsills, the sun visors in Black leather as well as the leather-finish door closing handles in upholstery color on the passenger’s side.

The entire range of paintwork colors available on the new BMW Z4 is made up of no less than nine color tones including Orion Silver metallic exclusive to the new Roadster.

Cycling in 20 seconds: the retractable hardtop.

The new BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. This two-piece lightweight aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds. The compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor.

This innovative roof system offers outstanding acoustic and aerodynamic qualities and sets a new standard in the Z4’s segment. Large windows and the high-quality roof lining give the hardtop a light look. Driver and passenger enjoy a bright ambience, generous space, and optimum visibility. Compared with the former model, the side windows are 40% larger, the see-through area in the rear window 52% larger, and all-round visibility increased14% over the previous generation.

The glass rear window in the hardtop is equipped with an electric defroster and the four side windows of the new BMW Z4 may be lowered individually. The higher roofline and larger door openings allow easier and more convenient access with the roof closed.

The retractable roof may be operated either by a switch in the center console or by remote control key fob when equipped with optional Comfort Access. Comfort Access also allows convenient loading and unloading of the luggage compartment with the roof open. To provide access to the luggage compartment in this case, the open hardtop is moved to an interim position facilitating the removal of large objects.

Flexible storage with optional through-loading.

The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed.

The moveable partition in the new BMW Z4 is unique in the premium roadster segment, and offers enough luggage space with the hardtop open for a medium-sized hard-shell suitcase.

Using the optional through-loading system to the passenger compartment, the Z4 is able to accommodate a 46-inch full-size golf bag. When the roof is closed the luggage compartment easily accommodates up to four crates of large bottles or – when using the through-loading system – two 46-inch golf bags.

Various other storage compartments are designed into the interior. The new Z4 offers storage trays in the center console, a 10-liter glove box, hinged compartments in the doors, and additional space behind the seats.

Included with the Cold Weather Package is a storage package that provides an even wider range of storage and loading functions, with fastening nets on the rear panels of the seats and in the passenger’s footwell, lashing belts in the luggage compartment, as well as a storage box in the bulkhead leading to the luggage compartment.

Optional through-loading system together with a transport bag ensures even greater versatility, allowing the user to load slender items such as golf bags or two pairs of skis measuring up to 67″ in length.

A successful concept with a great tradition: inline-6 engines in the BMW Roadster.

Elegant roadster lines, the BMW kidney grille, and a inline-6 engine form a combination that, in 1934, made the BMW 315/1 an unprecedented success both on the road and in motorsport. That combination has been retained to this day in the BMW Z4.

The new Z4 is therefore being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. These unique engines exhibit refinement and fast-revving response typical of a BMW six-cylinder, offering an unparalleled balance of performance and fuel efficiency in the premium roadster segment thanks to the BMW EfficientDynamics engineering strategy. The individual versions of the new BMW Z4 come with on-demand management and control of the car’s accessory drives, a variable oil pump, intelligent lightweight technology, and optimized aerodynamics.

BMW Z4 sDrive35i: performance with efficiency thanks to Twin Turbo and High Precision Injection.

The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase.

The use of two turbochargers (each supplying three cylinders) ensures responsiveness never seen before on a turbocharged engine. The engine achieves peak torque of 300 lb-ft without the slightest delay, and maintains this high level of torque throughout a broad rev range from 1,400–5,000 rpm.

Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds (optional seven-speed double clutch sport automatic transmission in 5.0 seconds). The acceleration continues all the way to an electronically-limited 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

High Precision Injection is a key element in the Z4’s efficient performance. Injecting fuel directly into the combustion chamber offers a cooling effect allowing a higher compression ratio and optimized combustion efficiency. This second generation of direct gasoline injection developed by BMW ensures significant benefits in fuel efficiency without restricting the dynamic qualities of the engine.

The 6-cylinder normally aspirated engine: powerful and light thanks to magnesium.

Offering spontaneous power and performance, excellent motoring refinement and outstanding efficiency, the 6-cylinder naturally-aspirated engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i again offers the very best in its segment. Weighing just 355 lb thanks to its composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, cylinder head cover made of a special synthetic material and lightweight camshafts with aluminum VANOS control unit, is exceptionally light.

While BMW’s VALVETRONIC engine management controls valve stroke on the intake valves, double-VANOS varies the angle of the intake and outlet valves in an infinite process. This allows particularly efficient use of fuel, providing a “beefy” torque curve and giving the engine instant response.

The engine in the BMW Z4 sDrive30i develops maximum output of 255 hp from 3.0 liters capacity at an engine speed of 6,600 rpm. Maximum torque of 220 lb-ft, in turn, comes at just 2,600 rpm.

With this kind of power, the BMW Z4 sDrive30i accelerates from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.6 seconds (with optional sport automatic in 6.0 seconds). Top speed is electronically limited to 130 mph (150 mph when equipped with the optional Sport Package).

6-speed transmission with short gearshift travel featured as standard.

All variants of the new BMW Z4 come as standard with a 6-speed manual gearbox. Developed specifically for BMW’s new Roadster, the various transmission options are particularly sporting in their character. Indeed, this is borne out in particular by extremely short gearshift travel much shorter than on all other current BMW models with a manual gearshift.

Optional: 7-speed sport automatic with double clutch and 6-speed sport automatic with paddle shifters.

As an option, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is available with BMW’s newly developed double-clutch sport automatic gearbox. Based on the M DCT transmission introduced in the BMW M3, this 7-speed gearbox ensures faster acceleration and extra performance in comparison with the 6-speed manual gearbox, while providing the comfort features of a BMW automatic transmission. The 7-speed double-clutch sport automatic shifts gears without the slightest interruption of power.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35i with its seven-speed sport automatic accelerates to 60mph in just 5.0 seconds, while fuel consumption is expected to outperform the fuel economy on the same model with a manual gearbox.

Sport automatic gives the driver the choice of either automatic (Program D) or manual gear selection. If desired, the driver may shift gears manually by means of paddles on the steering wheel.

The 6-speed sport automatic transmission available on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i promotes not only driving comfort, but also the sporty performance of a BMW Roadster. Indeed, the characteristics of the car are attributable to the direct connection linking the transmission to the engine, based on modern torque converter technology with an integrated torsion damper, avoiding unnecessary slip and therefore helping to eliminate any loss of power and performance. Even the slightest movement of the gas pedal, therefore, is converted spontaneously into a quick response with gearshift times reduced to a minimum.

The sport automatic transmission offers the driver the opportunity to shift gears manually when desired. Apart from selecting gears via the selector lever on the center console, the driver also has the option to use the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel.

Sophisticated suspension technology, high-performance lightweight brakes.

Rear-wheel drive, near perfect weight distribution, the long wheelbase and the low center of gravity on the roadster create ideal conditions for supreme agility.

Featuring traditional spring-struts, a “double-jointed” front suspension made largely of aluminum, and a constant-geometry rear axle, the new Z4 comes with proven suspension concepts in a configuration perfectly tailored to the characteristics of the car.

Electric power steering plays a role also in the BMW Z4, enhancing the precision and comfort of steering maneuvers and reducing fuel consumption, since the electric motor for steering power assistance is activated only when required or desired by the driver.

The new Z4 comes with new high-performance brakes, featuring low weight and low brake pad wear. At the same time the BMW Z4 is the first car in its segment to feature an electrical parking brake activated and released by a button on the center console.

Both versions of the new BMW Z4 come as standard on 17-inch light-alloy rims and with runflat tires as well as a Tire Pressure Monitor.

BMW’s standard Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) serves not only to activate the ABS brakes and ensure stability on slippery surfaces by activating the brakes or reducing engine power, but also comprises other functions such as Brake Drying and Brake Standby as well as a Start-Off Assistant. Acting in a similar way to a mechanical limited slip differential, DSC electronic rear brake management is used to simulate a limited slip differential for stronger acceleration in turns.

Activating Dynamic Traction Control at the touch of a button, the driver is able to raise the response thresholds for intervention by the DSC, thus enjoying the option, for example, to set off on loose snow with the drive wheels slightly spinning. And when desired, the driver is also able to deactivate DSC altogether (ABS remains active).

Adaptive M Suspension featuring Electronic Damping Control (EDC).

The agility of the BMW Roadster may be further enhanced by ordering the optional Sport Package featuring Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control. A central control unit varies the “compression” and “rebound” stages on the four twin-sleeve gas pressure dampers to provide optimum response at all times. The response time is so fast that a signal coming from a front wheel crossing a hole in the road reaches and re-adjusts the rear dampers even before the rear wheels reach the same uneven road surface.

Comfort and sportiness in one: Dynamic Drive Control.

Dynamic Drive Control allows the driver of the new Z4 to choose the drive characteristics of the car. In addition to changing damper forces on the Adaptive M Suspension, DDC also conditions the responses of the gas pedal, the power steering, and the response thresholds of Dynamic Stability Control. And if the car is fitted with either sport automatic transmission, the adaptive gearshift logarithms are adjusted.

The driver operates Dynamic Drive Control via a button on the center console next to the gear selector. By pressing the button, s/he is able to choose from the NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ modes, thus activating a pre-configured, perfectly balanced set-up. The SPORT mode, for example, offers more-direct steering behavior and a more-direct response to the gas pedal. The SPORT+ mode, in turn, serves additionally to activate the Dynamic Traction Control mode of DSC, intentionally allowing slight wheelspin and thus enabling the driver to take a bend in a controlled drift.

Extra space, more safety.

The new BMW Z4 is slightly larger outside than its predecessor, at the same time offering significantly more comfort in terms of space and a lot more loading space: BMW’s new Roadster is 5.8” longer, 0.4” wider, and 0.3” lower. Wheelbase has grown 0.1” to measure 98.3″.

Apart from all-round visibility, the interior offers greater headroom (+0.20″), extra shoulder room (+0.79″) and more elbow freedom (+1.69″). The door opening, increased in size by 1.02″, allows even more convenient access with the roof closed.

The extremely stiff bodyshell, lightweight construction and near 50/50 weight distribution enhance both the safety and agility of the new BMW Z4. High load-resistant subframes, optimum use of crush zones, the extremely stiff passenger cell and highly efficient restraint systems ensure outstanding accident safety. Frontal and head/thorax airbags, belt latch tensioners and belt force limiters are activated by the sensor-controlled electronic safety system as a function of the type and severity of a collision. The head/thorax airbags are integrated on the outside of the seat backrests and inflate over a large surface in the event of a collision from the side.

Making its premiere in the BMW Roadster: the latest generation of iDrive.

The new Z4 is the first BMW Roadster to feature the iDrive control system as part of its optional navigation system. In the new Z4 the iDrive serves to activate all entertainment, information, navigation and telecommunication functions.

The system itself is made up of a Controller on the center console and a folding, high-resolution Control Display on the instrument panel, allowing the driver to intuitively and safely mastermind all available functions.

Pressing the direct selection buttons on the newly configured Controller, the user is able to spontaneously change to the CD, radio, telephone and navigation functions. The range of direct selection buttons has now been rounded off by the three MENU, BACK and OPTION command buttons, and programmable favorite buttons in the instrument panel allow the user to save and directly select radio stations, telephone numbers and navigation destinations, and other menu items available directly through iDrive.

Measuring 8.8 inches in size, the high-resolution Control Display with its resolution of 1,280 x 480 pixels offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics or pages from the internet. A picture of the Controller shown in the Control Display gives the driver greater and clearer orientation in choosing the next step in the operating process.

Using the navigation system is even easier thanks to iDrive. Full-screen map presentation, for example, offers an incomparably detailed overview of the region in which the driver is currently traveling. As an alternative the Control Display also offers an assistance window presenting further highlights and maps independent of the main map.

With navigation data saved on an 80 GB hard disc installed in the car, access times are faster than before. And at the same time the hard disc may also be used as a 15 GB music archive.

Roadster-specific climate comfort and leather with Sun Reflective Technology.

The new BMW Z4 is equipped as standard with air conditioning and seven blower stages. Optional automatic climate control allows separate temperature selection on the driver’s and passenger’s side, individual, automatic temperature control in five stages of intensity, and manual adjustment of air stratification. With the roof open, automatic climate control includes convertible mode.

Like BMW’s Convertibles, the leather in the new Roadster incorporates Sun Reflective Technology. A special, highly innovative type of leather on the seats, interior panels, and steering wheel that significantly reduces the heat effect of bright sunshine: Treatment of the leather in Sun Reflective Technology serves to integrate special color pigments into the material to reflect infrared radiation in the sunlight.

Top-end audio and communication systems.

The audio systems available in the new BMW Z4 set standards in the segment in every respect.

The CD player fitted as regular series equipment also serves to play music files in the MP3 format. The available premium hi-fi system comes with up to 14 loudspeakers and two additional subwoofers for an intense and precise experience in sound, with amplifier output of up to 650 watts. A standard AUX-In port is provided, allowing the integration of various external MP3 player. A 6-disc CD/DVD changer in the glove compartment is also available.

A Bluetooth interface is available in conjunction with optional BMW Assist to offer greater safety and convenience for making telephone calls while driving. To fully integrate the latest smartphones in the car, the new BMW Z4 is also available with a smart phone integration option.

Yesterday we saw the front of the new 2009 BMW Z4 on the set of the upcoming Michael Douglas flick Solitary Man. Today a scan of a rendering in the 2009 Z4 brochure has popped up online showing us the back of the car. The image is a bit skewed but with both pictures now in hand we can tell how the new 2009 BMW Z4 will look like before its debut.

If you think that you’re looking at the images of the BMW Z4 Coupe – you’re wrong. The 2009 BMW Z4 will now come as a hard-top convertible. We’ll bring you more details on Dec. 15th.

2009 BMW Z4 (Leaked Images):

Source: BMWBlog

While BMW won’t release images of the next-generation BMW Z4 until December 15th, a sneaky forum member at ZPost spotted the car totally uncovered at a BMW dealership.

According to the member, the 2009 Z4 was spotted on the set of an upcoming Michael Douglas movie – Solitary Man.

We’ll have the full details and high-res photos for you in less than 2 weeks so stay tuned.

2009 BMW Z4 spotted on the set of Solitary Man:

Thanks for the tip Tim!

Source: ZPost