BMW has updated its Z4 two-seat roadster for 2009. The biggest news is a departure from having to choose between either a soft-top convertible or hard top coupe. The new Z4's retractable hard top gives you the best of both!
Delivering the best attributes of hardtop and drop top motoring, the Z4's new metal roof raises or stows in just 20 seconds. The interior has been refined as well, and is now available with BMW's iDrive interface, viewed on an in-dash pop-up NAV screen.
The base engine for the Z4 is a 255 horsepower 3-liter inline-6. Also available is a 300 horsepower twin-turbocharged version of the same engine. Power is sent to the rear wheels through either a 6-speed manual transmission, or a 6-speed automatic, mated to the base engine. The turbocharged engine is available with a 7-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
Fuel economy for the Z4 ranges from 17 miles per gallon city, up to 29 miles per gallon highway.
Base MSRP for the 2009 BMW Z4 at the time of this program's production is $45,750. A fully loaded model will top out at just under $70,000. The Z4 is backed by a 4-year, 50,000-mile powertrain warranty.
With evolved styling and the added versatility of a retractable hard top, BMW has taken the Z4 from a competent 2-door rag top, to a beautiful, and more practical roadster for all seasons.