The Z4 gets a positive performance and styling update for the 2010 model. Losing the previous models high-arcing fenders, the new Z4 presents a sleeker profile. Also, if you prefer a hardtop, you have one, as the Z4 now uses two aluminum panels for its convertible top.
Wayne Cunningham
Wayne Cunningham reviews cars and writes about automotive technology for CNET's Roadshow. Prior to the automotive beat, he covered spyware, Web building technologies, and computer hardware. He began covering technology and the Web in 1994 as an editor of The Net magazine.
BMW updated its Z4 roadster, taming down some of the more extreme side lines from previous models. Beyond cosmetics, though, the new Z4 gets BMW's full raft of new cabin and performance technology.
No, this isn't the coupe version of the Z4. The first big change is a new retractable hardtop, replacing the cloth of the previous car. This top consists of two aluminum panels, and powers into position in less than 20 seconds.
The top-line Z4, the sDrive35i trim, gets BMW's exceptional twin-turbo 3-liter engine, also used in the 1, 3, and 5-series. In the Z4, this engine puts out 306 horsepower.
There are two lesser trims for the Z4. Shown here is the sDrive30i, using a naturally aspirated 3-liter engine similar to the current 3.0 Z4. In the new Z4, this engine gets you 258 horsepower. Also available, at the bottom of the line-up, is a 2.3-liter engine putting out 204 horsepower.
Standard Dynamic Drive Control in the Z4 lets you adjust performance between three settings with the touch of a button. As an option, the suspension technology from BMW's M cars is available, giving the Z4 electronic damper adjustment.
The cockpit shows off BMW refinement, with wood insets not seen in the previous Z4. This car is fitted with an automatic transmission, featuring manual and sport modes, and paddle shifters. A six-speed manual transmission is also available.
As a special treat, you can also a double-clutch seven-speed gearbox similar to the one in the M3. This transmission option is only available in the twin turbo version.
A glance at the iDrive controller shows this is BMW's newest generation of the interface. Along with the joystick/knob, there are buttons for quick access to audio, navigation, and telephone.
