New Z4 promises plenty

26/02/13

By Peter Hayward
Driving Force

A REVISED BMW Z4 sportscar range heralds the introduction of a lower powered entry model – the 18i – priced at £27,600.

Now, with another car maker, that might have meant strangled performance and lacklustre equipment.

But that’s not how BMW does things. The sDrive 18i – to give its full title – can still get to 60 miles an hour in a claimed 7.9 seconds and go on to a top speed of 137 miles an hour.

But it also manages 41 miles per gallon and low emissions of just 159 grams per kilometre.

Further up the range come 184 and 245bhp versions of the same 2.0-litre turbo, followed by a 3.0-litre turbo V6 with either 306 or 345bhp.

Six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic gearboxes are available and the automatics have gearshift paddles behind the steering wheel.

All come with BMW’s award-winning EfficientDynamics to improve engine performance while enhancing economy and cutting emissions.

Interior

Standard equipment across all models now includes DAB radio, xenon headlights, Bluetooth, USB and Sport multi-function steering wheel. All apart from the 18i also come with leather.

The steel folding roof raises and lowers in 20 seconds and extras include adjustable suspension and steering and on the automatics, adjustable gearchange times.

FAST FACTS

BMW Z4

Price: £27,600

Mechanical: 156bhp, 1,997cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving rear wheels via 6-speed manual or 8-speed automatic gearbox

Max speed: 137mph

0-62mph: 8.2 seconds

Combined mpg: 41

Insurance group: N/A

CO2 emissions: 159g/km

BIK rating: 22%

Warranty: 3yrs/ unlimited miles

Main rival: Audi TT