BMW Malaysia Sdn Bhd today introduced the new BMW Z4, a contemporary reinterpretation of the classic roadster combined with an automatically retractable hardtop, a first for the BMW Roadster.
Following the successful 200,000 worldwide sales of the previous model, the new BMW Z4 is off to a promising start with a delivery of 2,365 units since its BMW international launch in May.
NEW BMW Z4 E89 LAUNCHED BY BMW MALAYSIA
“In Malaysia, the BMW Z4 leads its segment, accounting for 51% of cars sold over the last 3 years. Based on both the critical and market reception the new BMW Z4 has received so far, we are optimistic that it will outperform its predecessor,” said Vijayaratnam Tharumartnam, BMW Malaysia Press & Corporate Affairs Manager.
The new BMW Z4 embodies the same classic roadster proportions as its predecessors with the unmistakable design features of a long bonnet (longest in its class), a low belt line, a set-back seating position and a flattened, gently sloping rear.
“The new BMW Z4 features a practical hardtop and a design character significantly enhanced from its predecessor. These are improvements based on what the customers desired” said Tharumartnam.
There are two types of engines available in Malaysia for the new BMW Z4: the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and the BMW Z4 sDrive23i, both producing less than 219 grams of CO2 per kilometre, unmatched by any other six-cylinder engine.
The car garnered rave reviews during its world premiere at the 2009 North American International Auto Show in Detroit where critics and enthusiasts lauded its harmonious combination of genuine roadster proportions and updated modern design. The new BMW Z4 was recognised with prestigious awards in the field of design such as the American Eyes on Design in January and Red Dot Awards in June.
Several new enhancements for this new two-seater model include better head and elbow room for the passengers as well as an improved degree of comfort when entering the car. The two-section roof system features a lightweight aluminium shell design which opens and closes at the touch of a button, in under 20 seconds.
When the top is up, the new BMW Z4 boasts two striking lines and the large windows ensure excellent all-round visibility which has been increased by 40 per cent. This two-seater convertible has luggage capacity ranging from 180 litres up to 310 litres.
The driver-oriented design of the dashboard accentuates the feeling of driving pleasure for anyone in the driver’s seat. The interior cockpit is adorned with generous trim surfaces, new materials and galvanised control elements in pearl gloss chrome to emphasise the exclusivity and luxury of the car.
The BMW Z4 sDrive23i comes with a six-cylinder in-line engine with a magnesium/aluminium composite crankcase, VALVETRONIC and double VANOS. The engine capacity is 2,497cc with a max output of 150 kW/204 hp at 6,200 rpm. The maximum torque is 250Nm/184 lb-ft at 2,950 rpm and the BMW Z4 can go from 0 – 100 km/h in 7.3 seconds. The top speed is 239 km/h. This model is fitted with a six-speed automatic transmission with optimized shift points.
The BMW Z4 sDrive35i comes with the same six-cylinder in-line engine but with additional Twin Turbo and direct fuel injection (High Precision Injection). The engine capacity is 2,979 cc with a max output of 225 kW/306 hp at 5,800 rpm. The maximum torque is 400 Nm/295 lb-ft from 1,300 – 5,000 rpm. This powerful petrol engine can reach 100km/h in just 5.1 seconds with a top speed of 250 km/h. The innovative seven-speed double-clutch gear box makes it possible to shift gears without the slightest interruption of traction. Both models feature a unique combination of the extra comfort of a BMW automatic transmission and maximum dynamism and performance, superior to any other direct competitors.
The BMW Group’s Dynamic Driving Control technology is fitted as a standard in the new BMW Z4. E85, roadster, E86, coupe. With just the single touch of a button, drivers can switch between three different driving modes – NORMAL, SPORT and SPORT+ – depending on whether they are in the mood for a smoother or sportier ride. Switching between modes alters the throttle response, level of power assist and the shift points for the automatic transmission which in turn, gives the driver greater freedom to adjust the car for greater comfort or sports-car precision.
The latest generation iDrive control system debuts in the new BMW Z4 and for the first time it is integrated into the instrument panel using a folding Control Display. The high-resolution Control Display offers excellent clarity in presenting graphics and an optimised menu structure. The iDrive comes with eight favourite buttons on the centre console and enables the user to directly retrieve saved radio stations, telephone numbers, navigation destinations and all menu items.
The innovative iDrive system will also give access to BMW TeleServices which allows the vehicle to send all relevant data to the assigned BMW Service centre. Recently launched in Malaysia, this technology ensures a smoother and faster process when a vehicle is due for service.
“Joy is an emotion which forms the very core of the BMW brand. The new BMW Z4 epitomizes that value and it will appeal to those who aspire for an uncompromising level of driving purity, matched with the solid pedigree of a true roadster” said Tharumartnam.
The retail prices of BMW Z4 (on the road, without insurance, with BMW Service Inclusive 3 years/60,000km + Repair) for the new BMW Z4 Series are as follow:
BMW Z4 sDrive23i – RM411,800.00
BMW Z4 sDrive35i – RM558,800.00
Jom komen!