2019 BMW Z4 officially unveiled

ABU DHABI: After seeing a host of leaked images and sketches, BMW has finally revealed the new Z4 at the Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, California. With this new launch, the BMW Z4 entered its third-generation model year. The European debut of the model is scheduled at 2018 Paris Motor Show.

Many are not aware, but the new Z4 is co-developed with the upcoming Toyota Supra, and the two cars are built on the same platform, specially developed for the purpose. In addition to this, the Z4 also borrows electric components, chassis, and suspension from BMW cluster platform that features in models like X3, X4, X5, 5-series, and 7-series. Reports also suggest that the same platform would star in the seven-generation 3-series sedan.

On the mechanical front, the 2019 Z4 is expected to be powered by the same a 3.0-litre, straight six turbo mill found in new M2 Competition. The said mill generates a maximum power of 410 hp along with a peak torque of 550 Nm in the M2. The current model, however, comes fitted with a 3.0-litre mill that generates 340 hp and 450 Nm. According to BMW, the M40i M Performance model can do 0 - 100 kmph run in 4.6 seconds with a top speed of 250 kmph.

The transmission duties are expected to be handled by an eight-speed automatic system in all variants. However, a six-speed manual option will be present as an additional option in sDrive20i. BMW has also confirmed that the all-new Z4 will be exclusively sold in rear-wheel-drive, and not with an all-wheel drivetrain as suggested by the rumours.

On the inside, the new Z4 gets a driver-centric dashboard something it borrowed from its sedan siblings. The car features a new touchscreen infotainment system and instrument display, along with a unique set of controls that decorate the wide centre console. The add-on list of Z4 is also pretty long and includes a Harman Kardon sound system and head-up display.

The 2019 Z4 is 50 kg lighter than the ongoing model, thus indicating that the top-spec M40i variant will weight not more than 1500 kg. As for the car’s update in regard to the UAE market, nothing yet has been said by BMW UAE. We, however, expect it to arrive post its European debut.