BMW Z4: Now exiting its awkward adolescence

摘要

BMW has redesigned its roadster for 2009, and the change amounts to comprehensive maturation, if not quite the obvious transformation from newborn Z3 to adolescent Z4. The new two-seater retains the name Z4, but it adopts two clumsy new model designations, the sDrive3oi and sDrive35i. You'll notice there's no M roadster anymore, and word is that none is forthcoming. Nor will we see a return of the historically slow-selling hatchback coupe variant. The previous entry-level, 215-hp in-line six is history, and the old car's more powerful 255-hp, 3.0-liter powerplant is now found in the base Z4 sDrive3oi. Meanwhile, the twin-turbocharged six that we know and love from the 335i and the 135i puts 300 hp under the hood of the Z4 sDrive35i. We had a chance to sample the latter model, equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission, a variant of the BMW M3's M DCT gearbox. Appearing in the Z4 for the first time, this transmission is exclusive to the turbocharged car. The base Z4 offers a conventional, six-speed automatic (with shift paddles); both Z4 models come standard with a six-speed manual.