BMW Australia has announced the arrival of its Z4 roadster, now in sDrive 35is format. That model designation signifies this is the hottest model yet in the roadster range.
With acceleration similar to that of the BMW M3 coupe – zero to 100 km/h in 4.8 seconds – but using a six-cylinder engine instead of the V8 that sits under the bonnet of the M3, this Z4 continues BMW's push in what it calls Efficient Dynamics.

             

Efficient Dynamics means making cars that are as clean and safe as possible, but without sacrificing anything in the way of driving pleasure. In the case of the Z4 35is, this means utilising a straight-six petrol engine displacing 3.0 litres and using twin turbochargers. This results in it producing up to 250 kilowatts of power. Torque is a huge 450 Newton metres, even better than this big number is the fact that this peak (or should we say plateau?) of torque is on tap from 1500 to 4500 revs.
Interestingly, and sadly from the point of view of many driving enthusiasts, part of the stunning acceleration is achieved by using an automatic transmission. Not a full auto, but one of the new generation double-clutch transmissions. This has lightning fast gearchanges that are superior to anything a human being can achieve. The double-clutch automatic, using seven forward ratios in this model, is the only transmission on offer, there's no manual gearbox option.
Note that the zero to a hundred acceleration figure requires the use of an electronic launch-control system built into the transmission. This also increases the engine’s top torque to 500 Newton metres for a few seconds at a time. Owners should be aware this take off procedure can put a fair bit of strain on the engine and transmission and is probably not something you should use all the time.

Fuel consumption, not normally a topic of conversation in a car with the stunning performance of this BMW Z4, is a mere 9.0 litres per hundred kilometres when measured on the official Australian combined driving cycle. This means the Z4 35is uses only half a litre more than the 150 kW 2.5-litre Z4. Now that's efficient dynamics for you.

            

Visually, the new BMW Z4 sDrive 35is is differentiated from the rest of the Z4 range by the use of 18-inch ‘Star-Spoke’ alloy wheels. It also feature an aerodynamic M Sport Package (which includes suspension that's lowered by 10 mm), as well as specific badging. There are also badges embroidered into the floor mats.

BMW's Z4 has always been an appealing car to driving purists thanks to its roadster layout of having a long bonnet and set back driving position. The latter positions you just in front of rear wheels and recalls the seating place of purebred sports machines going back for many decades. The chassis balance, suspension grip and overall driving feel of a BMW Z4 have to be experienced to be truly appreciated.

At this time we haven’t had the opportunity to carry out a road test on this hot new BMW Z4, but our name has been placed in the queue and we will bring you a full report as soon as possible.

The BMW Z4 sDrive 35is has a manufacturer’s recommended price of $129,900 and is now on sale. Note that the Z4 35is doesn't replace the BMW Z4 35i that was launched in Australia midway through last year and which is priced from $116,900. Government and BMW dealer charges have to be added to these prices.