BMW has lifted the wraps off the 2014 Z4 Roadster at the Detroit Auto Show which represents ‘the interplay of classical proportions and state-of-the-art technology’ according to BMW. The new BMW Z4 Roadster comes with new exterior features, detailed interior refinements, a new Hyper Orange design package and the availability of the full range of BMW ConnectedDrive features.

??2014 BMW Z4 Roadster offers choice of three powerful engines

The Z4 Roadster uses BMW TwinPower Turbo technology with three output levels available. The BMW sDrive28i is powered by a TwinPower Turbo 2.0-litre engine that produces 179kW with a maximum torque figure of 353Nm. Zero to 100km/h is achieved in about 5.5 seconds when mated to a 6-speed manual transmission and about 5.6 seconds with the 8-speed automatic transmission. Combined fuel consumption for this variant is rated at 9-litres/100km.

The sDrive35i variant is powered by a N54 TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre engine that produces 224kW and 407Nm of torque. This variant accelerates to 100km/h in about 5 seconds when mated to a 7-speed DCT transmission (5.1 seconds with 6-speed manual). Combined fuel consumption is rated at 11.2-litres/100km. The top-end sDrive35 is is powered by a higher-output N54 engine that produces 250kW with a maximum torque figure of 450Nm. Acceleration to 100km/h will take about 4.8 seconds when mated to the 7-speed DCT transmission.

2014 ??BMW Z4 Roadster is stylish and sporty

The Z4 Roadster features a sweeping hood, long wheelbase, a low beltline and a low-slung rear end with a low seating position just ahead of the rear axle, which gives the driver and passenger an intense driving experience. The Z4’s hardtop is accommodated in the Roadster’s boot and when closed, seals the smooth flowing roofline while the large windows provide a sense of space in the cabin. The hardtop can be opened by pushing a button while the car is moving at speeds of up to 40km/h and takes 19 seconds to open.

Four round headlights complement the BMW kidney grille and the standard Xenon headlights have a slim design and feature LED light rings which emit daytime running light. The 3-D design of the headlights are further complemented with LED accent lights across the top of the headlights with the metal inserts bearing BMW lettering. Integrated indicators feature chrome-coloured surrounds while the side indicators feature a newly designed tapered surround adding to the appeal of the lights.

Eleven external paint finishes are available for the new Z4 including the new Mineral Grey metallic, Glacier Silver metallic and Valencia Orange metallic which can only be ordered together with the Hyper Orange package. The Z4 Roadster rides on newly designed V-Spoke 18-inch alloy wheels. An M Sport package is also available for the Z4.

BMW Z4 Roaster interior

The 2014 BMW Z4 Roadster’s interior features a lively contrast of black and orange with the Alcantara door panel trim and the lower section of the instrument panel in orange. The black leather seats feature contrasting Valencia Orange stitching with an accent orange stripe flanked by two thin white lines, running down the centre section of the backrests and seat cushions. The Hyper Orange package also includes a metal weave trim strip which can be combined with decorative elements in high-gloss black for the door openers and gear lever. The central air vents are finished with high-gloss black surrounds and the iDrive control system’s folding Control Display are new features in the Z4’s interior. Kansas leather trim is offered on all three Z4 variants.

The new BMW Z4 can be expected in South Africa later in 2013.