BMW has whipped the covers off its facelifted Z4, with the subtly updated roadster scheduled to arrive in South Africa in 2023. Here’s what we know so far…

The third-generation BMW Z4 has been handed a mild facelift, including exterior design tweaks, added standard equipment and a few fresh options. Though BMW Group South Africa says it has yet to nail down final specifications, it has confirmedthe updated Z4 will be available locally in the second quarter of 2023.

First up, we should point out the powertrain range in Europe carries over unchanged. That means the flagship derivative is again the Z4 M40i, which draws its urge from the Munich-based firm’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre, straight-6 petrol engine, driving the rear axle through an 8-speed automatic transmission.

However, it’s interesting to note the European press material lists this engine’s peak power output as 250 kW (along with maximum torque of 500 Nm), while the current Z4 M40i offered in South Africa boasts a figure of 285 kW (the power update for our market took place in 2020, just over a year after the Z4 arrived). Whether the facelifted version of the SA-spec Z4 M40i retains this loftier output or reverts to the Euro-spec figure remains to be seen.

BMW also made no mention of the rumoured option of a 6-speed manual gearbox for the Z4 M40i. Considering Toyota now offers this cog-swapper in the closely related GR Supra, it’s theoretically possible, at the very least. That said, even if it materialised, we wouldn’t expect such a gearbox to be available in South Africa considering BMW Group SA’s range features only automatic transmissions.

What about other engine options? Well, the current G29-generation line-up in South Africa also includes the sDrive20i powertrain, which comprises a turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol unit sending 145 kW and 320 Nm to the rear rubber. This engine option also carries over without alterations, as does the sDrive30i (190 kW/400 Nm) available in Europe.

A few minor updates for the G29-generation BMW Z4

So, what has changed? Well, 4-cylinder versions of BMW’s open-top 2-seater now receive the M Sport package as standard (suggesting the Sport Line trim level has been nixed), while three new exterior paint colours (Thundernight metallic, Portimao Blue metallic and Skyscraper Grey metallic) are offered.

A set of 18-inch M light-alloy wheels in a double-spoke design is now standard and fitted with mixed-size tyres (225/45 R18 fore and 255/40 R18 aft). Additional M light-alloy wheels – bearing a new V-spoke design, a Jet Black matte finish and diamond polished rim edges – measuring 19 inches in diameter also enter the list of options.

Other updates include a redesigned version of the grille (the kidneys now take on a horizontal inner structure) and revised side air intakes. The M lights Shadow Line option is also now available and can be ordered in conjunction with the likewise optional adaptive LED headlights.

The current BMW Z4 has been on the global market since 2018 and is built by Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria. BMW says more than 55 000 examples have been sold worldwide since launch, with the M40i accounting for in excess of 30% of sales“in recent times”.

“In a generally diminishing vehicle segment, the BMW Z4 has maintained extraordinarily consistent sales volumes since it went on sale. From day one, it has been by far the highest-selling model in a hotly contested class populated exclusively by German premium brands. And it has consistently increased its market share ever since,” says BMW.

A report from earlier this year, however, suggests Z4 production will end in 2025, with no successor in sight.

Expect pricing and final specifications to be released closer to the upgraded Z4’s arrival in South Africa in the second quarter of next year.