DRIVEN: The All-New BMW Z4 sDrive35iS Gets A Work Out AND A Verdict

"What is it?

When BMW launched its second-gen Z4 last year the more relaxed nature and folding hard-top roof were enough for us to question whether Munich’s popular two-seater had gone soft.

This new sDrive35iS variant shows that BMW is not about to let its roads slip off the radar of enthusiasts seeking an alternative to the Merc SLK and Nissan 370Z.

Sporting a body kit developed at BMW’s M division, the sDrive35iS looks more aggressive than standard S4s (although from now buyers will be able to option all models with the new look). It also wears a new set of 18in wheels that combine with a lowered ride height to fill out the wheelarches more convincingly.

At the heart of the new car is reworked version of BMW’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine. It delivers a significant performance edge over the Z4 sDrive35i – without any increase in fuel consumption or CO2 emissions. Power climbs to 335bhp at 5900rpm, and torque jumps to 334lb ft at just 1500rpm. Thanks a new overboost function, it even increases to 371lb ft for short bursts of full-throttle acceleration..."

BondMI6 - 3/9/2010 2:04:14 PM

-1 Boost

Is it just me, or does this Z4 seem more "chickish" than the last model?

Maybe it's the hardtop or the softer edged rear end vs. the old model- I don't know. I just can't picture Clive Owen in this thing.......

Agent00R - 3/9/2010 3:32:15 PM

+5 Boost

This car is totally bad-ass in person. Pictures do not do it justice.

If it is optioned out in the right color/spec/wheels, it is not "chickish."

dlin - 3/9/2010 7:18:19 PM

+2 Boost

At least the interior is very chicky. Nice chick though.

JRobUSC - 3/9/2010 2:59:13 PM

+5 Boost

I think the new Z4 is beautiful, inside and out. But I'm biased -- my dream car is an Aston Martin, and the Z4 has a lot of Aston in its appearance from the outside. I'd love a Z4 35is.

KZ258 - 3/9/2010 4:22:14 PM

-1 Boost

i rather hav the new Z. toooo many after-market upgrades available for that car and a real head-turner

freeagent - 3/9/2010 5:13:02 PM

0 Boost

needs a proper hard top/coupe version to be a serious contender. as it stands, this is a "footballer wife's" SL-lite, albeit a good one. BTW, i can see why BMW would try the "all-new" advertizing, but at least this site should recognize it for what it is.

Whelan - 3/9/2010 5:53:29 PM

+1 Boost

Were they able to fit the nameplate on the back? I'm still liked the original M roadster the most.