· Thinking back, we remember the 1st generation BMW Z4 M—the first, and the last. Sadly, M GmbH's Munich offices have decided not to introduce the 2nd generation Z4 M, which brings me to the all-new Z4 SDrive 35is, a tweaked version of the standard twin-turbo 35i. Can this new model match up to the remarkable Z4 M?
· Design & Engineering:
Some may argue that there is almost no difference in looks, compared to the standard Z4 35i. Apparently, there are some ways. For instance, there is the standard M Sport aerodynamic kit that includes a front bumper with larger intakes, silver horizontal fins on either side, silver wing mirrors, 18in-sport alloy M wheels, as well as the distinguishable SDrive 35is badges on the front wings. Under the hood, we see the prominent 3-liter twin-turbo charged engine, boosted with an extra 34 horses, and 50Nm. Coincidentally, the same tweaked engine is seen in the latest M model—the 1 series M coupé.
· Interior
Opening the firm German build door, one immediately notices the M-badge doorsill, the words SDrive 35is splashed across the speedometer, and the obvious M logo on the assuring steering wheel. As with its predecessor, the tweaked Z4 features a muted, but driver-orientated interior. The standard sport seats are comfortable and supportive, while the spacious cabin features an array of cubbyholes, along with enough space behind the two seats to throw in shopping bags, teddy bears, the sort. In addition, the two-piece hardtop features anthracite coloured headlining, while the rest of the interior consists of aluminum carbon trim, contrasting red and blue stitching, grey colored dials, iDrive, sat nav, etc. In short, you have a simple interior with lots of discrete perks.
· Ride & Handling
Lets start with some facts and figures. The Z4 S, will do 0-100km/h in a zippy 4.8 seconds, four tenths faster than its rival—the Porsche Boxster S. The electronically limited speed stands at 250km/h. Driving in the city, turbo lag is evident due to the extra oomph given to it, but is made up for when pushed hard on the highways. Sadly, the engine is not as creamy as other BMW’s, such as the 523i, Z4 2.3i, 730i, etc. An auto-manual +/- gearbox is offered, along with classic M trend paddle shifters, allowing faster gear changes and more ‘joy’. Adaptive M sport suspension lowers the height by 10mm, and comes with VDC for enhanced ride characteristics. Out on the open roads, there is a sportier feel to the entire ride, as everything feels even more balanced and stable. Then comes the catch—over potholes, bumps, humps, etc., the lower and firmer suspension provides a back wrecking feel. To make up for it, steering is much more responsive and alive. Weigh the sides yourself.
· Verdict
A beast-within-the-beauty luxury convertible. Sadly, it lacks the magic of a true, charismatic M vehicle.
o Personal advice: Either you go for the standard Z4 twin-turbo charged 35iDrive model, or a Porsche Boxster S. The Z4 SDrive 35is still needs some refinement before it can be dubbed the (substitute) 2nd generation Z4 M.
o Picture from:
No comments:
Post a Comment