BMW is in Northern Sweden this month testing a series of upcoming vehicles. Earlier today we’ve seen the highly awaited 8 Series Coupe and Convertible playing in the snow, and now it’s time to take a closer look at how the new BMW Z4 handles on the snow.
BMW’s new Z4 is built under the internal codename G29 and aims to take on the likes of the Porsche 718 Boxter. The folding hard-top of the Z4 has been replaced by a lighter and easier to accommodate fabric roof. The new Z4 derives chassis components and engineering solutions from the current 3 Series and its various derivatives, including the rear axle and five-link rear suspension from the M3/M4.
While this new Z4 does look like it’s going to be a bit longer than before, it still has the long hood and short rear deck. And it returns to the soft top configuration.
The new platform has been engineered to support petrol-electric hybrid power and four-wheel drive. Sources suggest the BMW roadster will weigh little more than 1400kg in turbocharged 2.0-liter four cylinder entry-level guise.
BMW’s newest engines will make their way into the new Z4. These include the latest evolution of its turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder powerplant, the B48, delivering around 248bhp in the Z4 sDrive30i, and a turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder unit, the B58, in the Z4 M40i M Performance. Both Z4 models will come with standard rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed ZF automatic gearbox.
The new Z4 and Supra will be assembled at automotive production specialist Magna Steyr in Graz, Austria.
