BMW Z-4 Re-launches at NAIAS

Dec. 15 - The classic roadster is back... more powerful and more stylish than ever before. The BMW Z4, the only car in its segment combining classic roadster proportions, rear-wheel drive and a retractable hardtop. The 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster will make its North American debut at the 2009 North American International Auto Show on January 11.

This BMW Z4 is the first BMW roadster to protect its occupants from wind and weather with a fully retractable hardtop. The two-piece aluminum shell opens and closes at the touch of a button within 20 seconds, while the compact packaging of the folding roof enables the Z4 Roadster to retain the characteristic, slender proportions of its predecessor.

The roof compartment and the luggage compartment are separated from one another by a moveable partition, which may be folded up to increase luggage space if the roof will remain closed.

The new Z4 is being launched exclusively with inline-6 engines, a choice of two engines providing both power and performance. The most dynamic version of the new Z4 comes with the world’s first inline-6 engine to feature twin turbochargers, High Precision Injection, and an all-aluminum crankcase. Maximum output of 300 hp comes at 5,800 rpm, and the BMW Z4 sDrive35i accelerates to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds.