2009 BMW Z4 - Technical Specifications

BMW has just released their full press release of the 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster. Earlier, we published the first photos of the BMW Z4 E89 and now we are back with more information regarding engine options and performance. The PDF will answer most of your questions about the type of engines offered and as expected, the top runner, sDrive35i, blows everything else away. The DCT with 7-Speed is standard on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i and runs from 0-60 in 5.0 seconds. Btw, here are the designers of the 2009 BMW Z4: Juliane Blasi - exterior design Nadya Arnaout - interior design (the one who designed CS Concept interior as well) Hilke Schaer - materials, trim & colors 2009 BMW Z4 Technical Details Since the Press Release is very long, we decided to place it into PDF files just in case you want to take it with you offline. Download: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster Release 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster Highlights   THE NEW BMW Z4 ROADSTER MODEL HIGHLIGHTS • First BMW Roadster with a retractable hardtop. The new model is the successor to both the BMW Z4 Roadster and the BMW Z4 Coupe. Two-piece electrohydraulically retractable hardtop in lightweight aluminum shell construction. The hardtop opens and closes fully automatically in each case within 20 seconds; the roof elements coming to rest in the roof compartment to give the car a low-slung rear-end design reflecting the traditional proportions of a roadster as well as a large luggage compartment. The high-quality interior lining finished in an extra-light color as well as large windows including the heated glass window at the rear ensure an exclusive ambience and optimized all-round visibility. • Long hood, large wheel arches, long wheelbase and small overhangs. • Head and elbow room as well as the degree of comfort in entering the car have been significantly enhanced over the former model. The low seating position near the rear axle guarantees the driving experience typical of a BMW Roadster. High-quality materials, first-class quality of finish and driver-oriented design of both the instrument panel and the center console guarantee an emotional driving experience in a particularly refined ambience. • Wide range of storage options within the passenger compartment including a spacious crosswise storage compartment behind the seats. • First use of the BMW iDrive control system in the BMW Roadster. In conjunction with the optional navigation system the new generation of BMW iDrive comprises an ergonomically optimized Controller for the selection and control of functions by turning, pressing and tipping the Controller, function buttons on the Controller for direct menu entry, freely programmable favorite buttons for even easier operation, as well as a folding 8.8-inch display with high-resolution graphic presentation and an optimized menu structure. Enhanced navigation system with an even wider range of functions in entering destinations, planning trips and presenting maps. Optional audio system with hard disc memory. • Introduction of the new BMW Z4 with a choice of straight-six power units ranging in output from 255 hp to 300 hp. Both versions offering an optimum combination of acceleration and fuel economy in their respective classes. BMW EfficientDynamics featured as standard with specific highlights tailored to each model: variable VALVETRONIC valve management or, respectively, High Precision Injection direct petrol injection technology, Brake Energy Regeneration, on-demand management of ¬ancillary units, variable oil pump, gearshift point indicator, all-aluminum or, respectively, composite magnesium/aluminum crankcase, optimized aerodynamics, and s with reduced rolling resistance. Both engine variants fulfilll the future EU 5 emission standard. • Seven-speed sport automatic with double clutch as an option on the BMW Z4 sDrive35i. Shifting gears without the slightest interruption of power, the transmission provides a unique combination of the extra comfort of a BMW automatic transmission with maximum performance. Acceleration and efficiency improved over the manual gearbox models. Six-speed sport automatic with optimized gearshift dynamics, direct connection to the engine and minimized converter slip available as an option on the BMW Z4 sDrive30i. Both sport automatic transmissions feature gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. • Outstanding driving dynamics thanks to near 50/50 weight distribution, rear-wheel drive and lightweight aluminum suspension with a double-joint tiebar front axle and centrally guided rear axle. Electromechanical power steering, high-performance brakes, latest generation of Dynamic Stability Control. Dynamic Drive Control featured as standard allows the driver to set up the car in three stages at the touch of a button. Dynamic Drive Control acts on the gas pedal control map, engine management, DSC response, the power steering control map, the dynamic gearshift on the optional sport automatic transmission and, on cars fitted with the optional Adaptive M Suspension, the control map for Electronic Damper Control. • Comprehensive safety concept with extremely stiff body structures, defined load paths, specific use of high-strength steel and special deformation elements, head/thorax airbags integrated at the front and at the side in the seat backrests, three-point inertia-reel seat belts with new belt tightening technology, massively reinforced A-pillars and roll bars behind the headrests, runflat tires and a Tire Pressure Monitor fitted as standard, headlights with standard bi-xenon adaptive light technology. • Engines:   BMW Z4 sDrive35i: Straight-six gasoline engine with Twin Turbo and direct fuel injection (High Precision Injection) Capacity: 2,979 cc, max output: 300 hp at 5,800 rpm, Max torque: 300 lb-ft from 1,400–5,000 rpm Acceleration 0–60 mph: 5.1 sec (seven-speed sport automatic with double clutch: 5.0 sec) Top speed: 130 mph (150 mph with Sport Package) (electronically limited) CO2 emissions to EU standard: 219 g (210 g)/km. BMW Z4 sDrive30i: Straight-six gasoline engine with magnesium/aluminum composite crankcase, VALVETRONIC and double-VANOS Capacity: 2,996 cc, max output: 255 hp at 6,600 rpm, Max torque: 220 lb-ft at 2,600 rpm Acceleration 0–60 mph: 5.6 sec (sport automatic: 6.0 sec) Top speed: 150 mph (with Sport Package) (electronically limited) CO2 emissions to EU standard: 199 g (195 g)/km.

 

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2009 BMW Z4 - Official Photos

2009 BMW Z4  Update: Official marketing photos of the 2009 BMW Z4 have been released. The embargo expired at 6PM EST, so everyone is posting them now. As promised before, we have some new official photos of the new 2009 BMW Z4. Just a week ago, we showed you the first rear photo of the E89 Z4 and since then, everyone has been asking for more shots. In less than 24 hours, we should be seeing the full resolution marketing materials. So far, these new photos include a fully revealed interior shot along witht he front end.  I won't be getting into many details now, I will let you enjoy them and savurate this moment with us.  Thanks for the tip Anonymous ! More photos after the jump 2009 BMW Z4 photos 2009 BMW Z4 photos

 

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BMW M Sales Up This Year

In a press release issued a two days ago, BMW confirmed that the M sales were up this year compared to 2007. The 50 percent increase over last year and the 22, 340 vehicles sold worldwide is impressive, but in the same time deceiving. The new M E9x models were released as MY08 and as expected with the release of a new product, the sales were booming. Next year we will be able to make a fair comparison and see where BMW stands in terms of sales. Also, the BMW dealerships are offering amazing deals on the M3s and associated with the low finance(0.9%) or lease rates(2%-4%), you get the full picture. In a conversation with a dealership, I was told that they are taking losses just to be able to clear the showrooms.  The increase in M sales helps with BMW's revenue for this year, but that doesn't necessarily mean the profits made on the M car is directly proportional with the "amazing" '08 sales. The press releases are fun to read, but they sometimes tend to sugarcoat or misguide the reader. So, I'll let you read it and I look forward to seeing your comments. Thanks for the tip Streetdrift.net   Press Release BMW M GMBH ON STABLE GROWTH COURSE: Worldwide sales as of November 2008 more than 50 percent over last year's comparative period. Munich. In the second half of the business year 2008, BMW M GmbH continues to hold a stable growth course. The significant increase in sales as compared to last year have resulted in 22,340 vehicles being sold worldwide as of November 2008. This means that BMW M GmbH has exceeded the previous year's equivalent figures (14,092 units) by over 50 per cent. A major contribution to this was the success of the new BMW M3, which has shown continuously increasing sales figures since its market launch and which is now offered in three body variations. With its attractive product range and worldwide presence, BMW M GmbH has succeeded in increasing its sales figures and market share despite the current difficulties in the market environment. As long ago as August 2008 the worldwide sales figures of BMW M GmbH reached a figure of over 16,150 units, thus surpassing the total figure of last year (16,128 units) early on. In the months that followed, this positive development actually continued. In November 2008 alone some 1,900 BMW M automobiles were delivered. "The fact that our dealers were able to supply significantly more vehicles than the average of the last nine months even in such dramatic times for the world economy demonstrates the fascination and attraction which BMW M automobiles exercise on our customers," explains Ludwig Willisch, President of BMW M GmbH. The unique driving experience offered by a BMW M model is still a persuasive factor for customers who wish to express a passion for top performance in the choice of their vehicle. As usual, the final figures for total sales in 2008 will not be available until the annual report has been completed. Nonetheless, the currently available figures suggest that 2008 will be one of the most successful years for BMW M GmbH in its 30-year history of vehicle production. Worldwide it was especially the new BMW M3 which caused a sensation during the course of 2008. The high-performance sports car sold almost twice as well in its first year of production than its predecessor model within the same period. The penetration of additional target groups and the associated increase in sales figures was in part due to the extended model variety. In addition to the BMW M3 Coupé, the BMW M3 Convertible and the BMW M3 Sedan have been on offer since spring 2008. All in all, BMW M GmbH offers seven current models. The portfolio ranges from the three body types of the BMW M3 and the BMW M5 Sedan through to the models of the BMW M6 Coupé and BMW M6 Convertible.

 

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BMW LayerON Concept: Personalized rent car

The BMW LayerON is a design study of a futuristic rental vehicle which can be customized in shape by means of electrically controlled outer panels. It was created by students at The European Institute of Design in Turin, Italy. The three designers are Aydar Nigmatullin(Russia), Patrick De Laet Moreno(Spain) and Rocco Sergio D'Argento (Italy). Back in August, we wrote an article on a contest sponsored by BMW where students at the European Institute of Design were creating 2015 BMW concepts. The students' job was to interpret the language, evolution and the trademark essence, in view of the company's future perspectives. The project BMW LayerOn was developed in two stages, first they focused on future world and society. "We noticed that the world 'goes virtual' : people buy less and rent more. The post-industrial society is characterized by the vast use of services and, respectively, decreased purchase of goods." "We imagined that future generations will go further following this trend. And they would like to have a rental car when they need it rather than to buy one." Another trend taken into consideration was the need for personalization, the possibility of customizing your car to meet your needs. "Everybody want to have a car that reflects one's personality, a car that is fully customizable. And this was our challenge: to make a car for rent, but still personal." The second stage, development, was to incorporate the case study from step one. The LayerON has a bio-inspired skeleton structure on which the covering panels create a sort of outer skin. The front panels have a sandwich structure: the plastic material outside is combined with an internal layer which is electrically controlled and can can contract and dilate, thus changing the overall shape of the vehicle. Gina Concept was based on a similar principle where instead of a steel or aluminum body parts, high-tech-textile is used that can be formed in multiple ways. Moreover, the design would allow downloading personal driver settings, for custom exterior appearance, favorite interface of car display, electronic driver's assistant voice and even driving preferences. What I love the most about the design is the focus on the driver's habits, preferences and the desire for personalization, something that current BMWs are missing. Despite the skepticism, I do see these type of concepts making their way into the public market within the next 15-20 years. And here is a pretty cool video: [Source: CarBodyDesign ]

 

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New Spy Shots: 2010 BMW X6 M

The 2010 BMW X6 M seems to be in the final testing stages and it has been spotted once again near the BMW Plant in Spartanburg, SC. Our friend Palbay was there once again snapping photos of this controversial BMW //M model. The X6 M has never been confirmed by BMW and all the hints that we received over the last months were about "the new performance twins". The BMW X6 M rumors have been received with skepticism by the bimmer fans, majority of them disagreeing with BMW's intention of adding more M performance models to the SAV/SAC market. The BMW X5 M is another model that was spotted several times near Spartanburg, but it is expected to make its debut after the X6 M. There has been always a debate on which engine will or should power the X6 M. The 4.4 liter V8 Twin-Turbo, supercharged version was rumored to be one of them, but recently we heard that the 5.0 liter V10 engine from the M5 but with twin-turbos and will be used for the X6 M. The engine is rumored to output 580 horsepower making the X6 M a true performance model. The BMW X6 M will compete for the market with Porsche's Cayenne Turbo and Mercedes-Benz's ML63 AMG. Pricing? Unknown at the time, but do expect a premium price that will make the X6 M one of the most expensive BMWs. Since BMW has not announced anything exciting for the Detroit Show, I'm wondering if we will see the X6 M displayed there. [Source: More photos at Leftlanenews ]

 

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BMW X5 Diesel arriving at US dealerships

I was just informed today that many of the US based dealerships are starting to receive the new, highly awaited BMW X5d. Both the 335d Sedan and X5d SAV are equipped with BMW's advanced 3.0L diesel and 50-state compliant Blue-Performance emissions system. The 3.0L inline-six diesel uses the latest Variable Vane - Twin Turbo technology, an aluminum crankcase and third-generation common-rail direct fuel injection with precision-quality piezo-injectors for improved performance, reduced NVH, lower emissions and improved fuel economy. The BMW X5d's advanced diesel is rated at 265hp and 425lb-ft of torque at 1,750 rpm and it has a base price of $52,025. The good news it that X5 xDrive35d will qualify for a maximum tax credit of $1,550. So, if you're looking to test drive one, please contact your local dealership. Thanks for the tip Irv!

 

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BMW Motorrad To Provide West Coast Off-Road Training Center

In a recent press release, BMW North America announced the opening of a new Off-Road Training Center on the West Coast. The training center will be similar to the one at the Spartanburg Plant in South Carolina. BMW Motorrad chose RawHyde Adventures, of Castaic, CA to serve as a factory-authorized off-road training. BMW Motorrad and RawHyde, BMW will initially provide 12 GS-model motorcycles (F 650 GS, F 800 GS and R 1200 GS models) for the training center. RawHyde will supply instructors for the two-and-a-half day courses. Pricing? Not on the low side, but I'm assuming well worth it for motorcycles fans: the cost for the two-and-a-half day course is $1,295 and the one including the Base Camp Alpha Adventure, will cost $1,890. Full Press Release Woodcliff Lake, NJ - December 9, 2008… BMW Motorrad has selected RawHyde Adventures, of Castaic, CA to serve as one of nine factory-authorized off-road training centers worldwide. In the United States, RawHyde Adventures, located on 500 acres in the mountains above Los Angeles, will serve as the West Coast BMW off-road training facility. An East Coast off-road training facility is at the BMW Performance Center in Spartanburg, SC. "We are delighted to welcome RawHyde Adventures into our international family of off-road training centers," said Pieter de Waal, Vice President, BMW Motorrad USA. "They are joining an elite group of factory-authorized training schools worldwide that have the quality and commitment to meet BMW's high standards." "BMW's off-road training centers are important allies in growing our GS market segment by helping riders gain the confidence and skills to enjoy their enduro motorcycles more fully," added Todd Anderson, Marketing Manager, BMW Motorrad USA. According to the three-year agreement between BMW Motorrad and RawHyde, BMW will initially provide 12 GS-model motorcycles (F 650 GS, F 800 GS and R 1200 GS models) for the training center. RawHyde will supply instructors for the two-and-a-half day courses. Sessions begin on Fridays with an orientation, followed by a gourmet dinner. Rider training is held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, followed by a graduation celebration. Breakfasts, lunches and dinner are prepared by Cordon Bleu-trained chefs. Trail rides are offered Mondays and Tuesdays immediately after training to help graduates put their skills to immediate use while still under the supervision of RawHyde instructors. Beginning January 1, 2009, RawHyde will offer the option of a two-day overnight adventure ride, following graduation, to a destination called Base Camp Alpha, in the Mojave Desert. BMW's off-road training course is open to BMW GS owners and other licensed motorcyclists who want to explore the road where the pavement ends. The cost for the two-and-a-half day course is $1,295. The course, including the Base Camp Alpha Adventure, will cost $1,890. Gift certificates for the thrill-seeker on your holiday shopping list are available through RawHyde Adventures (www.rawhyde-offroad.com). For details about the training school, visit www.bmwoffroadacademy.com. "Ninety five percent of the world's roads are unpaved," commented Jim Hyde, a veteran adventure ride instructor and owner of RawHyde Adventures. "Yet, many motorcyclists are timid when it comes to off-road riding on heavy bikes like the GS. The BMW GS model line sets the standard for on/off-road riding. This program is designed to give GS owners and others the confidence and skills to navigate the roads less traveled." The GS traces its roots back to the early 1980s when BMW won the grueling Paris-Dakar rally four times with its trailblazing dual-purpose R 80 GS. Today, BMW Motorrad's GS model line includes the upgraded R 1200 GS and GS Adventure and the recently introduced F 800 GS and F 650 GS. Since their debut in 2004, the versatile R 1200 GS and its rugged companion, the R 1200 GS Adventure, have earned praise from motorcycle enthusiasts and the press for their exceptional performance both on and off the road. The R 1200 GS has earned award after award, including Cycle World's Best Open Class Street Bike and the International Journalist's Panel "Best Bike in the World." The R 1200 GS Adventure was named "Best Adventure Bike" three years in a row by editors of Motorcyclist Magazine. With its wide range of enduro motorcycles and increasing numbers of riders who enjoy the "adventure sport" lifestyle, BMW Motorrad is celebrating 2008 as the "Year of the Enduro."

 

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