Design
All 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster models are fitted with the same retractable hardtop roof. The two-piece electrohydraulic top is manufactured with a lightweight aluminum shell construction and a heated glass rear window, and BMW says it will completely open or close within 20 seconds at the touch of a button. When open, the roof panels fold down nearly flush with the rest of the bodywork to retain BMW’s low-slung rear-end design. When closed, the fully lined and insulated roof duplicates the comfort, quietness and outward visibility associated with a fixed-roof coupe, BMW says.
Like the outgoing model, the new Z4 Roadster’s styling features a long hood, large wheel arches, long wheelbase, and small overhangs—the styling is unmistakably BMW. The interior has been revamped with increased head and elbow room, and higher-quality materials throughout the cabin. There is a wide range of storage options throughout the cabin, including a spacious crosswise storage compartment behind the two seats. The instrumentation is typical BMW with a large oval speedometer and tachometer set immediately behind the 3-spoke steering wheel. Five more round clusters across the dash contain the start/stop button and auxiliary cabin climate controls. The audio system and its associated controls are found in the middle of the dashboard, just ahead of the transmission selector. The 8.8-inch high-resolution iDrive screen (also used by the optional navigation system) rises out of its stored and protected position in the center of the dashboard. Window controls are on the driver’s door.
