Revised Z4 raises its game 23.06.2006

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The Z4 Roadster has been given a face-lift but you could be forgiven for overlooking it amid all the fuss over the new Z4 Coupé. The visual changes are so subtle that only the keenest eyes are likely to spot the new bumpers, light lenses and alloy wheel options.

The changes do sharpen the already edgy looks, though, and whether you like them or not, the roadster should still command your attention.

The chassis hasn't been fettled, but then the Z4 was already an engaging drive. Instead, the big news is a refreshed engine range that makes the most of the Z4's potential.

Entry-level cars have the same 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine as before, while the range-topping M model shares its powertrain with the coupé version's.

There are three new six-cylinder engines, however, all of which use BMW's lightweight combination of magnesium and aluminium.

There's a 177bhp 2.5-litre and a 265bhp 3.0-litre, but we drove the 218bhp 2.5-litre car, which wears an 'Si' badge - rather than 'i' - to distinguish it from the lesser 2.5.

It's a fantastic engine that remains silky smooth whether your foot is barely touching the right pedal or pressed flat to the floor. Peak power doesn't arrive until 6500rpm, but getting there is a joy because it revs so freely and has a wonderful burbling soundtrack.

As ever, the Z4's precise, grippy handling makes it a rewarding drive, but the car isn't without its compromises.

Keen drivers may find the steering rather too light, while the driving experience isn't as refined as that of a Mercedes folding tin-tip SLK. Prices, too, have gone up.
LW