BMW has announced today that the Z4 sDrive35i is to be offered with an extra ‘s'.  This range-topper sharpens the roadster's sporting pedigree by offering an even higher level of performance and adds to its sleek, sporty looks with some extra styling touches.

Premiering at the Detroit Motor Show in January and on sale in the UK in March 2010, the new BMW Z4 sDrive35is gains an extra 34hp over the standard car, taking output to 340hp. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine with its twin turbocharger technology and High Precision Direct Injection increases maximum torque to 450Nm with an extra 50Nm of torque available in the upper gears for extra power when overtaking.  This is achieved by an extra short-time boost in turbo pressure.

Model Power hp Torque Nm Top Speed mph* Combined mpg Emissions g/km Price OTR (17.5 per cent)
BMW Z4 sDrive35i 306 400 155 31.4 210 £40,590
BMW Z4 sDrive35is 340 450- 500** 155 31.4 210 £43,885

*Electronically-limited. **Maximum figure achieved with torque overboost function.

All of this extra power results in an improved zero to 62mph time of 4.8 seconds, down 0.3 seconds from the current Z4 sDrive35i, while top speed is electronically-limited to 155mph. The implementation of BMW's award-winning EfficientDynamics technologies, such as Brake Energy Regeneration, newly revised Electric Power Steering and on-demand use of ancillary systems, has meant consumption and emissions figures have remained unchanged, from the current twin turbo model, at 31.4mpg and 210g/km CO2.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is comes with BMW's seven-speed Double Clutch Transmission as standard, allowing customers to take maximum advantage of this exceptional power plant. The gearshift response times have been accelerated for a more sporting gear change compared to the existing transmission. This gearbox is teamed with a launch control system which allows drivers to experience the maximum acceleration performance of the car with ease.

A Sports exhaust for enhanced engine breathing and tuned to make an exhilarating sound also features. The new exhaust system was specifically developed for the flagship Z4 and has special acoustic flaps and a modified silencer to ensure a lusty performance car sound.

BMW Z4 (2010)
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Adaptive M Sport suspension is standard for the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, giving a 10mm lower ride height than the standard Z4 and comes with variable damper control for enhanced ride characteristics. However, the most distinctive feature to the casual observer will be the new Z4's bespoke M aerodynamic body styling package. A revised front spoiler configuration with contrasting matt aluminium trim in the side air intakes, gives a more aggressive look to the car. This aggression flows to the side of the vehicle where specially designed18-inch light alloy wheels come as standard. At the rear a dual section diffuser with an Anthracite insert differentiates the car from standard Z4s.

Inside, Sport seats, door sill finishers with M designation, Anthracite headlining, Aluminium carbon interior trim and an M Sport multi-function leather steering wheel with shift paddles complete the package.

The BMW Z4 sDrive35is costs £43,885 OTR (based on March 2010, 17.5 per cent VAT).

M Sport specification for the BMW Z4 The launch of the flagship Z4 coincides with the introduction of the M Sport models. Customers can now choose to have any Z4 engine paired with the M aerodynamic body styling,18-inch M light alloy wheels, Anthracite head lining, M leather gearknob and M designation door sills. For added support Sport seats, featuring part electric adjustment, are also fitted, whilst all Z4 M Sport models come with leather upholstery as standard.

M Sport specification is available on all models within the BMW Z4 range. It will go on sale from March, 2010 and pricing will be confirmed in the new year.