DRIVEN: The All-New BMW Z4 sDrive35iS Gets A Work Out AND A Verdict

Autocar reports:

"What is it?

When BMW launched its second-gen Z4 last year the more relaxed nature and folding hard-top roof were enough for us to question whether Munich’s popular two-seater had gone soft.

This new sDrive35iS variant shows that BMW is not about to let its roads slip off the radar of enthusiasts seeking an alternative to the Merc SLK and Nissan 370Z.

Sporting a body kit developed at BMW’s M division, the sDrive35iS looks more aggressive than standard S4s (although from now buyers will be able to option all models with the new look). It also wears a new set of 18in wheels that combine with a lowered ride height to fill out the wheelarches more convincingly.

At the heart of the new car is reworked version of BMW’s twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight-six petrol engine. It delivers a significant performance edge over the Z4 sDrive35i – without any increase in fuel consumption or CO2 emissions. Power climbs to 335bhp at 5900rpm, and torque jumps to 334lb ft at just 1500rpm. Thanks a new overboost function, it even increases to 371lb ft for short bursts of full-throttle acceleration..."