Launched at the 2003
Frankfurt Motor Show, the 2.2i Roadster is designed for
European roads!
BMW’s latest
addition to its roadster pedigree, the Z4, becomes even more
desirable and affordable with the arrival of a new 2.2-litre
variant. Production of the third Z4 roadster starts in
October 2003, with prices set at £24,255 (UK) on-the road.
A straight-six, 2.2-litre engine lies under the bonnet,
powering the Z4 2.2i from rest to 62 mph in 7.7 seconds and
on to a top speed of 140 mph. The engine delivers maximum
power of 170 bhp with 210 Nm torque available at 3,500 rpm.
Like the
2.5-litre Z4, a manual five speed gearbox comes as standard
with the option of a five speed automatic priced at £1,350.
The automatic gearbox includes BMW’s Steptronic system with
manual shift; drivers simply pull back the lever to change
up and push forwards to down shift.
The Z4 2.2i
comes highly specified with air-conditioning, single CD
player and Sports steering wheel as standard. Electric Power
Steering (EPS) is an electro-mechanical system, which made
its debut in both 2.5i and 3.0i Z4 launch models. Steering
feel and feedback levels are controlled by software which
provides a precise steering damper effect, optimising the
driving experience whatever the road surface.
On top of
the dynamic appeal of a genuine sports car, the Z4 2.2i is
impressively economical. Fuel consumption on the combined
cycle is 32.1 mpg with CO2 emissions at 214 g/km, placing it
in the 28 per cent band for company car tax.
Safety is of
primary concern on all BMWs and occupant protection is
assured thanks to the Z4’s ASE (Advanced Safety Electronics)
system. This features a control module linked to satellite
sensors located in the left and right B pillars, which
detect the nature of any impact and activate relevant
airbags should they be required. The module also deactivates
the fuel pump and alternator as well as breaking the safety
terminal on the battery, reducing the risk of fire.
Standard 16"
Cross Spoke alloy wheels on the Z4 2.2i are fitted with
Run-flat tyres – a feature common to all wheel and tyre
options across the Z4 range. Driven carefully at 50 mph, the
car can travel for up to 90 miles with one or more punctured
tyres, signalling the end of road side wheel changes or the
wait for breakdown assistance, and removing the unnecessary
weight of a spare wheel.
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Z4 Screensaver
