Get into the new BMW Z4 2.2i (but move quickly)

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 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.

As with 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.

Downpour:
The BMW Z4 holds a world record. It has the fastest retracting electric roof
on the market. At the push of a button, it glides into its lowered position in
less than 10 seconds, or if the British weather turns sour, back up again.

Getting around:
Either Business or Professional navigation systems are available as Z4
options. The Business system is integrated into the dashboard facia, while the
Professional system features an 8.8 inch (22.5cm) monitor which rises from the
dashboard - the screen doubling as a television where specified. All
navigation systems for new BMW cars now include a DVD disc which provides quick
access to detailed maps covering the whole of Europe.

Move quickly:
Buyers should act quickly if they want a Z4 roadster for next summer. Waiting
lists for the launch models already stretch into May 2004 and registrations to
date reflect the strength of demand. In the two months since its June 19
launch, a total of 2,320 of the 2.5 and 3.0-litre variants left BMW showrooms
around the UK.

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