Hot new BMW Z4 sDrive35is arrives

BMW has put a $13,000 price premium on its new Z4 range-topper, the awkwardly named sDrive35is, which is now on sale in Australia at $129,900.

Compared with the Z4 sDrive35i, which previously topped BMW’s two-seater folding hard-top model range at $116,900 (manual), the ‘s’ suffix brings a modified version of the Bavarian brand’s 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline petrol six, a host of chassis upgrades and a M Sport Package bodykit.

As we’ve reported, the new Z4 flag-bearer increases power from the sDrive35i’s 225kW/400Nm to 250kW and 450Nm – momentarily increasing to no less than 500Nm via an overboost function.

Combined as standard with a seven-speed double-clutch transmission comprising a launch control function (which brings the price of the regular Z4 35i to $120,400), BMW says it is enough to propel the Z4 sDrive35is to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds, making it as quick as the six-speed manual M3 Coupe and three-tenths faster than the Z4 upon which it is based.

Despite the extra pace, official average fuel consumption remains unchanged from the 225kW Z4’s 9.4L/100km.

As with other models in the standard Z4 range launched here in May last year – including the sDrive35i, sDrive30i and sDrive23i – the sDrive35is comes with BMW EfficientDynamics technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration and Electric Power Steering.

However, the new Z4 flagship also scores 10mm-lower adaptive sports suspension, exclusive 18-inch star-spoke alloy wheels and unique floor mats with embroidered ‘BMW Z4 sDrive35is’ logos.

“The Z4 is already recognised as a design icon and a triumph of engineering,” said BMW Group Australia managing director, Stavros Yallouridis. “Now in the form of the BMW Z4 sDrive35is, Australian performance enthusiasts can enjoy the ultimate BMW roadster experience.”