Subtly Updated 2014 BMW Z4 Rolls Into the Detroit Auto Show [w/Video]

You can take our word for it that the car you see here is the new, 2014MY BMW Z4 that just made its world debut at the Detroit Motor Show. It’s true that figuring out the differences to the outgoing model is not an easy task, as they are pretty much confined to the 3-D design of the headlights’ LED light rings, the BMW lettering on the LED lines on top, the new surround for the side indicators and new-design 17- and 18-inch alloys.

This understated revamp is probably why BMW chose a bright orange paint scheme for its show car. This new Valencia Orange color along with the Mineral Grey and Glacier Silver, are the only shades available with the Hyper Orange package. The latter features black leather seats with an accent stripe running down the middle and Valencia Orange contrasting stitching, a metal weave trim strip in the dash that can be combined with high-gloss black finish for the door handles and gear knob and Alcantara door panel trim.

In the U.S. market, the 2014 Z4 will be offered from next spring with two TwinPower turbocharged engines. The base sDrive28i is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with 240HP and 260 lb-ft (352 Nm) of torque and accelerates from 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) in 5.5 seconds with the standard six-speed manual transmission and 5.6 seconds with the optional eight-speed auto.

The Z4 sDrive35i’s inline-six churns out 300HP and 300 lb-ft (406 Nm) of torque. It hits 60 mph (96 km/h) in 5.0 seconds with the seven-speed dual-clutch DCT transmission and 5.1 seconds with the six-speed manual. Those wanting more poke can opt for the sDrive35is, which is powered by a higher-output version of the same unit that puts out 335HP and 332 lb-ft (450 Nm) of torque. It is available exclusively with the seven-speed DCT transmission and sprints to 60 mph (96 km/h) in just 4.8 seconds.

The new Z4 can be equipped with options like a High Beam Assistant and Park Distance Control with front and rear sensors, while, if the navigation system is ordered, the ConnectedDrive Services option offers internet-based information and entertainment as well as use of Apple iPhone BMW apps and Real Time traffic information.

An image gallery and the official video of the new BMW Z4 are available right after the break.

By Andrew Tsaousis

PHOTO GALLERY

VIDEO