BMW has finally released the information & pictures on their latest version of the 2009 Z4 roadster. It still follows the basic formula of a stiff chassis combined with a decently powerful motor with a classy German interior but this time around it will feature a folding hardtop, which folds back in 20 seconds and has a rear defroster glass  (similar to the Mercedes SLR series),  instead of the traditional soft top.  This makes the car much more flexible for daily use with the freedom of a convertible and the safety and comfort of a coupe. However, with the target demographic of these cars in mind, I’m betting that 90% of these cars will never have the roof back more than once a year.

Now, on to the good stuff; buyers will have the choice of two trim levels: 30i and 35i. 6 speed manuals, 6 speed automatics, and  7 speed automatics will be available for each of the trim levels (except the 7 speed dual clutch auto which is only on the 35i). The 30i will be powered by a 3.0L inline 6 engine that produces 255 horsepower and the 35i will have a 3.0L inline 6 producing 300 horsepower. Higher horsepower rating on the second engine is thanks to the addition of twin turbochargers and Precision Injection. BMW’s new found affinity for twin turbochargers is definitely a welcome change for us car enthusiasts.

Performance has been pegged at an electronically limited 130MPH for non sport models and an electronically limited 150MPH for sport package models. According to BMW,  0-60 time for the 30i (with automatic) is 5.6 seconds and the 35i (with dual clutch automatic) is 5.0 seconds.

Like just about every other car company nowadays, BMW will be incorporating “greener car” technology on the Z4 which they dub “EfficientDyanmics”. It will offer drivers the option to choose between three different drivetrain and suspension settings to make sure all the car’s power is not wasted while commuting in traffic. They have not revealed any fuel mileage figures as of now.

For maximum comfort, a powerful seven stage climate control system will be included as well as BMW’s heat reflecting surface technology (also offered on the BMW 3 Series). Everything on the interior has been treated with a covering that will reflect infrared radiation from the sun so that surfaces such as steering wheel, shift knob, dash board, seats, and e-brake will not be hot after sitting in the sun.

Unfortunately, the car will weigh in at 3500lbs which is approximately 200 lbs heavier than the previous version. Stay tuned for a drive report to see if the increased power and suspension will be enough to compensate for the additional luxury!