2014 BMW Z4 Preview - Detroit Auto Show

The 2014 BMW Z4 provides roadster buyers with a luxury option that stands above a number of its German rivals when it comes to driving dynamics.  BMW has elected not to mess too much with a good thing in its refresh of the popular sports car, but the brand has expanded the Z4 lineup through the introduction of a new trim level (Europe only) and also provided new packages that can be ordered with the vehicle.  In addition, a light re-styling breathes a bit of life into the BMW Z4's looks.

What’s New for the 2014 BMW Z4:

•  Addition of sDrive18i trim in Europe.
• Modest exterior and interior styling tweaks.
• New infotainment and communications options.

New 2014 BMW Z4: Styling and Design

The 2014 BMW Z4 is almost identical to the previous year's model from a looks perspective, with an expanded color palette available as well as new options that include bright orange accents on the door panels and a few changes to the trim surrounding the air vents and iDrive display.  Overall, there is very little to distinguish a 2013 Z4 from a 2014 Z4, which is not surprising given that a complete redesign of the car is forthcoming in the near future.  A retractable hardtop remains standard with the roadster, allowing it to transform into a coupe suitable for use during colder weather.

New 2014 BMW Z4: What’s Under the Hood

The biggest change made to the 2014 BMW Z4 won't be available to U.S. buyers: the addition of the sDrive18i trim level's 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine putting out 156 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque.  In America, the Z4 soldiers on with the same solid lineup of drivetrains that were available the year before, including a 240 horse version of that same 2.0-liter turbo, a 300 horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo, and a 335 horsepower, 3.0-liter six-cylinder turbo.  A six-speed manual transmission is still offered with the Z4, alongside both an eight-speed automatic and a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual.

New 2014 BMW Z4: Features and Technology

The 2014 BMW Z4 now offers the BMW ConnectedDrive Services feature, which provides the ability to link the roadster to Twitter, Facebook, and online radio services.  The vehicle's M Sport package upgrades the suspension system to a stiffer spec and also adds special 18-inch rims and a body kit that does a better job of channeling air around the car.  Interior tweaks associated with the Z4 M Sport package are a different steering wheel, grippier sport seats, and unique trim.

New 2014 BMW Z4: What Autobytel Thinks

The 2014 BMW Z4 is somewhat of a placeholder for the luxury car company.  While it remains a competent entry in the premium convertible segment, it's clear that this refresh is meant to tide buyers over until a redesigned version of the vehicle can debut over the course of the next few years.  There's really not a lot of 'new' to go with the 2014 edition of the car, so we can't get too excited about the Z4, but at the same time we don't have anything bad to say about a roadster that continues to command respect from a loyal group of fans.