Teresa’s View

Sat., Oct. 14, 2006

Teresa Mccallion Marketing Department Columnist

You know the feeling when you find that perfect outfit? The one that makes the boys’ heads spin? Ladies, back me up here. A dream design imparts a certain confidence that makes you feel you own the room. That’s what it was like the week with BMW’s 2006 Z4.

Lord, this car looks good on me and — bonus — the little roadster is a flat out blast to drive — not in that wild, I’m barely under control way, either. It’s a civilized, drop-top good time.

The Z4 is an evolutionary step forward from the Z3, the roadster that relaunched the craze in the mid-‘90s. As the first Bimmer roadster sold in the U.S. since 1959, it was an instant success. That roadster paid homage to bygone two-seaters with a retro design that’s been discarded for a new, futuristic look in the Z4. Scoops and curves have given way to right angles and enough creases to qualify as origami.

For 2006, the roadster got a major makeover. Chief among the new items are two powerful and fuel-efficient engines. The 3.0i model replaces the former 2.5i with a 3.0-liter, 6-cylinder power plant that delivers 215 horsepower — an increase of 31 hp. The 3.0si trim makes 255 horsepower. Best of all, a six-speed manual transmission is now standard on both models and a 6-speed automatic transmission option features shift paddles on the steering wheel and overall sportier programming.

An upgraded Dynamic Stability Control system incorporates new braking functions, including brake drying that acts like a squeegee for the brakes.

Need a little high octane with your Z? There’s an M version — as in mmmmfast.

The cabin is a testament to meticulous design. Everything is in its place and suitably handsome in that rather industrial, Teutonic way.

Low profile tires look fab, but be careful when nosing into parking spots. The car is very low to the ground and susceptible to front-end damage.

A low profile also means ingress and egress is tricky — beauty always exacts a price. I didn’t have too much of a problem getting in, but exiting, especially in a skirt and heels, requires a certain amount of grace and practice. Remember. Everyone is watching.

What Is It?: The Z4 is a sporty two-seat roadster from BMW. Prices for the 3.0i trim are clocking in at around $36K including destination. Prices for the 3.0si start at $43K.

Wait For It: A brand new hatchback coupe is slated for mid-year 2007.

Gadget Rating: 8.7 out of 10. The audio system is amazing. There’s 10, count ‘em, 10 speakers in this two-seater. Safety features include front and side airbags Rollover Protection and Active Knee Protection. Demerits for the poorly designed cupholders and a teeny glove box.

Grocery Sack Test: I wouldn’t take the Z4 to one of those warehouse stores, but there’s room for an average grocery run. It’s even said a single set of golf clubs will fit in the cargo area.

So, Where Are Ya From?: The Z4 is built at BMW’s plant in Spartanburg, S.C.

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