This 2-seat convertible has been redesigned for 2009: styled lower and longer. The new Z4 roadster offers a choice of two engines (both more powerful than those offered in 2008),and features a new retractable hardtop?which deploys or stows in 20 seconds,according to BMW?and a new automatic gearbox.

Two trim levels are available on the 2009 BMW Z4,differentiated mainly by their engines. The Z4 sDrive30i features 17-inch wheels with run-flat tires,cruise control,leather-wrapped steering wheel,and a sound system. The Z4 sDrive35i steps up to leather upholstery,upgraded interior detailing,and automatic climate control (all optional on the sDrive30i). The interior employs BMW?s Sun Reflective leather to protect against heat when the top is down. Other option packages include Cold Weather,Premium Sound,Ivory White Leather,and Sport (which adds 18-inch wheels,higher-performance tires,upgraded seats and suspension,and a higher maximum speed). To accommodate the roof panels,the trunk has been lengthened,so that it provides 10.9 cubic feet of storage space with the top up,according to the manufacturer.

The 2009 BMW Z4 sDrive30i trim features a 255-horsepower,3.0-liter,inline 6-cylinder engine that delivers 19 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway,according to the EPA. The Z4 sDrive35i upgrades to a twin-turbocharged,direct-injection,300-horsepower,3.5-liter 6-cylinder engine,which delivers 18 mpg in the city and 25 mpg on the highway with the standard 6-speed manual transmission. A 6-speed automatic transmission is optional. A 7-speed double-clutch automatic transmission is available with the sDrive35i. Also,an updated version of BMW?s iDrive system (which the automaker says is more user-friendly) is included in the Z4. The Dynamic Drive Control system allows the driver to control throttle response,steering,and stability control thresholds.

Standard safety features on the 2009 BMW Z4 include anti-lock brakes with brake assist,top-down rollover protection,and extra protective support for the retractable hardtop.

Starting MSRP for the 2009 BMW Z4 is $45,750.