CAR OF THE WEEK

BMW Z4 M40i: Licence to Thrill

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Some cars are built to get you from A to B. Others are designed to make you take the long way home. The 2019 BMW Z4 M40i sits firmly in the second category. Combining sharp styling, serious performance and everyday usability, this isn't just a convertible for sunny weekends—it's a genuine sports car you can enjoy all year round.

Powered by BMW's legendary straight-six engine and packed with clever technology, the Z4 M40i has become one of the standout modern roadsters. Here are five features that make this 69-plate model so special.

1. A Six-Cylinder Engine That Sounds as Good as It Goes

At the heart of the Z4 M40i is BMW's superb 3.0-litre turbocharged inline-six petrol engine, producing an impressive 340 PS and 500 Nm of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic gearbox, it delivers effortless acceleration, launching from 0-62 mph in just 4.5 seconds.

What really sets it apart, though, is the character. The smooth power delivery, deep exhaust note and instant response give the car a personality that's becoming increasingly rare as manufacturers move towards smaller engines.

2. The Perfect Open-Top Experience

Unlike the previous generation Z4, the 2019 model returns to a traditional fabric soft-top. It not only looks more elegant but is also lighter than the old folding hardtop, helping improve handling and weight distribution.

Better still, the roof can be opened or closed in around 10 seconds and at speeds of up to 31 mph. So, if the British weather suddenly changes its mind—as it often does—you won't need to pull over before raising the roof.

3. Performance That Doesn't Sacrifice Comfort

The M40i isn't just quick in a straight line. BMW gave it adaptive M suspension, an electronically controlled M Sport differential and powerful M Sport brakes, creating a roadster that's equally happy carving through country roads or cruising on the motorway.

Despite its sporting credentials, the ride remains surprisingly comfortable. It's refined enough for daily commuting yet exciting enough to remind you why driving can still be fun.

One interesting fact is that the Z4 was developed alongside the Toyota GR Supra. While both cars share the same basic platform and engine, BMW gave the Z4 its own unique suspension setup, steering feel and convertible design, giving it a completely different driving experience.

4. A Driver-Focused Interior

Inside, the Z4 M40i feels every bit the premium sports car. High-quality materials, supportive sports seats and BMW's intuitive iDrive infotainment system create an interior that's both luxurious and practical.

The fully digital instrument display keeps key driving information directly in your line of sight, while features such as satellite navigation, Apple CarPlay, dual-zone climate control and parking sensors make everyday driving refreshingly straightforward.

There's also more luggage space than many people expect, offering around 281 litres with the roof both up and down—enough for a weekend getaway without travelling light.

5. Timeless Looks That Still Turn Heads

Nearly every sports car aims to look fast, but the Z4 M40i manages to look elegant at the same time. Its long bonnet, short rear deck and low-slung stance capture the classic proportions of a traditional roadster while adding modern BMW styling cues.

Finished with distinctive M Performance details, larger alloy wheels and aerodynamic enhancements, the M40i has a presence that still feels fresh years after its launch. It's a car that attracts attention without shouting for it.

The Verdict

The 2019 BMW Z4 M40i strikes an impressive balance between performance, comfort and everyday usability. Its six-cylinder engine delivers genuine sports car thrills, while the refined interior and high levels of technology make it just as enjoyable on the daily commute as it is on a winding weekend drive.

As manufacturers continue moving towards smaller engines and electrification, cars like the Z4 M40i are becoming increasingly special. For drivers who appreciate open-top motoring, effortless performance and one of BMW's finest modern engines, this roadster remains one of the most rewarding convertibles on the road.

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