Albert Jason
The German-based BMW carmaker officially launched the Z4 last year, with the roadster slowly gaining its fame as a premium convertible sports car, with an exceptional design language, plenty of high-end gadgetries and powerful engines under the hood – for all versions, the the sDrive30i, M Sport 20i and the top of the range M40i.
With that in mind, it was just a matter of time until we would see the exotic BMW Z4 gaining some new muscles and power from tuning companies worldwide. One of the firms that dared to have a taste of it is no other than 3Design from Japan, whose works are recognized worldwide, particularly when involving a BMW model.
For the 3D Design, the take on the BMW Z4 was a real challenge, however, it did its job just fine; so fine that it presented the final result at the Tokyo Auto Show, in November last year. However, it has not been presented to the public worldwide until now. And this means we have the full details of the tuner`s creation.
As we can depict from the photos below, the BMW Z4 by 3Design is a completely new ride, thanks to the tuner`s new aero kit which comprises carbon fiber elements and other components as well.
As a first look, a keen eye would constantly recognize the new front apron as well as the rear diffuser wrapped in carbon fiber reinforced polymer. These elements provide a more aggressive look and increase the car`s downforce.
The same downforce is provided thanks to the new ducktail spoiler which is made of urethane; that also gives the roadster a much sportier look. The Japanese technicians from 3Design also fitted a stainless steel quad exhaust system with 3.5-inch tips. Also, the new wheels complete the aero kit at the exterior; it is about 19-inch rims which provide a more aggressive look. Customers can also opt for 20- and 21-inch alloy wheels.
Inside the cabin, 3Design chose new styling elements that would complement the exterior. These refer to new pedal kits and footrests, aluminum handbrake levers, updated steering with carbon fiber paddle shifters, new floor and trunk mats and a couple more.
As for engine upgrades, there are no words of any new power for the moment. This means that the engine is left intact. That`s a pity though, we should have expected some new improvements under the hood as well. Hope though they would come back with some good news.
Meanwhile, the Z4 in all its forms keep their original engines and power. This means that the entry-level sDrive30i features a 2.0-liter turbo inline four-cylinder engine with 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, being sent to the rear axle via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
On the other hand, the top of the line M40i comes with a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder pot, developing no less than 382 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. The topper can run from 0 to 100 km/h in no less than 3.9 seconds, which is mind-blowing.
You can take a look at the photos below to see the tuner`s master work on the BMW Z4! Enjoy!
