2013 BMW Z4 breaks cover

The covers have come off the updated 2013 BMW Z4 ahead of its global debut at January's Detroit motor show, then a mid-2013 arrival in Australia. It introduces subtle changes to the interior and exterior, as well as a new, economical entry-point to the range, the Z4 sDrive18i.

The entry-level 18i variant will be the most affordable Z4 for some overseas markets, powered by a low-output version of BMW's 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that pumps out 115kW/240Nm.

It's enough power to propel the rear-wheel drive convertible from 0-100km/h in 7.9 seconds then on to a top speed of 220km/h, says BMW, while using just 6.8 litres of fuel per 100km travelled.

BMW Australia's Product Manager for the Z4 range, Alan Swanson, told motoring.com.au the efficient new drop top will not be coming to Australia due to predicted low demand.

"We don't have any plans to bring that car here," he said.

"We don't see it as necessary -- the (Z4 sDrive) 20i is a good entry for the Z4 at the moment and we don't see demand for a vehicle below the 20i."

The cheapest variant is presently priced at $76,900, the Z4 sDrive20i.

Mr Swanson added that he was happy with the three models currently offered in Australia -- 20i, 28i and 35is models -- but would "never say never" to the affordable 18i convertible model in the future.

The 2013 Z4 model range will be displayed alongside several other already-seen BMWs in Detroit, and will be coming to Australia in mid 2013 with minor changes to specification and aesthetics.

All models in the model year 2013 Z4 range get updated headlight bezels that feature "a strikingly three-dimensional design which accentuates the intricate technology of the headlights," says BMW.

Tweaks to the side indicator surrounds have also been made and apart from new alloy wheels, the rest of the car's exterior design remains unchanged.

Interior updates are nominal: high-gloss black surrounds for the central air vents and the option of a 'Design Pure Traction' style pack. This adds distinctive orange-on-black interior trim and metal-weave accents.

BMW's top-selling convertible features a folding metal roof that operates at speeds of up to 40km/h, and takes 19 seconds to open or close.

BMW's Z4 lags behind its main rival in 2012 sales volumes to the end of November, with 115 sales compared to 673 for the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class.

The BMW exhibit at the 2013 North American International Motor Show (NAIAS) in Detroit will also feature it's headline act, the BMW Concept 4 Series Coupe a new model 'preview' that will replace the 3 Series Coupe.

The latest M car will also be on display, the BMW M6 Gran Coupe, alongside several other regular vehicles from the Bavarian automaker.

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