BMW Z4 Equipped With M Sport Package Spied Testing

BMW ENTHUSIASTS who have been holding out hope for an M-powered version of the new generation Z4, may be about to get their wish. BMW engineers have recently been spied testing a Z4 with what appears to be M Sport Package front and rear bumpers.

Lightly disguised with BMW's trademark psychedelic camouflage, the gunmetal Z4 spotted in the streets of Munich has taken on an even sportier and more aggressive look than the 'regular' model.

In line with BMW's usual M Sport Package offerings, the so-equipped Z4 will likely get carbon-fibre interior treatments, along with a BMW M gear shifter, M steering wheel and M footrest.

It's unclear whether the test car is sporting other BMW Performance accessories such as larger brakes, basic power enhancements or transmission upgrades, but more details will likely come as the Z4 M Sport Package moves closer to reveal.

BMW said in May that it has cancelled plans for a Z4 M, citing the recent economic downturn and a lack of customer interest. Perhaps the improving global economy, and BMW's strong market position, has revitalised interest within BMW in a harder-charging version of the sweet-handling convertible.

Still, the 'regular' Z4 models can hardly be described as underpowered.

Powered by a 3.0 litre twin-turbo high precision injection engine developing 225kW and 400Nm of torque, the BMW Z4 Roadster sDrive35i powers to 100km/h in 5.1 seconds.

The less hard-edged sDrive30i version features a naturally-aspirated version of the 3.0 litre petrol engine, producing 190kW and 310Nm of torque, while the entry-level Z4 sDrive23i offers 150kW and 250Nm of torque from its 2.5 litre six.

Click here to read TMR's review of the 2009 BMW 335i M Sport Package