New BMW Z4 M40i unveiled Toyota to launch four new self-charging hybrid models
BMW has a long and illustrious history of building two seat sports cars and now, more than 80 years since the first BMW roadster went on sale, the latest has been unveiled, the BMW Z4 M40i First Edition.
Based on the BMW Concept Z4 presented at Concours d’Elegance 2017 in Pebble Beach, the new edition of the roadster inspires not only with the agility, precision and dynamic handling characteristics that are typical of BMW M Performance models, but also with particularly sophisticated design and equipment features, including a body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic.
The central sitting position for the driver, the low centre of gravity, perfectly balanced 50:50 axle load distribution, wide tracks and a compact wheelbase form the ideal prerequisites for a dynamic drive.
The BMW Z4 M40i First Edition comes with a powerful 340hp, straight six-cylinder engine and a sports suspension with electronically controlled dampers, M Sport braking system and an electronically controlled M Sport differential in the rear axle transmission. The BMW M Performance automobile takes a mere 4.6 seconds to sprint from a standstill to 62mph.
Vertically aligned headlights, the BMW kidney grille sporting a mesh design, the bonnet stretching sports car-like over the wheels, large air breathers on the front wheel arches and the distinctive spoiler integrated into the rear lid all contribute towards the characteristic look of the new BMW Z4. The design of the interior also places the focus on the sportiness of the new BMW Z4. Forward-oriented lines underscore the driver-oriented cockpit styling. Likewise, the clearly structured arrangement of all control elements enhances the focus on the driving experience inside the new BMW Z4.
Moreover, for a perfect start into a new roadster era, the new BMW Z4 M40i First Edition offers specific design and equipment features that add exclusive accents to the car’s sporty flair. The expressive body paintwork in Frozen Orange metallic is combined with an electrically operated textile soft top in anthracite with silver effect, the BMW Individual High Gloss Shadow Line, black exterior mirror caps and 19-inch light alloy wheels boasting a bicolour, double spoke design.
The interior of the edition model comprises the Vernasca black leather trim with decorative stitching, electrically adjustable seats with memory function, the option ambient light and the Harman Kardon Surround Sound System. Adaptive LED headlights with matrix function for the high beam, BMW Head-Up Display featured for the first time in a roadster and the BMW Live Cockpit Professional offering the latest networking technology underpin the advanced status the tradition-steeped concept of a two-seater, open-top sports car has reached with the new BMW Z4.
BMW will announce all details of further engine variants, technical innovations and the diverse equipment features of the two-seater on September 19, 2018. This will be followed a short time later by the trade fair premiere of the new BMW Z4 at the Mondial de l’Automobile (October 4 to 14) in Paris. The worldwide market launch will commence in the spring of 2019. 2019 will see the launch of four new dynamic, game-changing Toyota self-charging hybrid models including new generation versions of RAV4, Auris, and the return of the world’s best-selling saloon car, the Camry Hybrid, after a 14-year absence and the first Corolla Hybrid which will hit Irish shores in February.
Renowned as the world’s best-selling car, with more than 45 million vehicles sold worldwide since its introduction in 1966, the first-ever Corolla hybrid will be charged with a 1.8 hybrid powertrain and will carry a more modern and stylised aesthetic and will reflect the ‘fun-to-drive’ philosophy that’s integral to the TNGA system and the new game-changing hybrid generation.
Prices and grade level information for all models will be available from Toyota dealers nationwide from October 18th 2018, where deposits will be taken to guarantee early delivery in 191.
However given supply restrictions in Q1 ’ 19, Toyota is encouraging customers not to delay and talk to their local Toyota dealer after the 18th October to avoid disappointment.
In line with Toyota’s decision to cease production of diesel cars this year, the marque’s exclusive range of hybrid and petrol models will be based on the new Toyota design architecture TNGA. The new models will carry a more modern and highly stylised aesthetic, currently reflected in the design of the phenomenally popular C-HR. TNGA places enthusiast-oriented ‘fun to drive’ characteristics and alluring styling on an equal footing with superlative build quality, even better fuel economy and environmental benefits, all of which makes the innovative 4th generation Hybrid models a game changer.
With deposits taken from October 18 until first arrivals into Toyota dealers from the first week in January 2019, the 4th generation 2.5 litre hybrid RAV4 is 10mm wider and 30mm longer wheelbase than its predecessor and offers a more spacious and comfortable cabin combined with an increased luggage space of up to 580L. Its stunning rugged exterior styling with option bi-tone colour scheme complements its modern luxurious interior complete with an updated infotainment system in the guise of an updated version of Toyota Touch 2 with 3D sat-nav mapping, voice recognition and phone connectivity.
Marking the third generation of the incredible popular C segment car, the all new Auris boasts a visually distinctive and individual look with a lower stance and more appealing proportions. With a sleeker design than the previous model, the 2019 Auris’ has a 40mm longer wheelbase, while its height has been reduced by 25mm. The Touring Sport will be considerably longer wheelbase than the outgoing model by 100mm, make it an attractive family car.