For the new year BMW is introducing a new version of the Z4. Well, we say new, but it looks the same as before. What’s new is equipment and design packages featuring new styling details and a new entry-level engine, the sDrive18i. 

Actually, we are glad BMW didn’t change the Z4’s styling. It is still one of the best looking two-seater roadsters out there and has one of the best driving positions as well with the driver seating low right above the rear axle, with a long bonnet stretching ahead of him.

The new Z4 comes with slightly revised front-end design and a couple of new colors including Mineral Grey metallic, Glacier Silver metallic and Valencia Orange metallic. They are part of the Hyper Orange design package. You can also order individual colors for the hardtop roof, including Jet Black and Titanium Silver metallic. The A-pillars will also be painted in the same color to match the roof.

Also new for the Z4 are the 17-inch and 18-inch light-alloy wheels and the optional M Sport package, as well as the latest BMW ConnectedDrive mobility services, including  Professional navigation system and internet-based entertainment system. They are all optional extras though.

If you enjoy driving you don’t need any of that. You can get the new entry-level model powered by a 2.0-litre engine with BMW TwinPower Turbo technology developing 115 kW/156 hp. For those who need more power BMW still offers the 240 horsepower version of this car, as well as the 300 and 335 horsepower six-cylinder models. A six-speed manual gearbox is standard, but you can also order an eight-speed automatic.

The new Z4 will makes its debut at the Detroit Motor Show next month, and will hit the market in Spring 2013.