The era of the current generation BMW Z4 is drawing to a close. BMW has officially confirmed that production of the G29-series Z4 roadster is scheduled to wrap up in March 2026, marking the end of the line for the two-seater soft-top. To commemorate its tenure, the Munich firm has announced a sleek “Final Edition” package.
This news is particularly poignant as the Z4, developed alongside the Toyota GR Supra, represents a joint engineering effort. Both models, built under contract by Magna Steyr in Austria, will cease production concurrently, signifying a major shift in the low-volume, open-top sports car segment.
The BMW Z4 “Final Edition” Unveiled
While the availability of the “Final Edition” in South Africa has not yet been confirmed, international market details offer a glimpse of this special swansong model. This package aims to enhance the roadster’s dynamic appeal with exclusive colours and premium interior touches.
Key Aesthetic Upgrades:
- Exclusive Paint: The package is highlighted by the distinctive Frozen Matt Black paint finish, a low-gloss hue exclusive to this edition that accentuates the Z4’s athletic body lines. Buyers in some markets will have the option to choose other standard colours at no extra cost.
- M Performance Touches: The exterior features the M High-Gloss Shadowline trim package, which adds dark accents to the grille, mirror caps, and other elements, complementing the matte black finish.
- Red Accents: Red brake callipers are included, establishing a vibrant contrast against the dark exterior.
Enhanced Interior Detailing:
The interior embraces a motorsport-inspired theme with striking red contrast stitching that runs across the M Sport seats (finished in a sophisticated leather-and-Alcantara combination), the centre console, the instrument panel, and the door trims. The package is completed with an M Alcantara steering wheel and specially branded door-sill strips, elevating the cabin’s sense of occasion.
The international order window for the Final Edition is set to open in late January 2026, giving enthusiasts a narrow window to secure a piece of Z4 history.
South African Focus: The Z4 M40i Powerhouse
For the South African market (Mzansi), the focus has long been on the range-topping M Performance derivative. The locally available Z4 M40i is the true performance highlight, especially after the smaller 4-cylinder sDrive20i model was quietly discontinued in late 2024.
The SA-spec Z4 M40i features the legendary TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine. This potent motor delivers $285 \text{ kW}$ of power and a robust $500 \text{ Nm}$ of torque, all channeled to the rear wheels via a quick-shifting 8-speed automatic transmission.
- Acceleration: It sprints from 0 to 100 kph in a claimed $4.1 \text{ seconds}$.
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to $250 \text{ kph}$.
🔧 Car Care Tip: Protecting Performance Tyres
The Z4 M40i is equipped with high-performance, low-profile tyres. To maintain its blistering acceleration and handling characteristics:
- Monitor Tyre Pressure Closely: Performance tyres are sensitive to pressure changes. Check the pressure weekly, especially given the rapid temperature swings often experienced in South Africa. Incorrect pressure compromises grip and wears out the tyre prematurely.
- Prevent Flat Spots: If you plan to park your Z4 for an extended period (more than a month—perhaps during the rainy season), consider moving it every few weeks or placing it on stands to prevent the high-performance rubber from developing flat spots.
For drivers looking to explore sustainable mobility, EV24.africa offers import options for electric cars, expanding choices in the premium two-seater segment with models that offer instant, silent torque.
The Road Ahead and Legacy
The Z4’s departure marks a shift in the compact premium roadster market. While a direct replacement is unlikely, the Z4 leaves behind a legacy of pure, open-air driving pleasure. For those who want the exhilarating performance of the M40i, now is the time to secure a new model, priced from R1 332 760.
For buyers seeking this precise blend of B58 straight-six performance and open-top fun, but perhaps at a more accessible price point, the pre-owned market offers excellent options. You can find well-maintained used Z4 models, alongside premium rivals like the Porsche Boxster and Audi TT Roadster, by browsing the comprehensive listings on auto24.co.za.
Discover additional tips on buying and maintaining high-performance German sports cars in Mzansi from industry experts at imotonews.co.za.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When is the final production date for the G29-series BMW Z4?
A: Production of the G29-series BMW Z4 is officially confirmed to end in March 2026.
Q: What is special about the Z4 “Final Edition” package?
A: The Final Edition package distinguishes itself with exclusive features such as Frozen Matt Black paintwork (or other colours at no extra cost), red M Sport brake callipers, M High-Gloss Shadowline exterior trim, and a high-end interior featuring red contrast stitching on the M Sport seats (leather-and-Alcantara) and an M Alcantara steering wheel.
Q: What engine powers the Z4 M40i sold in South Africa?
A: The SA-spec Z4 M40i is powered by a TwinPower Turbo 3.0-litre inline-six petrol engine, which produces $285 \text{ kW}$ and $500 \text{ Nm}$ of torque, enabling a 0-100 kph sprint in $4.1 \text{ seconds}$.
Q: Will the Z4 “Final Edition” be available in South Africa?
A: It is not yet confirmed whether the Z4 “Final Edition” will be officially offered in South Africa. The international order window is scheduled to begin in late January 2026.
