Hey car enthusiasts and future owners. Buying a new car in India is a big decision, isn't it? We all think about a few crucial things: how much it costs, how safe it is for our loved ones, the monthly maintenance bills, if it has all the latest tech features, and how good the company service is. Today, we're diving deep into a car that checks many of these boxes while offering an exhilarating experience: the new BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT. If you've been dreaming of a luxury convertible sports car that combines performance with premium comfort, you're in the right place. Let's find out if the Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT is the perfect match for your garage.
Main Highlights
Engine Specifications
Under the hood of the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT lies a beast ready to be unleashed.
- Engine Type: 3.0-litre TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder petrol engine (BMW's renowned B58 unit)
 
- Maximum Power: 340 horsepower (hp)
 
- Peak Torque: 500 Nm (Newton-meters)
 
- Transmission: 8-speed Steptronic Sport Automatic Transmission
 
- Acceleration (0-100 km/h): A blistering 4.5 seconds
 
- Top Speed: Electronically limited to 250 km/h
 
Design Overview
The Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT is a head-turner, designed to make a statement wherever it goes.
Exterior Design
- Classic Roadster Proportions: Long bonnet, short overhangs, and a compact rear.
 
- Soft-Top Convertible: Electrically operated fabric soft-top that opens or closes in just 10 seconds, even while driving up to 50 km/h.
 
- Signature Kidney Grille: Wide, mesh-design BMW kidney grille.
 
- Adaptive LED Headlights: Vertically arranged LED headlights with modern BMW lighting signature.
 
- Aggressive Stance: Large M light-alloy wheels and prominent air intakes.
 
- Rear Design: Slim L-shaped LED taillights and integrated spoiler for a sporty look.
 
Interior Design
- Driver-Focused Cockpit: Everything is ergonomically designed around the driver.
 
- Premium Materials: High-quality Vernasca leather upholstery, brushed aluminium, and M-specific accents.
 
- Sport Seats: Electrically adjustable M Sport seats with integrated headrests offer excellent support.
 
- Digital Displays: Two 10.25-inch screens for the instrument cluster and infotainment.
 
- Ambient Lighting: Customizable ambient lighting sets the mood.
 
- Spacious for Two: Comfortable seating for two occupants with sufficient legroom.
 
Key Features
The Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT is packed with technology and convenience.
- Infotainment System: BMW Live Cockpit Professional with 10.25-inch control display and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster.
 
- Connectivity: Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
 
- Sound System: Harman Kardon Surround Sound System.
 
- Comfort Access System: Keyless entry and start.
 
- Wireless Charging: For compatible smartphones.
 
- Climate Control: Dual-zone automatic climate control.
 
- Parking Assistant Plus: Includes Park Distance Control (PDC), Reversing Assistant, and a 360-degree Surround View camera.
 
- Adaptive M Suspension: Electronically controlled dampers for a blend of comfort and sportiness.
 
- M Sport Differential: Enhances traction and cornering ability.
 
- Cruise Control: Dynamic Cruise Control with braking function.
 
What is the Ground Clearance of BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT
Being a purebred sports car, the Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT has a relatively low ground clearance to enhance its handling and aerodynamics. It stands at approximately 114 mm. While this is great for performance, Indian roads demand a bit more caution, especially over speed breakers and uneven surfaces.
What is the Boot Space of BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT
For a two-seater convertible, the Z4 M40i offers a respectable 281 litres of boot space. This capacity remains the same whether the roof is open or closed, which is a neat trick. It's enough for a weekend getaway for two or your golf clubs.
What are the Dimensions of BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT
Here are the key dimensions of this stylish roadster:
- Length: 4324 mm
 
- Width: 1864 mm
 
- Height: 1304 mm
 
- Wheelbase: 2470 mm
 
Powertrain Options
The BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT comes with a single, high-performance powertrain option specifically tailored for thrilling driving. It features the powerful 3.0-litre inline-six engine paired with an 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic transmission, sending power to the rear wheels. This classic rear-wheel-drive setup is crucial for its dynamic handling and sports car feel.
Safety Features
BMW never compromises on safety, and the Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT is no exception.
- Airbags: Multiple airbags including front airbags, side airbags, and knee airbags.
 
- Braking Systems: Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brakeforce Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA).
 
- Stability Control: Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Cornering Brake Control (CBC).
 
- Roll-Over Protection: Integrated roll-over hoops behind the seats for occupant safety in case of a roll.
 
- Tyre Pressure Indicator: Warns of any loss in tyre pressure.
 
- Adaptive LED Headlights: Provides excellent illumination and adapts to road conditions.
 
- Parking Assistant Plus: Helps with parking maneuvers and includes a rear view camera and Surround View.
 
NCAP Rating Table
It is important to note that specific Bharat NCAP ratings for imported, low-volume sports cars like the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT are generally not available. However, its platform sibling, the G29 Z4, received a strong rating in international tests.
| Rating Agency | 
Rating | 
Comments | 
| Bharat NCAP | 
Not Rated | 
As a niche import, it is not typically tested under Bharat NCAP protocols. | 
| Euro NCAP | 
5 Stars | 
The current generation (G29) BMW Z4 achieved a 5-star safety rating in Euro NCAP tests conducted in 2019, reflecting excellent occupant protection. | 
Rivals of BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT
In the premium two-seater convertible segment in India, the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT faces a few worthy contenders:
- Porsche 718 Boxster: A true driver's car with incredible handling and a mid-engine layout.
 
- Audi TT Roadster: (If available) Offers a stylish alternative with quattro all-wheel drive, though often less focused on raw performance than the Z4 or Boxster.
 
- Mercedes-Benz C-Class Cabriolet: While a 4-seater and perhaps a bit less performance-oriented, it offers luxury and open-top cruising.
 
- Lexus LC 500 Convertible: A much higher price point, but an alternative for a grand touring convertible.
 
How is the Car? (Pros & Cons)
Let's weigh the good against the not-so-good to help you decide.
Pros
- Exhilarating Performance: The 3.0-litre engine offers fantastic power and torque, making every drive thrilling.
 
- Superb Handling: Thanks to the M Sport differential, adaptive M suspension, and rear-wheel drive, it handles like a dream.
 
- Stunning Design: A true head-turner with classic roadster appeal and modern BMW aesthetics.
 
- Premium Interior: High-quality materials, comfortable M Sport seats, and a driver-focused cockpit.
 
- Advanced Technology: Loaded with features like dual 10.25-inch screens, wireless connectivity, and advanced parking assistance.
 
- Convertible Fun: The electrically operated soft-top adds an unmatched open-air driving experience.
 
- BMW Service Network: Access to BMW's robust service and support network in India.
 
Cons
- Price: Being a CBU (Completely Built Unit) and a luxury sports car, it comes with a premium price tag.
 
- Practicality: Strictly a two-seater with limited boot space for its segment, and low ground clearance for Indian roads.
 
- Fuel Efficiency: A powerful sports car means higher fuel consumption.
 
- Maintenance Cost: As a high-performance luxury vehicle, maintenance and spare parts can be expensive.
 
- Harsh Ride on Bad Roads: While the adaptive suspension helps, a sports car setup will inherently feel stiffer on poor road surfaces.
 
- Limited Customization: As an imported Pure Impulse AT variant, specific customization options might be fewer compared to other BMW models.
 
Conclusion
So, is the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT the right sports car for you in India? If your budget allows for a premium, performance-oriented two-seater convertible, and you crave an unmatched driving experience with style and advanced features, then absolutely yes. It's a car designed for enthusiasts who appreciate dynamic handling, powerful acceleration, and the thrill of open-top motoring. While it demands a cautious approach on challenging Indian roads due to its low ground clearance and high running costs, the sheer joy and prestige it offers are hard to beat. The Z4 M40i Pure Impulse AT isn't just a car; it's a statement, an experience, and a testament to BMW's engineering prowess. Visit your nearest BMW showroom for a test drive and feel the impulse yourself!