The Toyota Supra has never been a cheap car. You can’t call BMW’s cheap either, and it’s shaping up to look like the new Supra/Z4 roadster that people have been looking forward to just got a lot less appealing. Pricing of the BMW Z4 M40i has leaked, and according to that leak, the car will start at $65,690 with the destination charge.
If that pricing is correct, it will be a major disappointment to fans looking forward to the car. That makes a significant price increase from the previous Z4. For the money, you get a turbo I6 engine producing 382hp. The M40i also adds in adaptive suspension and an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Comparing the Competition
We can hope that a base Z4 roadster might be closer to reality and this leaked pricing represents the fully loaded version. The M40i variant will slip into the price gap between the Porsche Boxster and Boxster S. The Porsche is the much better-looking car to my eyes. The Boxster starts at around $60,000, while the Boxster S starts at approximately $72,000. This places the Z4 M40i in a competitive but challenging position, as it needs to offer compelling features and performance to justify its price point.
The Z4 M40i’s turbocharged I6 engine is a strong selling point, providing a robust 382 horsepower, which is more than the base Boxster’s 300 horsepower. However, the Porsche brand carries a certain prestige and driving experience that many enthusiasts find hard to overlook. The adaptive suspension and 8-speed automatic transmission in the Z4 M40i are designed to enhance driving dynamics and comfort, but whether these features are enough to sway potential buyers away from Porsche remains to be seen.
The Toyota Supra’s Dilemma
Things aren’t looking good for the Supra if Toyota tries to charge this much of a premium. Many fans are already lamenting the failure of the BMW/Toyota tie-up and point at the price as the prime reason. The Supra, which shares many components with the Z4, including the engine and chassis, is expected to be priced similarly. This could be a tough sell for Toyota, as the Supra nameplate, while iconic, may not carry the same weight as BMW’s luxury and performance reputation.
Moreover, the Supra’s design, while modern and aggressive, has received mixed reviews. Some enthusiasts appreciate its bold styling, while others feel it doesn’t live up to the legacy of the previous generations. The high price tag could further alienate potential buyers who were hoping for a more affordable entry into the sports car market.
To add to the complexity, the sports car market itself is shrinking. With the rise of SUVs and crossovers, fewer consumers are looking for two-seater roadsters or coupes. This makes it even more critical for both BMW and Toyota to get their pricing and marketing strategies right.
Potential Market Impact
The high pricing of the Z4 M40i and potentially the Supra could have broader implications for the market. If these models are not well-received, it could discourage other manufacturers from investing in new sports car models. On the other hand, if they manage to capture the interest of enthusiasts and justify their price tags with exceptional performance and features, it could reinvigorate the segment.
The leaked pricing of the BMW Z4 M40i has raised concerns among fans and potential buyers. While the car offers impressive performance and features, its high price may limit its appeal. The Toyota Supra, sharing many of the Z4’s components, faces a similar challenge. Both manufacturers will need to carefully consider their pricing and marketing strategies to succeed in a competitive and shrinking market.
via Motor1
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