The BMW Z4 scored highest in two separate studies that measure different attributes of the latest generation BMW roadster - customer appeal and crashworthiness.
Proving its 'appeal' to customers, the BMW Z4 has been ranked highest in its segment by J.D. Power and Associates in its 2003 APEAL study. Based on responses from 102,975 new-vehicle owners, the study measures owners' delight with the design, content, layout and performance of their new vehicles.
In further good news, the APEAL survey saw BMW of North America, LLC as one of the highest-ranking full-line manufacturers, second only overall to Porsche Cars North America, Inc.
The new generation BMW roadster has also been awarded five stars, the highest rating possible, for its rollover performance in the most recent tests performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in October 2003. Out of a total of 21 vehicles tested, ranging from compacts to SUVs, the Z4 roadster was the only vehicle to receive the top honors in this test. The car was also awarded a four star rating in frontal tests and a three star rating in the side impact test. The BMW Z4 is the company's first roadster to receive a 5 star rating from the NHTSA and joins the BMW X5 in this elite group.
Hennie Chung, Z4 product manager, stated: "We are delighted that the BMW Z4 roadster has been recognized by two distinct studies, J.D. Power and NHTSA. The J.D. Power APEAL award is proof that our owners appreciate the Z4's athletic, contemporary design, and its advanced, innovative engineering. We are also very pleased that the Z4 roadster has received the NHTSA's highest rating for rollover safety. The Z4 couples the best of BMW's active and passive safety benefits, with technological advancements for outstanding roadster performance."
