Zagato Enhances BMW M4 Convertible with Signature Double Bubble Roof

While Zagato is renowned for crafting exquisite shooting brakes, their latest offering unveiled at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este was a collaborative BMW project centered around the M8. The esteemed Italian coachbuilder presented another unique creation at the prestigious Lake Como event, featuring a BMW as its core. Introducing the Bovensiepen Zagato.

The Bovensiepen name may ring a bell as it was established by brothers Andreas and Florian Bovensiepen, the sons of the late Burkard Bovensiepen, founder of Alpina, who passed away in October 2023. With Alpina now under the BMW Group, the Bovensiepen brothers have launched a new venture based in Buchloe. Their inaugural endeavor is a partnership with Zagato, using the M4 as the base.

Instead of the standard coupe, Bovensiepen opted for the convertible chassis, eliminating its electrically retractable fabric roof. This choice is evident as the design lacks B-pillars and features smaller rear-side windows that retract, accentuating the unique look of a pillarless coupe.

Distinctive Design Elements

Zagato introduced their iconic double-bubble roof—a style reminiscent of the 1950s—replacing the original soft top. The smoothly curved rear glass and integrated spoiler indicate that this isn't just any M4. Newly designed 20-inch forged wheels set it apart from the standard model, though the laser taillights still betray its M4 lineage despite the entirely new bodywork.

The majority of the exterior panels are constructed from carbon fiber, and the front has been redesigned with a longer hood and a U-shaped vent. The minimalist approach to kidney grilles offers a refreshing change from BMW's usual styling. In comparison, BMW's contemporary M4 features a different take on the debated front grille. In celebration of the M's 50th anniversary in 2022, BMW released the retro-inspired 3.0 CSL. The question remains: which interpretation stands out more effectively?

Enhanced Aerodynamics and Interior

The collaboration between Bovensiepen and Zagato also resulted in a more aggressive rear diffuser, accompanied by dual exhausts from a lightweight titanium Akrapovič system, reducing weight by 40% compared to the standard M4 exhaust. The seamless wraparound design gives the car a distinct identity, while the interior retains unmistakable BMW elements. The cabin is adorned with blue leather and Alcantara, though the detailing can't completely mask its BMW heritage, which remains a positive attribute.

Powering the vehicle is an upgraded S58 engine: a twin-turbo 3.0-liter inline-six delivering 602 horsepower and 516 lb-ft (700 Nm) of torque. This surpasses the horsepower of the 3.0 CSL, making it BMW's most potent inline-six production car to date, and it also offers more torque than the M4 CS. Bovensiepen claims a 0-62 mph (100 km/h) sprint time of 3.3 seconds and a top speed exceeding 186 mph (300 km/h). As a derivative of the M4 Convertible, this new Italian-styled coupe is exclusively offered with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive.

Exquisite Craftsmanship and Future Prospects

Transforming the M4 Convertible into the Bovensiepen Zagato requires over 250 hours of meticulous work, suggesting it will be a premium investment. Pricing and production details are expected to be revealed in the fourth quarter of this year, with deliveries slated to begin in the second quarter of next year. Considering the base M4 Convertible in the U.S. starts near $100,000, this limited-edition grand tourer is set to enter the high six-figure range.

Zagato's last collaboration with BMW dates back to 2012, when they introduced coupe and roadster versions based on the second-generation Z4 (E89) at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este and Pebble Beach, respectively. Unlike the Bovensiepen Zagato, those concepts did not reach production.

Regarding the future of the iconic Alpina brand, BMW plans to elevate the niche marque further into the luxury segment. This strategic move aims to position Alpina as an intermediary between BMW and Rolls-Royce, potentially phasing out lower-tier models based on the 3 Series and 4 Series. Consequently, the revamped Alpina is expected to concentrate on BMW’s flagship models, such as the 7 Series and X7.