BMW will be introducing the next-gen Z4 in early 2009. Recent spy shots of a prototype testing new Munich showed a car with a familiar shape to the current Z4. Short rear overhangs and a long hood characterized the test-mule but it also featured a new folding roof and was slightly larger than the current model. This is in-line with BMW’s plans to reposition the next Z4 into a higher price point as it makes way for the introduction of a smaller entry-level Z car.
As reported yesterday, production of the new Z4 will be handled by BMW’s Regensburg plant in Germany. The move will enable BMW to produce volume sellers, such as its SUV models, in the US and take advantage of the favourable exchange rate. At the same time, low volume premium models like the new Z4 will be manufactured at plants in Germany.
A couple of years after the Z4 is launched in '09, BMW will add the potent M version of the car. This new model is in line to receive the new high-rev 4.0L V8 engine that debuts in the new M3. Other engines for the new Z4 range will include the 300hp twin-turbo six, as well as the smaller 2.5L naturally aspirated petrol six.
This artist's rendition of the car gives us a good indication as to what the final styling may look. BMW is expected to introduce styling derived from the CS concept across much of the range and this should also be visible on the Z4.
Reader Comments
Fri Aug 17 2007 8:09 PM
Gus says
That would be a VERY good looking car, indeed.
My question is this, what with the tiny trunk space in the 3 series hardtop convertible (barely enough for two briefcases with the roof in the trunk) how much space will this car have for a typical weekend getaway once the roof is folded? I mean, isn't that the point of one of these cars? Or do they mean for you to get to a destination, drop off your luggage and then put the top down? I don't get it. I think these folding hardtops have gone too far in terms of taking up storage space...
Fri Aug 17 2007 10:23 PM
HECTOR says
A little bit better than the current one. Still a chick car.
Mon Aug 20 2007 12:13 AM
NaBUru38 says
Gus, this car, like the TT or SLK, isn't meant to go anywhere, it's meant to be driven. You take the car, go up the mountains or through a forest, and go back home in the day. You can go to a restaurant, but not to a hotel. For a real trip, you get your first car. First world, they call it.
Sat Aug 25 2007 9:09 AM
Jim says
I have always loved the Z4, but not the Z3. These new lines, especially the front quarter, hood and head lamp treatments are very refined. I would love to have one!
Fri Oct 5 2007 12:38 AM
Mark says
The missus and I did a full tour of Europe in a Z4 last summer.. plenty of boot space. We could easily cruise round the alps and Monaco with the roof down too :-) Certainly not a "go back home at the end of the day" car.
Thu Mar 20 2008 7:41 PM
Steven Pettinella says
OK, I have has a (Z3) M-Roadster and now a Z4. I use the trunk! If they go to the 'folding tin top" design, you might as well have a hard top (no pum intended)... We buy these cars because they are open and we can go about errands using the trunk.... but with no trunk they become just toys and that is not acceptable. I'll buy and old convertible then with acanvas top AND a trunk.
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