The addition of a folding metal hardtop will bring it into line with the Mercedes Benz SLK and Mazda MX5 (Miata), both of which have been updated in the past year. For BMW, the benefits of the folding hardtop (security and reliability) outweighed the disadvantages of increased weight and less trunk space. The folding hard-top roof in the 3-series cabrio adds almost 200kg to the vehicle's kerb weight, but hopefully BMW's engineers have redesigned it to be lighter for the Z4. There's the possibility that a traditional folding soft-top could also be offered.
Although styling details are being kept closely guarded, the new car is expected to feature lines derived from the CS concept including a wider and more pronounced grille and larger intakes up front. The photos show the car is definitely larger and more imposing than the current Z4, and the smoother, rounder look continues BMW's progression away from the heavily flame-surfaced look of earlier cars.
A long hood and a short rear decklid remain but the previous car’s circular taillights have been swapped with units that appear similar to those on the larger 6-series with including rows of LED detailing.
The engine lineup should include both twin-turbo and naturally-aspirated straight six engines, although there could be an entry-level model in Europe with a four-cylinder mill. The flagship M Roadster is likely to get a brand new high-performance turbo six with around 350hp. This is to ensure the M-spec Z4 doesn’t step on the toes of the M3. The Z4 range is also expected to pick up BMW’s new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission as an option. A 6-speed manual will be standard.
Expect to see BMW unveil a concept version of the car at next month’s Los Angeles Auto Show, with first sales tipped start in late January following a Detroit Auto Show sales launch.
Reader Comments
Wed May 7 2008 10:05 AM
Gunnar says
I'd say that they had that interior pretty well covered.
Wed May 7 2008 1:37 PM
Francis says
Sick a new color i wonder what they call it.
Wed May 7 2008 3:18 PM
CK says
Looks like double clutch gearbox in there.
Sun Jul 6 2008 7:31 AM
nick says
"while the flagship M Roadster is likely to get a brand new high-performance turbo six with around 350hp. This is to ensure the M-spec Z4 doesn’t step on the toes of the M3."
Bullshit ! It will get the same 4 liter naturaly aspirated high-reving V8, just like the previous (or current because it's still in production) model got the same 3.2 liter engine from the former M3. Or else it wouldn't be called an M anymore would it ?
Mon Oct 13 2008 12:39 PM
b59 says
I probably would also have to say that there will probably be the V8 in the Z4 from the M3 as it is lighter than the straight six engine so it makes much sense. With opposition nestling V8's under the hood. Such as the SLK 55 AMG.
Looks longer and a lot sleeker. Should be a cracking car though.
Sun Oct 26 2008 9:39 AM
flatspin says
The 3 series cabrio is based on a coupe body. So a considerable amount of chasis strengthening is required, which adds weight. The Z4 was designed as a convertible from the start; so the folding metal roof shouldnt add much to the weight. For comparison, the Miata hardtop retract is only about 50 lbs heavier than the cloth top. I'd trade 50 lbs of weight for the safety/convenience/looks of a metal retract roof. Might have to sell the Boxster when this comes out.
Wed Oct 29 2008 2:43 PM
NoNameDenton says
Starting to remind me of the Mercedes SLK
Sun Nov 9 2008 3:08 PM
azlan says
i like the old z4 better, well the fron of this new one is dam ugly..so was the old one but it was a mean ugly so it made it cool, but this is jst plain ugly. the rest of the car looks great.
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