The new Z4 is tipped to receive a folding metal hardtop to bring it into line with the Mercedes Benz SLK and Mazda MX5 (Miata). For BMW, the benefits of the folding hardtop (security and reliability) outweighed the disadvantages of increased weight and less trunk space. However, there is also the possibility that both a hard-top and a traditional soft-top could also be offered.
Although styling details are being kept closely guarded, the new car is expected to feature styling derived from the CS concept including a wider and more pronounced grille and larger intakes up front. 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, though that won't be due until sometime around 2011. The naturally-aspirated six-cylinder is expected to be rated at about 272hp (203kW), an upgrade of 17hp (12kW) over the current sport model, while the flagship M Roadster - if it is built - is likely to get a brand new high-performance turbo six worth around 350hp (261kW). 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.
With more equipment and a bigger powerplant, the pricing is expected to rise to about 43,000 ($55,000) in Europe. THe Z4 currently starts at around $36,700 in the U.S., but that can be expected to climb past $40,000 for the next model. 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
Mon Apr 28 2008 9:15 PM
Paul says
It looks faster than the Camaro we saw last week.
Mon Apr 28 2008 9:35 PM
Gus says
Am I the only one lmanting the loss of a trunk that can hold a weekend's worth of luggage in a car where you can pu the top down on the WAY to a hotel?
I mean, what is all this cr*p? Are you telling me that if my wife and I want to drive up the coast to San Francisco for the weekend, we can't put the top down until after we drop the luggage off at the hotel?
I fear this might just be one of those "if they have one we have to have one too" things...
Mon Apr 28 2008 10:43 PM
Lexlife says
Love it! Beautiful design and great engine/speed. This car is making me reconsider another vehicle I had planned to purchase used as a weekend top-down runner for about the same price. This new Z4 may win out in the decision making process especially with the zero out of pocket BMW warranty. Can't wait until it's released.
Tue Apr 29 2008 12:24 AM
CK says
Gus you are always complaining about trunk space when it comes to metal folding roof cabs ;D
Tue Apr 29 2008 1:50 AM
Gus says
I guess I just like to put the roof down when I'm driving on a weekend trip, which I do a lot. Here in Southern California a hard top just doesn't matter, so maybe I don't understand the need...
Tue Apr 29 2008 5:55 AM
CK says
Yeah but if you live here in Germany, where it poured just a few hours ago, the hardtop folding thing is quite handy. And the remember this car comes from a german manufacturer ;)
Tue Apr 29 2008 8:22 AM
Alan says
Personally i think the security offered by hard top is brilliant. Here in Melbourne, Australia where it get's quite cold in winter with occasional rain, i find hard top more practical
Tue Apr 29 2008 9:17 AM
Gus says
Yes, it makes sense for some places.
I guess I wish they offered two choices, like on the Sebring. If they can do it surely anyone can...
Tue Apr 29 2008 12:02 PM
CK says
And now you know why Chrysler is so badly off Gus ;)
Tue Apr 29 2008 2:23 PM
ohmy says
well hard folding tops you wont get any trunk space, but soft tops you will, unfortunately, there jsut isnt enough space if you want a small retracable hardtop since the car is so small.....
Wed Apr 30 2008 2:45 PM
Gus says
Yeah, yeah, I know Chrysler has issues, but my point was, if a cheesy American car can be diesigned with both tops, then just about any car can.
I just hope that someday all convertibles aren't hardtops.
Fri May 9 2008 5:33 PM
EuropaCar says
Gus this car is offered as hardtop and softtop
Wed Oct 8 2008 11:16 AM
NoNameDenton says
Will the 350 hp turbo go into the 3 and 5 series eventually
Thu Oct 9 2008 4:34 AM
azlan says
looks great! but lazy person decided to put 3 series front light on it??? i dont like the think of a three series when thinking sports convertible. atleast put the m3/coupe front light on it lol.
Thu Oct 23 2008 9:54 AM
NoNameDenton says
Should bring the diesel to America and the turbo 4's
Leave a Comment
Login or register to leave comments.
Please keep your comments on topic. Your involvement is governed by our Privacy Policy and Terms.