Next-gen Z4 coming in 2009

BMW’s next-generation Z4 roadster is due to arrive next year as a 2010 model, and contrary to numerous reports the new model will grow in both size and price. Heavily camouflaged prototypes caught testing in Munich show a car with a similar shape to the current Z4, with short rear overhangs and a long hood, but the test-mule was also sporting a folding hardtop. This is in-line with BMW’s plans to reposition the next Z4 into a higher price point as it makes way for the new 1-series cabrio and possibly a smaller entry-level Z car.

A BMW insider has revealed to AutoInternational that the benefits of the folding hardtop (security and reliability) outweighed the disadvantages of increased weight and less storage space when lowered. The decision was also made because of competition from Mercedes’ SLK and Mazda’s new MX5/Miata, which both come with hardtop roofs.
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carnuts - 3/14/2008 3:31:24 AM

+3 Boost

BMW should put them in rental fleets so they can artificially raise their sales numbers.


You mean like the Nascar Camry.

lol

Agent63 - 3/14/2008 12:30:25 PM

+4 Boost

BMW should put the Z4's up for rent for tourists who want to drive around the Nurburgring.

I like the Z4 Coupe though just not the roadster.

dlin - 3/14/2008 2:24:48 AM

+3 Boost

Z4 is all good, but I won't consider it unless BMW put in hydraulic steering this time.

MunichRob - 3/14/2008 6:16:02 AM

+3 Boost

The current Z4 is a love it or hate it car, personally I'm neutral with it & always have been, but I do like the coupe. Besides the 5-series I've been waiting the most for this vehicle to be redesigned out of BMW's line-up...Fingers crossed!

DROOPYSAKK - 3/14/2008 8:43:41 AM

-2 Boost

this is a major improvement over the first generation model. im sure this car is a blast to drive too, but its so impractical and overpriced.i think people who can afford to have this as a second or third car end up buying a sl550 or a 6 series.

Whelan - 3/14/2008 9:36:28 AM

-2 Boost

The Z3 and M roadster were the hottest little convertibles around. The flowing lines on the Z3 were just sexy. When they came out with the new Z4, it looked like the car had been dropped into a paper shredder, fed through a meat grinder, then put against a sanding belt. What a garbagy looking car it was and has been. Give me a Z3 anyday.

S4cabriofoxone - 3/15/2008 2:33:30 PM

+1 Boost

Why do they need a Z2? Isn't the 1 Series sporty enough? They'll cannibalize sales of each other, as well as of the 3 Series AND the Z4.

GTR35 - 3/14/2008 11:45:04 AM

+2 Boost

It looks very nice. As long as they give better leg room I think it's going to be successful.

rspect - 3/14/2008 9:34:39 PM

+1 Boost

well let's hope it doesn't look like this.

Corsis - 3/17/2008 9:50:48 PM

+1 Boost

I was hoping this was goign to be the rumored Z2. I hope they still make the a Z2. I dont think a Z2 would kill a 1 series vert. Most people i talk to think the 1er convertible is ugly, and i agree. Besides a roadster is bought buy a different person than the convertible 4 seater.