BMW’s New Z4 To Get A Folding Metal Top

Our spies have lifted the lid on the next-generation BMW Z4 – and the big news is that it’s getting a folding metal roof for the first time!

Look closely at these prototypes, and you’ll see that instead of a fabric affair, the new Z4 is following in the footsteps of its 3-Series Convertible big brother, plus its Mercedes SLK rival, with a retractable steel top.

As our artist’s impression shows, the car will also get a more muscular look. And the convertible has another trick up its sleeve. BMW isn’t content with raining on the SLK’s parade, as it will seek to outgun the Porsche Boxster with a new range of powerful engines for the car. These are likely to include the twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder unit.
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DROOPYSAKK - 4/7/2008 11:08:54 AM

-1 Boost

im sure this folding metal roof will really help the performance numbers

w209w114 - 4/7/2008 12:46:49 PM

+4 Boost

How so? They are a lot heavier than a traditional cloth roof.

jeffy210 - 4/7/2008 11:51:32 AM

+3 Boost

Granted that's only a 'shop, but that's a very nice evolution of the Z4.

Homer008 - 4/7/2008 12:04:46 PM

-2 Boost

w209w114 - 4/7/2008 12:48:51 PM

0 Boost

Although this isnt a bad looking design overall, Its definitely not as visually stunning as the current Z4 when it first came out.

That being said shouldnt it be called the Z5?

Notjustlex - 4/7/2008 4:19:43 PM

-3 Boost

It should be called the size 12 so the F_t chicks are not confused on which car to buy....

zorbeeze - 4/7/2008 1:17:41 PM

-6 Boost

Although this will add weight and slow the Z4 down a little, it had to be done. Cloth tops are hideous and they are not that practical.
Though this metal top will do nothing to help the Z4 in the looks department. The Z4 is the most hideous Z ever created by BMW.

Rupert - 4/7/2008 6:56:53 PM

0 Boost

I prefer cloth tops, for all the reasons you mentioned kthor.

zorbeeze - 4/14/2008 1:07:27 PM

+1 Boost

"Brilliant insights on a car that doesn't even exist yet"
The Z4 does not exist?????
Wow considering i've modified about ten different ones.
I must be blind.

BimmerFan - 4/7/2008 1:27:46 PM

+1 Boost

Maybe the metal roof will actually be a carbon fibre/metal combo for weight reduction? I much prefer the traditional ragtop for a roadster.

JRobUSC - 4/8/2008 11:02:03 AM

0 Boost

they're not even doing that for the M3 Convertible, there's no way they'll do it for the Z4.

JUGNU - 4/7/2008 2:04:43 PM

0 Boost

Why hardtop convertible when there is already a Z4 coupe. Folding metal roof adds more weight and also it will clinch sales from 3 series hardtop convertible.

BMW should do cloth top as it will further separate it
from 3 series hardtop hence giving coustomers more options and variety.

JUGNU

JRobUSC - 4/8/2008 11:06:04 AM

0 Boost

chances are it means there won't be a new Z4 Coupe, just like there isn't an SLK coupe (except for the SLK AMG Black). I really like the Z4/M Coupe, but they don't sell in nearly the numbers the convertibles do. It makes more sense to combine them into one car.

one222 - 4/7/2008 4:39:46 PM

-1 Boost

UGLU CREASES WILL NEVER SELL
YUKKK!

AgentOrange - 4/7/2008 5:08:35 PM

+1 Boost

The hard top vert will also kill trunk space..
Dumb, idea all around, BMW..

JRobUSC - 4/8/2008 11:08:54 AM

0 Boost

I understand trunk space can be a concern but if it was REALLY that important you don't buy a two seat roadster in the first place.

Besides, the hardtop looks cleaner, it's more upscale, and it's worked wonders for the 3-Series, SLK, and SL. I'm sure it'll do the same for the Z4.

bmwfan1513 - 4/7/2008 10:26:50 PM

+1 Boost

That would be nice. Nice picture.