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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 - ONLY REGISTERED AND ACTIVATED USERS CAN SEE ALL LINKS - CLICK HERE TO REGISTER 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.

According to the source, a new ‘M’ performance model will also be available but it won’t share the 4.0L V8 engine with the M3. Instead it will get a more powerful version of the twin-turbo 3.0L six from the 335i and should output around 350hp, however it may get BMW’s new dual-clutch gearbox.

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.


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Looks great, very aggressive. Should be fun to drive with 350bhp in a car that size with rear wheel drive

That's what i like! Chop looks mighty fine (the front) and if it ends up similar to that i'll be happy. No more Z4 dissing from me, i promise.

The sides look very similar to the current model however.

Source : worldscoop

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There are similarities but not that much... more so regarding the rear wheel arches.

I'm with Tyc' on this one... if the new Z4 ends up with those much more focused and aggressive headlights, as well as a bit more aggressive front 'mouth', then I'll be an even bigger fan of the Z4 than I am now.
From the mules photographed so far, it seems as though the new Z4 will have a rearlight design which is a mixture of the 6er and 3er coupe. It seems that the outer-part of the rear light will have that 'wrap around' look of the 6er's rear light, while having the add-on red section on the actual bootlid ala 3er coupe and facelifted 7er.
I'm also expecting an aggressive and sharp crease running from the corner of the rear light and ending somewhere around the door handle (much like the CS Concept's sharp crease towards the rear third of the car).


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Hey Tycoon, if you think that chop is mighty fine, then I'd like to hear your (as well as other members) impressions of this quick edit I did...

Hey Shameel!

Nice work, bro. Although M3's bumper goes well with headlights and grille shape, i hope for something more aggressive on the new Z4.

Anyways, 1st i wanna see more aggressive Z4 treatment than current, mainly headlights and if that happens, i won't worry at all for the bumper.

Some new pics:







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The profile and proportions are literally slick. This is going to be a jaw dropper, i have no doubt.