it should be Z5, right????

They just changed the Z3's name to Z4 with the current car, I can't really see why they'd want to rename it's predecessor, yet again.

I also noticed that the fabric sitting on the roof fit a little too perfectly w/ no creases that give away the inner mechanical workings for it to be a softop, it's most definitely a retractable hardtop. This car will be hot for sometime even after it's launch for the simple fact that BMW's roadster now offers the best of both worlds, from a practical and aesthetic standpoint.

new pictures





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My precious sources told me today Mk2 Z4 roadster will feature a canvas soft top, while there be also a hardtop Coupe version - also as Targa variant.



So, 3 models: folding soft top canvas Z4 roadster, fixed metal hardtop Z4 coupe, and a Z4 targa.

That's a bit different Scott is saying.

No kidding!

This was the original plan set out , But as BMW management changed over the new CEO arranged a debate with the BMW board where they went over everything including change over from current production models to future production models.

It is no secret that in some parts of the world that Z4 sales are somewhat stagnant and US sales should be much better than they are .
when compared to the statistics of the Mercedes-Benz SLK the Z4 sales were very poor indeed. Although the next Z4 was to feature a folding canvas top The Board then altered their decision by changing the strategy for the next Z4 and offer it with a folding hard-top. In making this decision BMW have effectively made possible an introduction for a smaller Z Roadster ,
Based off the 1er architecture and more likely built alongside the Z4 , X5 and the X6 in the USA.

OMG, so my sources are not up to date on this one!



Have they missed anything else (eg. some other decisions made lately under Herr Reithofer's reign)?

BMW - incl. my sources - is kind a out of focus right now. Small mistakes everywhere (dealers & webmasters releasing 5er facelift info before embargo expiration, BMW Sauber drivers wearing WRONG BMW logos on their driving suits, ... etc).

Since Herr Reithofer's escalation to the top of BMW he has re-evaluated all decisions made under the previous manager mainly to keep focus on a strong and independent BMW Group which is what the ruling shareholders demand in the long term .

Re-evaluating the future Z4 was something that was completed when they analyzed sales figures from rivals to see what can stem such losses in the future. It's no secret that BMW want to expand the 1er product line to cater for the lower end of the premium market although since it's introduction in September 2004 over 200,000 have been sold not bad for a new product line from scratch. Critics might give their point that it is outsold by the Audi A3 and Mercedes-Benz A-klasse but these are second generation models they have had the established period they are also offered in 2 variants . The 1er is just until now a 5dr hatchback. An entry roadster would help fill the gap underneath the Z4 Given the transition of the Z4 to directly face the SLK .

Another item on the agenda was the subservant bowing to market requirements that are not necessary - ne the decision to transplant a manual gearbox from the 550i into the M5 Which is a total mismatch and compromises the attraction and the marketing which elaborates a great deal about the SMG Gearbox. This is why BMW have no plans to offer a manual gearbox for the M5 in Europe or therefore offer the M5 Touring in the USA.

The appearance of the M5 touring does offer one thing though...
There will be an M3 Touring.

Finally from the mouth of a BMWer that the manual M5 was a mistake.
Same as with the Ferrari F430 (or was it 360) manual.
Americans watch NASCAR not F1, so hopefully no more coupling a superb F1 inspired engine with a manual.

And what will BMW offer to their hard core aficionados?

///M models only?