BMW ditched MINI roadster plans, and will introduce Z2 instead. Still an official green light for Z2 project is expected soon.

Yes, Z2 is planned to be an entry roadster, Z4 a mid-range one, and Z8 a large one.

Btw, MINI strategists are seriously considering a MINI coupe. Some names already have been suggested eg. "Sportster" and "Spitfire" (an old Triumph name). Some sketches have already been made, and the design proposals look very much like mini Aston Martin. Yet no green light for the project as of yet. But mind that BMW & PSA are started another JV project: cca. 2L I4 turbo engine - for Peugeot, Citroen & MINI cars.

Imagine a MINI coupe with 200PS+ I4 turbo.

So, Aston Martin in MINI's size???

I definitely know what's my wife's next car!

I don't like the idea of a Z2. With the 2 series convertible and the Z4, that sounds like one car too far. Also not that crazy about the hard top folding roof. Hope it doesn't hurt the Z4's handling. If they really want to take on the Boxster again, they need the best handling car in it's class.

anyway, more pictures:





found at autoscoops.EU

this should persuade those who think this is the Z9. Compared to the driver, this car is too small, even with the camo, to be the Z9. AMS though still thinks it's not the Z4.

I laugh everytime I read that this is a Z8 replacement, because first off, it's not as big (check the proportions to understand what I'm saying). Second timing is precise for BMW to be testing a Z4 replacement as the current car is four years old and is to replaced in 3 yrs. I think the Z8 predecessor is going to be a much bigger car than what you see here with a particulary short wheelbase, nothing like what you see here.

I hope the real product resembles this- I may have to get a new car.

Why do they keep referring it as Z9?

http://www.worldcarfans.com/spyphoto...os-more-bmw-z9

Because they have no clue. Lehmann is very capable spy photographer, but he have no clue about cars and automaker's product plans.


The ultimate proof for all doubters:

Z8 will be of similar size as current Z8 & MB SL. Current Z8 width is 1,830mm, MB SL width is 1,827mm, while E85 Z4 width is 1,781mm

Now measure the prototype's width (with a help of this pic, and license plate width - which is standard EU plate of 520mm).

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Please, do!

And do not forget report the result!

Also check these pics - not the passenger: The car is not as large as it seems in some pics!



It's E89 Z4!

an odd question, why hasn't the F appelation been used instead of E for new Z4?
is the honor reserved to the flagship?

Thank you for confirming my suspicion Eni.

It seems like the Z9 would use drilled brakes as well, further showing that this thing is probably just the next generation z4. We're already seeing spy pics of the next 7.