2009’s BMW Z4: the lowdown
BMW is taking its Z4 back to the drawing board. Codenamed E89, the replacement roadster won’t be launched until 2009, but CAR Online’s spies have caught these unusual shots of prototypes testing with their roofs up and down. Contrary to other reports, we’re told this car is definitely the Z4, not a prototype for the bigger Z9 roadster that BMW is also developing.
So what’s new on the Z4?
The silhouette is recognisably a Z4, but the disguise is unusually thick, suggesting that the design might be more different than meets the eye under those same-again proportions. Some of the more unusual ‘banana’ swage lines could be toned down, but the E89 model will still be aimed squarely at the Porsche Boxster and Mercedes SLK. The Z4 remains a soft-top (the folding metal roof is reserved for the 3-series Convertible) and our sources suggest it’ll grow a bit too. As well as freeing up more space for passengers and their luggage, this creates room for a rumoured Z2 baby roadster in the range – BMW’s MX-5 rival.
And what about under that long bonnet? Can we expect a whole slew of gadgets?
Beneath the skin, we hear there will be active steering, adjustable dampers and a new twin-clutch transmission along the lines of VW’s DSG box. We’re told the chassis will be much stiffer, to the benefit of ride and handling. Other goodies like BMW’s Dynamic Drive and rumoured electro-hydraulic brakes are unlikely to feature in the next Z4, however.
Which engines will be in the next Z4?
Expect four different engines: • 2.0-litre direct-injection four rated at 185bhp • 231bhp direct-injection 2.5-litre straight six • Turbocharged 3.0-litre direct-injection unit good for 321 bhp • A high-revving normally aspirated 4.0-litre V8 with around 450bhp BMW’s direct-injection is spreading across the board, improving fuel consumption and emission despite significantly higher outputs.
Will there be a coupe Z4 again?
Sales of the Z4 haven’t always been lived up to BMW’s expectations and production was scaled back a couple of years ago; it’s one of the reasons the Z4 Coupe was launched, to swell numbers. A tin-top is due next time around, too.
What’s the new Z4 like inside?
Although the roof is down on these photos, we sadly can’t get a decent look inside the Z4 yet. BMW’s iDrive multi-function controller will appear, materials are designed to be of higher quality, and engineers claim to have made the driving position more comfortable. The roof will continue to be a fast-moving, electrically operated canvas affair, with fixed rollover hoops behind each seat, as witnessed here.