BMW release first details of new Z4

BMW group has released the first details of their new Concept Z4 roadster today, that the car maker says is pared back, free from distractions, and will provide a more direct driving experience. BMW has released details of a concept roadster with an emphasis on functionality and form. The press release from BMW focused largely on the looks of the car, boasting a design that is “undeniably sporty in nature” and “a departure from the BMW norm”. The new Z4 takes a new aesthetic direction from previous models, with noticeably sharper lines and a more angular form. Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design says that “the BMW Concept Z4 expresses the new BMW design language from all perspectives and in all details.” BMW has deliberately referenced design elements from some of its more popular earlier models. The broad kidney grille and headlights that are positioned higher up on the car is reminiscent of the Z8, while the inside of the kidney grille features an elaborately designed mesh that BMW says was inspired by the design of its 328 Mille Miglia. The roadster will display carbon fibre detailing in an insert in the central air intake and in the door sill finisher. The carbon fibre diffuser on the rear end adds to the roadsters sports focused styling. In regards to engine, BMW is remaining coy at this stage. Still, details of a highly anticipated model such as this one never stay secret for long, and documents leaked on Wednesday, and reported by the Car and Driver blog, give us some idea of what to expect from the new Z4. The leaked BMW coding sheet details a real-wheel drive only model that will come with a four or six cylinder engine. The entry level Z4 for the US will feature a reported turbocharged four that will deliver 187 kW of power. A more powerful model, the Z4 M40i will reportedly feature a 3.0 litre inline-six with an output of 269 kW. Both models will likely be available in automatic and manual options. The official release from BMW and the information leaked earlier this week highlight some key differences between the new Z4 and its sister model, the Toyota Supra. The new Supra is expected to debut in 2018. While the Supra will share an automatic gearbox and some electrical componentry with the Z4, further leaked details suggest the Supra will differ in its hybrid, four-wheel-drive engine that combines a BMW petrol engine with electric motors with energy stored in supercapacitors. Toyota has also refrained from officially revealing any technical specifications of their new model. BMW plans to unveil the production model of the Concept Z4 next year.