BMW teams up with Toyota to create Z4-replacing roadster, which is likely to be called Z5
The BMW Z5 roadster has been spied testing again, this time on the Nurburgring racetrack. The car will replace the old Z4 in BMW's line-up, taking on the Porsche 718 Boxster and sharing a platform with Toyota's upcoming Supra.
The familiar set-back cabin, pert rear-end and long bonnet remain on the new model, although heavy camo means closer details are harder to spot. The kidney grille looks to be larger than ever, although the masking means it's very hard to tell exactly how it will look.
BMW has ditched the Z4's heavy metal folding roof for a lighter, more traditional fabric hood. This could mean it is being aimed more towards the Porsche Boxster and away from softer, more refined cars like the Mercedes SLC. The soft-top will gain a rear window for production.
An insider told us in 2014 that “this car will use the same lightweight body construction as the i3 and i8. And even with that type of construction, you can expect a price around the same as that of the current Z4."
BMW, which could receive a new 'Z5' nameplate to help differentiate it from today's car, is being developed in part with Toyota. The Japanese brand is likely to use the platform for it's own sports car of similar design. Rumouras suggest it could bring back the iconic 'Supra' name.
The Toyota version has potential to receive a plug-in hybrid model, with electric motors boosting output instead of a turbocharger. BMW should stick to its tried-and-tested 'Twinpower' forced induction, but there's potential for future crossover.
We could even see a turbocharged three-pot offered, borrowed from the new 3-Series. And don't be surprised if BMW's M-Division get involved later on for a new Z4 M.
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