We are starting to see the benefits of the BMW-Toyota partnership, which is just at its inception. The cooperation was announced in 2013, and so far, it has been based on the Toyota Supra revival and the creation of the next-gen BMW Z4. Recent reports suggest that the next BMW Z4 will not be a product of the cooperation of the two manufacturers. Instead of that, the Z4 will be the replacement also called the Z4.
So far we have seen the Z4 numerous times wearing heavy camouflage. We can assume what lurks beneath, but the new model will for sure sport the new architecture which will make it sportier. The 2018 BMW Z4 should debut later this year, and now, we have a chance to look at the first official teaser for the upcoming vehicle.
Teaser
We have followed the BMW Z4 closely over the last year and a half, and each time we spotted it, the vehicle looked closer to production ready version. Some people are speculating that BMW will launch a concept which makes no sense since the production Z4 is right around the corner. The teaser photo reveals a lot about the new car, so let’s analyze it in greater detail.
Since this is a teaser photo, most of the features are hidden, which is expected. However, it is slightly unusual since it looks as if BMW parked its new Z4 at the edge of some volcano with all the smoke covering the view. But let’s focus on what is visible. The new Roadster (or concept) will have an angular shape from the headlights and grille to the side profile. Sharp edges are featured on the side mirrors and wheels as well, which is nice design refreshment from what we used to see from BMW. The headlights feature a staggered layout whereas kidney grilles are wider but thinner than before. Overall, the new Z4 looks aggressive enough.
This vehicle will no longer come with the heavy hardtop instead of which a canvass top will be introduced. That will lighten things up in a positive way. Speaking of the engines, we expect to see several offerings, including a 2.0-liter four cylinder and 3.0-liter I6 units. The powerplants will be connected to a six-speed manual transmission, which will not be featured in the new Toyota Supra, plus, there will be automatic transmission also. We cannot wait to see the new Z4.
Exterior
When it comes to the test mules, it is hard to see through the covers, but it is immediately obvious why this model replaces the old Z4. It has a long hood, a short rear deck, short overhangs and a low driving position, while the vehicle seems slightly longer than before. We have already mentioned the added aggressiveness and its headlights, grille and side profile. The vehicle will have a muscular stance with both the front and rear fenders, which will be flatter. The rear fascia still doesn’t feature production taillights whereas the bumper is well-hidden.
Interior
Speaking of Interior, BMW will change some aspects inside, but a lot will be kept from the old Z4. The instrument cluster and floating instrument display are identical to the ones of the 2016 BMW 3 Series while HVAC vents and audio control are visible below. This is either a decoy or desire of the manufacturer to mix old and new. Meanwhile, the steering wheel has a large center hub, which will probably change on the production version. This peak into the cabin was not much, but it was more than enough.
Drivetrain
Engine options are unknown, but we have mentioned two possibilities in the middle of the article. The 4-cylinder unit will be used as a base model, but it will power some of the upper trims as well, while a 3.0-liter I6 will be reserved for the range-topper. According to several reports, BMW might even introduce a hybrid to the lineup, but the others disagree with this statement because they believe that German brand wants to differentiate the Z4 from the new Supra, which is more likely to come in a hybrid version as well. Besides the manual transmission, BMW will offer dual-clutch automatic gearbox which could send the power to optional AWD.
2018 BMW Z4 Pricing Details
The ongoing BMW Z4 costs $49,700, but we expect to see some increase. Even though it is too early to talk about prices, our guess is that the 2018 BMW Z4 could start at $55,000. Follow us for more information.
