Yahoo Autos BMW Z4 Production Has Ended
The Z4, BMW's famous two-seat drop-top, is apparently dead. The roadster was been around for 14 years, introduced in 2002 as a replacement for the Z3. It was built to be a fantastic coastline cruiser, while also offering the performance to back up that BMW badge.
Update, 8/29/2016: Per German publication BimmerToday, the last Z4 rolled off the factory line on August 22nd. Last month, BMW confirmed to Road & Track that Z4 production will end in August, though it didn't specify which date. The ending of Z4 production also brings the death of BMW's twin-turbo N54 straight-six engine.
The Z-series was added into BMWs lineup to compete against rivals such as the Porsche Boxster, Audi TT, and Mercedes-Benz SLK. While it didn't handle as sharply as the Boxster, or offer the TT's practicality, the Z4 was a great blend of performance and comfort. It was a car you could take to work every day, and have fun with on the weekends.
The Z4 was updated in 2009 with a more modern look, and a folding hardtop in place of the fabric unit. This iteration is now 7 years old, ancient by modern production car standards.
What we're wondering is, what will the Z4's replacement be?
We know Toyota and BMW are working together to develop a new sports car, one that seemingly would fit in the Z4's price and capability segment. We've also heard that this car could even be powered by a hybrid, all-wheel-drive powertrain. While that may be quite a departure from the current Z4's style, BMW doesn't seem to be afraid to embrace the future of motoring.
This post was originally publsihed July 12th, and has been updated.
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