Familiar, yet different

With a fresh focus on the driver, the Concept Z4 has been designed with a stripped-back and uncluttered ethos, while still retaining the classic silhouette of a BMW roadster. As with all concept cars, one cannot assume this design will carry through to the production vehicle untouched — although, to BMW’s credit, the futuristic i8 was refreshingly similar to the space age concept. The classic long bonnet, compact rear end, and squat proportions we’ve come to expect are still present, but with the driver sitting closer to the centre of the car than previously. In the interior, we see a thoroughly BMW design, complete with the latest buzzword, “function islands”, grouping all the controls into relevant sections. Little is known of the drivetrain, except that it will be rear-wheel drive, but only time will tell if this new design language is enough to entice drivers back to BMW…

Photos: BMW