Next-gen BMW Z4 spotted testing in Munich

The new BMW Z4 will be the first fruit of the German automaker’s collaboration with Toyota. The alliance will also produce the next iteration of the Scion FR-S. While the Toyota sports car will come with a hardtop, the Z4 roadster – as seen in our spy-shots taken near the company’s Munich headquarters – will sport a soft top. 

The new sports car architecture that serves both models is a highly scalable matrix that revolves around a single fixed point, the front firewall. The Japanese automotive giant will provide support with the electronics and optional hybrid drive for the Z4, while BMW will provide their expertise in lightweight materials and engines.

The engines range from 190bhp to probably the top engine with 425bhp in the Z4 M. In addition, there is an optional hybrid engine with up to 204bhp in Power mode.

BMW and Toyota reportedly target different audiences. The new Z4 would be a pure sports car withdrawing from the outgoing model’s more luxurious position. The Supra would be at the top of the Toyota brand's line up and could feature cutting-edge technology in addition to the bold styling.  

Design-wise, BMW will stay true to their roadster characteristics while adding polarizing and futuristic design touches.