Autoblog

UPDATE: Video removed at request of spy videographer. Click here to view.

BMW is hard at work on the replacement for the current Z4 roadster, and a developmental test mule has been caught on video running laps around the vaunted Nurburgring. Despite the heavy camouflage, we can tell from the footage – which seems to follow the test mule around the Ring and into a nearby garage with conspicuous "look at me" accuracy – that the new roadster, due in 2010, will retain the current model's long nose and short rear decklid. Styling is expected to follow the theme set down by the Concept CS unveiled in Shanghai last year, but the real clincher is that the new roadster will feature a retractable hard top. That means it will be heavier than the outgoing model, but will keep up on the marketplace with hard-top competition from above (Mercedes SLK) and below (Mazda MX-5). Follow the jump to watch the video.

[Source: Motor Authority via PistonHeads]

In the event that high gas prices begin hitting even the wealthy, displacement-loving, power-toting blokes among us, BusinessWeek has compiled a list of the top ten most fuel efficient luxury cars. The list, especially when you include the runners-up, is a diverse showing of both automakers and fuel types, with hybrids and diesels finding a place alongside with their gasoline-powered siblings.

• Mid-size: Mercedes E320 CDI, runner up: Lexus GS300
• SUV: Lexus RX 400h, runner up: Volvo XC/70
• Sub-compact: Acura RSX, runner up: Lexus IS250
• Compact: Audi A4, runner up: Volvo S40
• Small wagon: Audi A3, runner up: Volvo V50
• Mid-sized wagon: Volvo V70, runner up: Saab 9-5 SportCombi
• Two-seater: BMW Z4 3.0, runner up: Porsche Boxster
• Mini-compact: Audi TT, runner up: BMW 330Ci
• Full-size: Jaguar XJ8, runner up: Mercedes-Benz S430
• Truck: Lincoln Mark LT, runner up: Cadillac Escalade EXT

The cheapest among them to drive is the Acura RSX, with the A3 and A4 coming in second if you actually want to stow some junk in the trunk.

[Source: BusinessWeek]