Autoblog

BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive?

Aaron Richardson — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Convertible, Performance, Europe, BMW

The BMW Z2 is on its way, despite not exactly being the darling of BMW brass. So says Britain's CAR Magazine, which argues that the German automaker doesn't want lose out to the everyman's small roadster, the Mazda MX-5 Miata, now that its own Z4 has gotten larger and more expensive.

According to CAR, unlike the larger Z4, the Z2 will only be available with a folding soft top, which should be good for weight but less so for refinement.

Fortunately, CAR suggests that any talk of the car being front-wheel drive has been killed dead. Instead, BMW's top guys are trying to make the choice between employing rear- or all-wheel drive to make the little roadster go.

A trio of 2.0-liter turbo engines are earmarked for the Z2, generating between 170 and 272 horsepower, and a couple of diesel powerplants with the same displacement are also mooted.

As of now, the report suggests that there's a lot of finalizing to be done in Munich on everything from platforms to engines, so stay tuned for more info as it becomes available. In the meantime, check out CAR for a pair of Z2 renderings.

BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jun 2011 15:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW plans assault on the premium entry-level segment with X and Y models

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:01:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Performance, Crossover, BMW, Rumormill

BMW's equivalent of Deep Throat has divulged a host of information on the marque's coming plans for its premium entry level range incorporating the 1-Series and Z2, and a new line of Y vehicles. According to the mole, Scott26, the 1 will break into three different levels: Traditional, Lifestyle, and Sporting. They will be underpinned by a modular platform that could be differentiated among models and also serve as the basis for the next MINI.

The Traditional line will include the 1-Series along with Active Hybrid and Sport Compact versions. Sporting will comprise the 1-Series and Z2 coupe and cabriolet, plus a Supersports version of the 1 and a 135i Lightweight Performance Concept. Lifestyle counts the 1-Series Gran Turismo, the X1, X2, and the Y1.

As Scott27 breaks it down, the full lineup will advance the capabilities of Efficient Dynamics, and a hybrid version of each car will be offered. As well, the cars will "resist the usual jump in weight by using lightweight materials and sophisticated bonding techniques." What would be weighty at that point is the number of BMW's offerings, with 12 cars alone mentioned here, not counting the hatch models.

And what is the Y1? Strictly a proposal at this point, the line would be for those who want more "identity and creativity" in their Sports Activity Vehicles. A "dynamic , lighter and more personal" SAV than the X6, the Y1 is laid out as a 2-door, 2-seat "hybrid of an X with the aura of a Z." Think of a de-Bangled X Coupe. Thanks for the tip, Andrew!

[Source: 1 Addicts]

Rumormill: BMW plans assault on the premium entry-level segment with X and Y models originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove

Michael Harley — Wed, 13 May 2009 11:57:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, Performance, BMW, First Drives

2009 BMW Z4 - Click above for high-res image gallery

The all-new 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster is the eagerly anticipated replacement to both the Z4 Convertible and Z4 Coupe. Adding to this pressure, the two-seater is also tasked with satisfying the enthusiasts who enjoyed the high-performance M variants, both of which are discontinued - at least for the moment. Autoblog just spent a long day behind the wheel of the multi-role Z4, dissecting the Roadster's styling, ergonomics, chassis, powerplant and handling. How does the Z4 masquerade as four different models? Is it a credible replacement for one, or all? Most importantly, will the Z4 appease the enthusiast? Find out after the jump.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove

First Drive: 2009 BMW Z4 Roadster grows up at the expense of its groove originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 13 May 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: BMW dropping a cylinder for next-gen 1- and 3-Series

Jonathon Ramsey — Mon, 11 May 2009 10:29:00 EST

Filed under: Coupe, Budget, Sedan, Green, Technology, Hatchback, BMW

The next 1- and 3-Series cars from BMW, as well as the Z2 roadster, are rumored to be getting a new range of turbocharged three- and four-cylinder gasoline engines as part of BMW's push to cut emissions and fuel consumption. Of the five powerplants reportedly in development, three are 1.35-liter three-cylinder motors developing between 163 hp and 241 hp, with the two 1.8-liter 4-cylinder engines putting out 273 hp and 321 hp, respectively. Sky Motoring says that the four-pots will be reserved for "more upmarket models."

While a 3-Series with a 3-cylinder engine has a certain poetry, it does give one pause. If Sky Motoring's numbers are correct, however, the top end 1.35-liter motor would put out 11 more horsepower than the current 3.0-liter in the 328i. That's a lot of power for such little displacement, and with brand perception issues in the U.S., who knows if we would even get the engines - after all, we don't get any of Mercedes' CGI mills. From where we sit, though, the smaller, lighter engine with its commensurately fewer moving parts could also help bring the sticker price of the 1-Series down - one of the major factors that has prevented it from gaining traction in stateside showrooms.

In any case, the new BMW engines are said to be at least two years away, so we look forward to getting more clarifying information in the meantime. Hat tip to Owen!

[Source: Sky Motoring]

REPORT: BMW dropping a cylinder for next-gen 1- and 3-Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 11 May 2009 10:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW Z2 concept to debut in Frankfurt featuring fuel-saving technology

Jeremy Korzeniewski — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:01:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Convertible, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Green, BMW, Rumormill

Late last month, the internet rumormill went wild with speculation that BMW would introduce a new Z2 concept vehicle at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Separate sources are now confirming those reports, though the production version isn't likely to hit the market until 2013. Built atop BMW's next-generation 1 Series architecture, which will reportedly be configured to allow for front-, rear- or all-wheel drive, the Z2 is likely to feature all of the German automaker's latest fuel-saving Efficient Dynamics tweaks, including a possible plug-in hybrid powertrain.

Joining the eco-friendly model will be both gas and diesel engines with 2.0-liters or less displacement. Perhaps most interesting is a rumor that the Z2 may get a sequential transmission borrowed from BMW's line of high-end motorcycles. Weight will be kept low thanks to heavy use of composite materials, and adjustable aerodynamics should offer high downforce when tackling the bends and minimal drag when motoring on the expressway.

[Source: BimmerFile]

Rumormill: BMW Z2 concept to debut in Frankfurt featuring fuel-saving technology originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 28 Apr 2009 10:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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REPORT: BMW Z2 gets green light, concept headed for Frankfurt

Jonathon Ramsey — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST

Filed under: Concept Cars, Frankfurt Motor Show, Coupe, Hybrid, Performance, Green, BMW

A little more information is out on the BMW Z2 that looks to be shown at this year's Frankfurt Auto Show. According to Auto Bild, the roadster built on the next 1 Series platform will be joined by a coupe variant, just like the previous Z4 - but unlike that car, the Z2 will be a radical rethink.

The car is the standard-bearer of BMW's Project i family, a front-engined, rear-drive car with a target weight of 1,000 kilograms (2,200 pounds) and containing cost-effective green and weight-saving technologies. Powerplants are expected to be a 1.6-liter four-cylinder turbo with direct injection and anywhere from 150 to 200 horsepower, a range-extended hybrid, and an all-electric setup with lithium-ion batteries.

According to one estimate, the base Z2 is expected to start at about €30,000 (nearly $41,000 USD), with the electric version going for €50,000 (almost $68,000 USD), largely because of the additional cost of the battery pack. (Note that all figures are based on Europe's comparatively inflated pricing structure).

The car is due for sale in 2012 or 2013.

[Source: Auto Bild (translated) via BMW Blog]

REPORT: BMW Z2 gets green light, concept headed for Frankfurt originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 26 Mar 2009 10:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW Z2 still in the works

Frank Filipponio — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:30:00 EST

Filed under: Performance, BMW, Rendered Speculation, Rumormill

Is the rumored little roadster from BMW on track for a 2011 debut? Auto Motor und Sport seems to think so. They even have a rendering by renowned artist Mark Stehrenberger to prove it. If we are to believe the rumors, the BMW Z2 should be closer to what the original Z3 was. That is, more of an entry level roadster to compete with the premium versions of the Mazda MX-5, compared to the more upscale Z4 that just debuted, which is more of a Porsche Boxster rival.

As we've told you before, the BMW Z2 would be based on the 1-series platform. To simplify things, BMW is rumored to be using a soft top rather than a retractable metal lid. The car will feature turbocharged and naturally aspirated four-cylinder powerplants in the 1.8-2.0 liter range. Horsepower should start around 150 and climb to 300 assuming an M version follows. There's even a rumored hybrid variant with its gearbox positioned between the engine and an e-motor pack. Active steering, a dual clutch gearbox and active suspension could be part of the package with a base price rumored to be around $30,000. The BMW Z2 could make its debut as early as latet 2010, which would give it a healthy head start over the rival SLA from Mercedes-Benz.

[Source: Auto Motor und Sport]

Rumormill: BMW Z2 still in the works originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 19 Feb 2009 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: 2009 BMW Z4 rumored to debut next month, Z2 on the way

Damon Lavrinc — Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:01:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, Coupe, BMW, Rumormill

One of the vehicles that was teased in the run-up to the LA Auto Show, but never made it to the floor, was the redesigned 2009 BMW Z4. Rumors of the Z4's impending arrival have been circulating for months, and according to a source inside BMW, the automaker might reveal the restyled coupe and convertible next month.

Drivetrain choices will include either a naturally aspirated or twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, found in the 328i and 335i, respectively, with an M version packing the M3's V8 and a carbon fiber roof. In addition to new front and rear fascias, a lower roofline and a ducktail spoiler, BMW is expected to employ a handful of stylistic differences to separate the Z4 coupe from its folding hardtop sibling. For 2009, BMW is expected to drop the soft-top Z4 and only offer the folding hardtop.

The rumored Z2 is currently in the works and could be available in both coupe and cabrio variants, and equipped with some form of BMW's EfficientDynamics system. The 1-series-based two-door is expected to be powered by either a naturally aspirated or turbocharged 2.0-liter four, and there's also talk of a hybrid version utilizing BMW's eDrive system.

UPDATE: BMW has put together a Dexter-inspired teaser site for a new model set to be revealed in 19 days. We'll know what's up on December 14th.

Gallery: BMW Z4 and 7 series - spy shots

[Source: GermanCarZone via BMWBlog]

Rumormill: 2009 BMW Z4 rumored to debut next month, Z2 on the way originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 25 Nov 2008 20:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Rumormill: BMW preparing Z2 roadster based on 1 Series

Noah Joseph — Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:29:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, BMW, Rumormill

BMW 1 Series cabrio: click above to view in high resolution

Ever since the Z4 went bigger, rumors have been circulating that BMW is considering building a smaller Z2 roadster. The time may be ripe now for the Bavarian automaker to introduce a compact sportscar based on the underpinnings from the 1 Series.

Reports suggest it would likely have a folding soft top instead of a collapsible tin roof like the upcoming Z4 replacement and a small trunk capable of swallowing just a weekend bag. Sources also hint that the Z2 would come exclusively with four-cylinder power, which could discourage BMW from bringing the vehicle to the United States where the assumption is that customers are not prepared to pay for premium cars with four-bangers. However, the development of new four-cylinder turbos potentially destined for American shores could make the Z2 a reality. Still, with the 1 Series cabrio available with the twin-turbo six, the Z2 could have its legs cut out from under it before it even materializes.

[Source: Autozeitung via Motor Authority]

Rumormill: BMW preparing Z2 roadster based on 1 Series originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 18 Sep 2008 11:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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More on the BMW Z2

Erin Mays — Wed, 30 Aug 2006 08:03:00 EST

Filed under: Convertible, BMW

AutoWeek has the skinny on the upcoming BMW roadster, which will sit below the Z4 in BMW's lineup, directly across from competitors such as the Mazda MX-5. Likely to be called the Z2, the wee roadster is expected to get BMW's naturally-aspirated 1.8 and 2.0L four-cylinder engines, with the possibility of a turbocharged 2.0L four. Equipping the Z2 with the turbo'd engine may be part of BMW's master plan to bring more blown engines to market -- a good thing too, as horsepower will likely crest the 300 mark.

Expect the typical BMW options, along with either a six-speed manual or an SMG with paddle shifters to be made available.

The sources at AutoWeek say that the new roadster is expected to be built at BMW's Spartanburg, South Carolina plant alongside its larger sibling, the Z4.

[Source: AutoWeek]

More on the BMW Z2 originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 30 Aug 2006 08:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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