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Next-generation Z4 to feature a folding roof
By Yoann Besnard on 17 March 2008 | 
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According to company sources, BMW will unveil the next-generation Z4 next year. The next Z4 will be larger and more expensive than the current model.
The second-generation will be BMW’s serious attempt to increase its market share on the roadster segment as the current Z4 sales result suffers from a fierce competition. Like the MX-5 did two years ago, the next Z4 will replace its soft top a folding roof. The security and reliability offered by the folding roof achieved to convince the company’s executive to adopt it despite disadvantages such as increased weight and reduced storage space.
The future Z4 will grow in size and in price, leaving room for a a rumoured smaller roadster, called Z5 and based on the 1-series compact model. It is rumoured that a M version will be offered but like the former Z3M, it won’t get the latest M3 engine. Instead, the Z4 M will likely be powered by the twin-turbcharged 3.0-litre inline six from the 335i. The engine’s power output would be boosted to 350bhp.