BMW Z2 2010

Ther German automaker BMW is preparing another iteration of their affordable open air roadster, the Bavarian version of the Z car, that competes head to head with the world’s best selling drop top, the Mazda MX-5.

With the release of the all new BMW Z4, the automaker has introduced a much more attractive version of their fun to drive convertible by trading in the rounded bodylines for a much more sculpted and angular figure. However as the cars get newer and equipped with even more features, the one time affordable compact sports car has turned into a much more luxurious and expensive vehicle straying from the original Z1’s roots. As automakers are looking to downsize their lineups in an attempt to move more units, it would appear that BMW is trying to tap back into what made the original Z1 so popular with a future Z2 compact roadster. Combining the agility of a lightweight fun to drive vehicle with the best in German engineering at an affordable price point a new Z2 roadster for 2011 would be quite a treat.



The sales of the Z4 are not at all satisfactory for BMW. As the Z4 was placed higher up in the BMW hierarchy than the outgoing Z3, the automaker is left with an unfilled spot in their lineup, one where the Mazda MX-5 stands out in a class of its own as an affordable, drop top roadster.

In order to fill that empty space, BMW will launch a completely new smaller roadster, with less than 4 meters in length. A lot lighter than the Z4, the new model will offer engines with no more than 2,000 cc, but instead will compensate by using turbochargers, that will allow for a top of the range M model to reach 300 bhp.

2010 BMW Z2
The low-end model will feature a 1.8 liters, naturally aspirated engine with 150 bhp, not exactly a supercar, but a moderate fast and affordable BMW, capable to deliver driving excitement.

The technical platform will be shared with the next generation Z4, but it will be lighter and slightly simplified for the Z2. Also minimalist in conception, the Z2 will not be entirely stripped down, and will offer goodies such as the active steering, dual clutch transmission or dynamic adjustable dampers.

The BMW Z2 will be priced under the $30,000 range and is expected to make its debut in 2010.

Price this car:
MSRP: $30000

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