BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive?????
06-20-11, 09:05 PM
#1
BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive?????
BMW Z2 to feature all-wheel drive?
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.
http://www.autoblog.com/2011/06/20/b...l-wheel-drive/
05-08-14, 11:28 AM
#2
BMW Z2 roadster coming in 2016 or 2017 - report
Could be front-wheel drive
Rumors about a BMW Z2 have been swirling for years but Car & Driver is reporting the model could finally be launched in 2016 or 2017.
According to their sources, the entry-level roadster will ride on the front-wheel drive UKL platform that underpins the MINI Cooper and 2-Series Active Tourer. This won't make the purists happy but the model is expected to be relatively lightweight as it will reportedly feature a conventional fabric roof.
Speaking of weight, the model could tip the scales at a little over 2500 lbs (1134 kg). If this number pans out, the Z2 would weight about 763 lbs (346 kg) less than the Z4 sDrive28i.
Engine options remain unconfirmed but the model would likely offer an assortment of three- and four-cylinder engines. There have also been rumors about an M variant which could have all-wheel drive and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops up to 300 bhp ((224 kW).
Rumors about a BMW Z2 have been swirling for years but Car & Driver is reporting the model could finally be launched in 2016 or 2017.
According to their sources, the entry-level roadster will ride on the front-wheel drive UKL platform that underpins the MINI Cooper and 2-Series Active Tourer. This won't make the purists happy but the model is expected to be relatively lightweight as it will reportedly feature a conventional fabric roof.
Speaking of weight, the model could tip the scales at a little over 2500 lbs (1134 kg). If this number pans out, the Z2 would weight about 763 lbs (346 kg) less than the Z4 sDrive28i.
Engine options remain unconfirmed but the model would likely offer an assortment of three- and four-cylinder engines. There have also been rumors about an M variant which could have all-wheel drive and a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that develops up to 300 bhp ((224 kW).
05-08-14, 01:18 PM
#5
Lexus Fanatic
05-08-14, 01:43 PM
#6
I understand what the current Z4 competes against. My question is what this Z2 is aimed at because I'm not sure how much smaller they can get with a Z2 when the players are as such:
BMW Z4 166.9in
Audi TT 165.3
MBZ SLK 162.8
So you make the Z2 smaller or make Z4 bigger? Who knows
BMW Z4 166.9in
Audi TT 165.3
MBZ SLK 162.8
So you make the Z2 smaller or make Z4 bigger? Who knows
05-08-14, 01:47 PM
#7
Lexus Fanatic
I understand what the current Z4 competes against. My question is what this Z2 is aimed at because I'm not sure how much smaller they can get with a Z2 when the players are as such:
BMW Z4 166.9in
Audi TT 165.3
MBZ SLK 162.8
So you make it smaller Z2 smaller or make Z4 bigger? Who knows
BMW Z4 166.9in
Audi TT 165.3
MBZ SLK 162.8
So you make it smaller Z2 smaller or make Z4 bigger? Who knows
Trending Topics
05-08-14, 02:02 PM
#9
Lexus Fanatic
Base Miatas currently start in the low-mid 20s, but loaded top-line models can run 34-35K.......the same money as some entry-level BMW and Mercedes products, though, granted, both the Z4 and SLK start above 40K.
Last edited by mmarshall; 05-08-14 at 02:12 PM.
05-08-14, 04:16 PM
#11
Looks like VW may want in as well
Audi considering sub-TT sports car
http://www.leftlanenews.com/audi-con...ports-car.html
A report coming out of Australia indicates Audi is considering launching an entry-level sports car designed to slot beneath the all-new third-generation TT. Small and light, the yet-unnamed sports car could be billed as a pure, back-to-the-basics driver's car.
While the TT rides on Volkswagen's modular MQB platform, the smaller sports car will use the MQB Zero platform that is currently being developed and set to be inaugurated by the next generation of the Polo subcompact hatchback.
"I can imagine a smaller car based on the [MQB Zero]," admitted Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi's development chief, in an interview with CarAdvice.
If launched, expect the yet-unnamed sub-TT model to be offered with several Volkswagen-sourced three- and four-cylinder turbocharged engines. Both front- and all-wheel drive will be available, and a range-topping S-badged model will cater to buyers looking for more performance.
If the rumor is true, the coupe will likely be announced by a thinly-veiled concept at a major auto show before the end of the decade.
In addition to the next-gen Polo and the rumored sub-TT sports car, the MQB Zero platform will spawn the second generation of the Audi A1 subcompact and a small crossover heavily inspired by the Taigun concept that was presented at the 2012 Sao Paulo Motor Show.
While the TT rides on Volkswagen's modular MQB platform, the smaller sports car will use the MQB Zero platform that is currently being developed and set to be inaugurated by the next generation of the Polo subcompact hatchback.
"I can imagine a smaller car based on the [MQB Zero]," admitted Ulrich Hackenberg, Audi's development chief, in an interview with CarAdvice.
If launched, expect the yet-unnamed sub-TT model to be offered with several Volkswagen-sourced three- and four-cylinder turbocharged engines. Both front- and all-wheel drive will be available, and a range-topping S-badged model will cater to buyers looking for more performance.
If the rumor is true, the coupe will likely be announced by a thinly-veiled concept at a major auto show before the end of the decade.
In addition to the next-gen Polo and the rumored sub-TT sports car, the MQB Zero platform will spawn the second generation of the Audi A1 subcompact and a small crossover heavily inspired by the Taigun concept that was presented at the 2012 Sao Paulo Motor Show.
05-09-14, 05:53 AM
#13
New Details On Rumored BMW Z2 Roadster
An entry-level roadster based on a front-wheel-drive platform and powered by a range of potent turbocharged engines could be brewing at BMW. The new roadster, which has been rumored since as far back as 2006, is expected to be called a Z2 and ride on BMW’s front-wheel-drive UKL platform which debuted in the 2014 MINI Cooper Hardtop and has since made its way into BMW’s first front-driver, the 2-Series Active Tourer.
BMW is yet to confirm such a vehicle is in the works but Car and Driver is reporting that we may see the car towards the end of 2016 or early the following year. If built, it would compete with the likes of the Mazda MX-5 and serve as a halo model for BMW’s front-driving range, although we’ve heard that an all-wheel-drive option is also possible.
While the recently spied M2 will target compact car fans seeking serious performance, the Z2 would be a fun model built in the same vein as the original Z3. The curb weight could come in as low as 2,500 pounds, especially if BMW fits its tiny three-cylinder engine under the hood. A four-cylinder would likely be the standard option in the U.S.
We think a lightweight and fun Z2 would be a smart addition to the BMW lineup. Pictured above is BMW’s Vision ConnectedDrive concept from 2011, which was built to showcase new infotainment and connectivity technologies as well as preview future design themes.
BMW is yet to confirm such a vehicle is in the works but Car and Driver is reporting that we may see the car towards the end of 2016 or early the following year. If built, it would compete with the likes of the Mazda MX-5 and serve as a halo model for BMW’s front-driving range, although we’ve heard that an all-wheel-drive option is also possible.
While the recently spied M2 will target compact car fans seeking serious performance, the Z2 would be a fun model built in the same vein as the original Z3. The curb weight could come in as low as 2,500 pounds, especially if BMW fits its tiny three-cylinder engine under the hood. A four-cylinder would likely be the standard option in the U.S.
We think a lightweight and fun Z2 would be a smart addition to the BMW lineup. Pictured above is BMW’s Vision ConnectedDrive concept from 2011, which was built to showcase new infotainment and connectivity technologies as well as preview future design themes.
05-09-14, 05:54 AM
#14
2017 BMW Z2 Rendered
Shocking, raw, full-frontal drivery.
http://www.caranddriver.com/news/201...-rendered-news
What It Is: A possible two-seat roadster, and the most attractive variation of BMW's new compact platform by far. Lightweight and compact, it will aim to deliver agile dynamics and, unlike the Z4, it will feature a fabric top. There's one bitter pill BMW aficionados will have to swallow: The Z2 is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, and thus a close sibling of the 2-series Active Tourer and the new Mini Hardtop.
Over the last few decades, there have been a small number of agreeable roadsters out there with front-wheel drive: the nifty Fiat Barchetta; the final two generations of the Alfa Romeo Spider; and, of course the Mini Roadster. They were fun, but not associated with greatness. Perhaps the BMW Z2 can change that.
Why It Matters: In some ways, this car will be exactly what enthusiasts want—a compact driving machine devoid of gimmicks, such as the Z4's heavy and complex retractable hardtop mechanism. The new Z2’s more serious design will have wider appeal than the retro-cute Mini Roadster. And the Z2 could help to reconcile BMW traditionalists with the brand's strategy to push forward with front-wheel-drive models. Furthermore, this car could bring a whole new generation of buyers to the brand, and we’d bet BMW has its fingers crossed on that point.
Platform: The BMW Z2 shares its platform with the new Mini Hardtop and every Mini model to come. A stretched version of the platform underpins the 2-series Active Tourer and an upcoming seven-seat derivative, and it will also form the basis for the next generation of the 1-series. With a focus on lightweight construction, the front-drive Z2 could come in not much over 2500 pounds.
Home > News > BMW > 2017 BMW Z2 Rendered - Future Cars
2017 BMW Z2 Rendered FUTURE CARSarrow VIEW PHOTOS (33) | COMMENTS (109)
2017 BMW Z2 Rendered
Shocking, raw, full-frontal drivery.
MAY 2014 BY JENS MEINERS ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN SCHULTE
524 SHARES
69 TWEETS
What It Is: A possible two-seat roadster, and the most attractive variation of BMW's new compact platform by far. Lightweight and compact, it will aim to deliver agile dynamics and, unlike the Z4, it will feature a fabric top. There's one bitter pill BMW aficionados will have to swallow: The Z2 is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, and thus a close sibling of the 2-series Active Tourer and the new Mini Hardtop.
Over the last few decades, there have been a small number of agreeable roadsters out there with front-wheel drive: the nifty Fiat Barchetta; the final two generations of the Alfa Romeo Spider; and, of course the Mini Roadster. They were fun, but not associated with greatness. Perhaps the BMW Z2 can change that.
2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35is
Why It Matters: In some ways, this car will be exactly what enthusiasts want—a compact driving machine devoid of gimmicks, such as the Z4's heavy and complex retractable hardtop mechanism. The new Z2’s more serious design will have wider appeal than the retro-cute Mini Roadster. And the Z2 could help to reconcile BMW traditionalists with the brand's strategy to push forward with front-wheel-drive models. Furthermore, this car could bring a whole new generation of buyers to the brand, and we’d bet BMW has its fingers crossed on that point.
Platform: The BMW Z2 shares its platform with the new Mini Hardtop and every Mini model to come. A stretched version of the platform underpins the 2-series Active Tourer and an upcoming seven-seat derivative, and it will also form the basis for the next generation of the 1-series. With a focus on lightweight construction, the front-drive Z2 could come in not much over 2500 pounds.
2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35is
Powertrains: The Z2 may be offered with a number of three- and four-cylinder engines from BMW's modular engine architecture; we believe that BMW will stick to four-bangers, starting at around 160 horsepower, with uplevel versions rated at around 230 horsepower. Beyond that, there could be a Z2 M that would make at least 300 horsepower, channeled to all four wheels. Potentially, BMW could offer a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo as an entry-level option.
Competition: Audi TT, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mini Roadster, Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ
Estimated Arrival and Price: The BMW Z2 could be launched in late 2016 or 2017; prices will begin at about $30K, with an M version to come in around $50K.
Over the last few decades, there have been a small number of agreeable roadsters out there with front-wheel drive: the nifty Fiat Barchetta; the final two generations of the Alfa Romeo Spider; and, of course the Mini Roadster. They were fun, but not associated with greatness. Perhaps the BMW Z2 can change that.
Why It Matters: In some ways, this car will be exactly what enthusiasts want—a compact driving machine devoid of gimmicks, such as the Z4's heavy and complex retractable hardtop mechanism. The new Z2’s more serious design will have wider appeal than the retro-cute Mini Roadster. And the Z2 could help to reconcile BMW traditionalists with the brand's strategy to push forward with front-wheel-drive models. Furthermore, this car could bring a whole new generation of buyers to the brand, and we’d bet BMW has its fingers crossed on that point.
Platform: The BMW Z2 shares its platform with the new Mini Hardtop and every Mini model to come. A stretched version of the platform underpins the 2-series Active Tourer and an upcoming seven-seat derivative, and it will also form the basis for the next generation of the 1-series. With a focus on lightweight construction, the front-drive Z2 could come in not much over 2500 pounds.
Home > News > BMW > 2017 BMW Z2 Rendered - Future Cars
2017 BMW Z2 Rendered FUTURE CARSarrow VIEW PHOTOS (33) | COMMENTS (109)
2017 BMW Z2 Rendered
Shocking, raw, full-frontal drivery.
MAY 2014 BY JENS MEINERS ILLUSTRATION BY CHRISTIAN SCHULTE
524 SHARES
69 TWEETS
What It Is: A possible two-seat roadster, and the most attractive variation of BMW's new compact platform by far. Lightweight and compact, it will aim to deliver agile dynamics and, unlike the Z4, it will feature a fabric top. There's one bitter pill BMW aficionados will have to swallow: The Z2 is a front-wheel-drive vehicle, and thus a close sibling of the 2-series Active Tourer and the new Mini Hardtop.
Over the last few decades, there have been a small number of agreeable roadsters out there with front-wheel drive: the nifty Fiat Barchetta; the final two generations of the Alfa Romeo Spider; and, of course the Mini Roadster. They were fun, but not associated with greatness. Perhaps the BMW Z2 can change that.
2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35is
Why It Matters: In some ways, this car will be exactly what enthusiasts want—a compact driving machine devoid of gimmicks, such as the Z4's heavy and complex retractable hardtop mechanism. The new Z2’s more serious design will have wider appeal than the retro-cute Mini Roadster. And the Z2 could help to reconcile BMW traditionalists with the brand's strategy to push forward with front-wheel-drive models. Furthermore, this car could bring a whole new generation of buyers to the brand, and we’d bet BMW has its fingers crossed on that point.
Platform: The BMW Z2 shares its platform with the new Mini Hardtop and every Mini model to come. A stretched version of the platform underpins the 2-series Active Tourer and an upcoming seven-seat derivative, and it will also form the basis for the next generation of the 1-series. With a focus on lightweight construction, the front-drive Z2 could come in not much over 2500 pounds.
2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35is
Powertrains: The Z2 may be offered with a number of three- and four-cylinder engines from BMW's modular engine architecture; we believe that BMW will stick to four-bangers, starting at around 160 horsepower, with uplevel versions rated at around 230 horsepower. Beyond that, there could be a Z2 M that would make at least 300 horsepower, channeled to all four wheels. Potentially, BMW could offer a 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbo as an entry-level option.
Competition: Audi TT, Mazda MX-5 Miata, Mini Roadster, Scion FR-S, Subaru BRZ
Estimated Arrival and Price: The BMW Z2 could be launched in late 2016 or 2017; prices will begin at about $30K, with an M version to come in around $50K.
05-09-14, 06:12 AM
#15
Mercedes may also want in
SLA Roadster Project Could be Back on The Table at Mercedes-Benz
http://www.autoevolution.com/news/sl...source=home-up
In less than six months, the three-pointed star will be introducing the fifth and final member of the Mercedes-Benz MFA (Modular Front Architecture) platform, in the form of the CLA Shooting Brake.
A number of Mercedes-Benz officials have tried to put our minds at ease by repeatedly telling us that the MFA platform will only feature five models and that previous plans about a new roadster to slot under the SLK were put on hold.
Well, you might want to take this with a grain of salt, but if our sources are correct, the Mercedes-Benz SLA Roadster isn't yet out of the question, despite the initial plans of creating such a model dating back to the first generation of the A-Class.
We're sure that some of you still remember the highly-talked-about Vision SLA Concept, a petite roadster that was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2000.
With a body constructed mainly of aluminium and plastic, the Vision SLA was pretty much a Mercedes-Benz version of the traditional British lightweight roadster, a style which was later put into production by the ill-fated smart roadster and smart roadster coupe.
Sporting a 1.9-liter engine taken straight out of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W168) and front-wheel drive, the project was deemed as unfeasible in that form for a number of reasons. The most important ones were naturally related to the fact that the original A-Class platform was too expensive to be modified in order to also accommodate a niche roadster.
Now that every single model built on the highly-lucrative MFA platform is or is about to be selling like hot cakes, the introduction of a sub-SLK roadster built on it has been again discussed at high level at Daimler, with an official ruling on the matter to be decided in the upcoming months.
A number of Mercedes-Benz officials have tried to put our minds at ease by repeatedly telling us that the MFA platform will only feature five models and that previous plans about a new roadster to slot under the SLK were put on hold.
Well, you might want to take this with a grain of salt, but if our sources are correct, the Mercedes-Benz SLA Roadster isn't yet out of the question, despite the initial plans of creating such a model dating back to the first generation of the A-Class.
We're sure that some of you still remember the highly-talked-about Vision SLA Concept, a petite roadster that was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show in January 2000.
With a body constructed mainly of aluminium and plastic, the Vision SLA was pretty much a Mercedes-Benz version of the traditional British lightweight roadster, a style which was later put into production by the ill-fated smart roadster and smart roadster coupe.
Sporting a 1.9-liter engine taken straight out of the Mercedes-Benz A-Class (W168) and front-wheel drive, the project was deemed as unfeasible in that form for a number of reasons. The most important ones were naturally related to the fact that the original A-Class platform was too expensive to be modified in order to also accommodate a niche roadster.
Now that every single model built on the highly-lucrative MFA platform is or is about to be selling like hot cakes, the introduction of a sub-SLK roadster built on it has been again discussed at high level at Daimler, with an official ruling on the matter to be decided in the upcoming months.