2009 BMW Z4 coming with folding metal roof

According to Auto Express the 2009 Z4 will be offered for the first time with folding metal roof, same way as its 3-Series Convertible big brother, plus its Mercedes SLK rival. Sales will begin in late 2009.

BMW will also add a new range of powerful engines for the sports car, including a twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre straight six-cylinder unit.

It will also be possible that the Z4 to be offered with diesel power for the first time, too. And a flagship M model could get the new 4.0-litre V8 from the M3 – although a broad line-up of four-cylinder and normally aspirated six-cylinder petrol powerplants will continue to be offered.

All versions will be offered with BMW’s Efficient Dynamics programme, which helps to cut CO2 emissions and boost fuel economy with features such as an engine stop/start facility. Under the skin, the platform is shared with the latest-generation 3-Series, so the rear-wheel-drive Z4 will continue to provide driver-pleasing handling.