With a powerfully sculpted exterior and overall compact proportions, the BMW Concept Z4 is the Bavarian automaker's brand new take on what a roadster should look like.
On top of that, the Concept Z4 features multiple classic roadster design cues, like the long wheelbase, low-slung silhouette and compact rear end. It also has a short bonnet and "crisp overhangs", helping the driver sit closer to the center of the car than in previous BMW roadsters.
"The BMW Concept Z4 expresses the new BMW design language from all perspectives and in all details," said designer Adrian van Hooydonk.
"From the dynamic-looking front to the striking flanks to the clean-cut tail end; a few lines and the subtle interplay between surfaces are enough to generate a sense of power and emotion."
While the sculpted shark nose at the front was at least partly visible in previous teaser or leaked images, now we can also admire the Concept Z4's eye-catching rear end in high resolution, a rear that sees the car's flanks interacting with the flared wheel arches and L-shaped taillights, enhancing the roadster's sporty appearance.
Above the rear lights, the boot lid stretches all the way to the wheel arch extensions, while the large air outlets in the rear apron are meant to create their own "dynamic impression", according to the automaker. Last but not least, there's a carbon fiber diffuser flanked by a pair of angular exhaust tips.
The front end is at least just as exciting to look at as the rear, with a low-set broad kidney grille (featuring an elaborately designed mesh) that takes us back to early BMW roadsters such as the 328 Mille Miglia. As for the headlights, positioned higher up than on recent models, they spark a friendly association with the BMW Z8.
Moving on to the interior, BMW say that much of the cabin was intended to adopt the color of the car's exterior, thus creating a visual connection between the outside and inside of the concept - with only a chrome trim strop providing some separation. What's particularly interesting is that BMW finished the driver's seat, as well as the door trim panels, instrument panel and center stack on the driver's side in black, whereas the passenger seat, half the dashboard and the other door panel were dipped in orange, matching the exterior of the car.
Both the instrument cluster as well as the central information display are angled towards the driver and positioned at almost the same height, almost giving the impression of a single, cohesive unit. The driver can also receive information in his or her direct field of view via the concept's Head-Up Display. Overall, none of the controls are meant to distract from the driving experience, which is why trim elements within the cabin are also minimalist in nature.
In the end, the Concept Z4 is simply meant to offer a preview of the series-production version, which is set to be unveiled sometime next year.
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