BMW Z5 Caught on Shots, Might Add Hybrid Powertrain to the Lineup
BMW has sent the upcoming Z5 for some new tests and not at the cold arctic, but rather on the streets in Germany, a reason for spy photographers to catch in on shots, all wrapped in full camouflage.
This fresh batch of spy shots might give us a closer look on how the model would look in its final version, before hitting the market along the all-new Toyota sibling, in late 2017 or the beginning of 2018.
This test mule here is also showing the front and part of the rear end and indicates a more aggressive attitude and look as opposed to the late BMW Z4.
We are looking here at a more complex and evolutionary design highlighted by slanted headlights at the front end, long hood, downward sloping nose, as well as a fabric soft-top which would save weight and make room for a possible coupe version.
The rumor mill also states that the Z4`s successor would stand on a new platform, developed in a partnership with Toyota, which is said to spawn a Z5 sibling. The same platform is to be used on a future Toyota GT 86 as well. Overall, the car`s design suggests a much sportier look.
As for the engine lineup under the hood, the same rumor mill suggests the present of a hybrid mill that would join the rest of the four- and six-cylinder engines. However, the details are rather scarce at the moment.
Once it will roll out the Magna Steyr factory in late 2017, the Z5 model will become the direct competitor of the Porsche 718 Boxster, Audi TT Roadster or Mercedes-Benz SLC.