The Z4’s impending demise will leave a gap in BMW’s product lineup that won’t be filled any time soon. The last Roadster will roll off the production line in April, with no direct successor promised. So what comes next? The Bavarians are keeping a low profile, but there is a glimmer of hope that the fun cars won’t be completely ignored.
Joachim Post said Car Motor and Sport that a low-volume product must make financial sense to receive the green light. Regarding the “G29,” the Chief Technology Officer explained that the rear-wheel drive roadster came onto the market “at exactly the right time.” Things worked out in BMW’s favor when Toyota came on board to sell its own version, the Supra.
Although the two automakers continue their joint efforts with hydrogen fuel cells, a new sports car is not on the table. Still, BMW is giving enthusiasts reason to breathe a sigh of relief by promising that attractive vehicles are still on the horizon. While there’s no new Z4 or anything that could directly replace it, the CTO suggests a different kind of performance car could emerge:
“Our goal is to realize vehicle projects that are both emotionally appealing and profitable. Traditionally, we stand for products that offer maximum driving pleasure. Now we are looking to the future, but one thing is certain: we will continue to build highly emotional vehicles in the future. Maybe there will be other great models in new segments in the future that we don’t have on our radar yet.”
That’s refreshing to hear considering the Z4’s days are numbered and the M8 has already been discontinued. Luckily, Joachim Post added that the M240i and M2 aren’t going anywhere. This is in line with reports that production of “G42” and “G87” will continue until mid-2029. The 4 Series and M4 are also expected to stick around until the end of the decade.
Another dedicated performance model seems unlikely before 2030. BMW is currently focused on introducing Neue Klasse technology and design to around 40 models by the end of 2027. After that, the brand is rumored to expand its portfolio to include i1 and i2 entry-level electric vehicles, as well as a robust SUV with plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains, before the end of the decade.
When it comes to the “new segments” mentioned by the CTO, you are as good as we are about the future. Hopefully it’s something with two doors and a coupe roofline. However, Joachim Post may have alluded to electric M cars such as the M3 “ZA0” and the X3 M “ZA5”. We have also previously reported on the possibility of an all-electric M3 Touring “ZA1” as well as a potential X4 M “ZA7”.
Whatever BMW M has in store, let’s just hope it’s more desirable than the XM experiment. Anything other than the umpteenth SUV would be more than welcome.
Source: Auto Motor und Sport
