2009 BMW Z4 not far away – Z2 on the horizon

Rumours abound that BMW's long-awaited update to the Z4 is just around the corner, while a smaller 'Z2' is also said to be in the pipeline (better get in quick if you want to snaffle that number plate).

The next-gen Z4 roadster will apparently ditch the soft-top of the current model in favour of a folding hardtop, while the Z4 Coupe will feature a number of structural and cosmetic changes to make it lighter, stiffer and more visually distinct from the convertible.

The Z4's engine lineup is likely to include BMW's excellent 3.0 litre inline-six, however whether the hi-po twin-turbo version makes it into the Z4 isn't a dead certainty just yet. An M variant is also rumoured to be in the works, which will be based on the Z4 Coupe and feature, among other things, a carbon-fibre roof and the M3's 309kW 4-litre V8.

The little-sister Z2 is also rumoured to be not far away. Internet scuttlebutt suggests that the 1-Series based two-door will be propelled by a naturally aspirated or possibly turbocharged 2.0 litre inline four and come in both roadster and coupe form. A hybrid version is also said to be under development, and BMW is reportedly keen to make the Z2 one of the first hybrid sports cars on the market.

Perhaps the strongest indicator that the Z4 isn't far away is BMW's latest teaser campaign. Aside from being heavily influenced by both Dexter and Jackson Pollock the video doesn't say much, other than that we can expect something "joyous" on December 15. Stay tuned then for a serving of joy; we'll have more for you soon.