2010 BMW Z4 [Spied Again]

Just hours ago, our spy photographers once again spotted BMW engineers testing the next-generation Z4 in the United States. Although still covered with camouflage, the prototypes give us a general idea of the size and shape of the next-generation vehicle.

Earlier spy photos revealed the Z4’s interior, and despite some camouflage, a few details could be discerned. For one, it appears the hand brake is gone, probably in favor of an electronic setup. BMW’s latest automatic gearshift is present, and there’s some type of iDrive knob visible.

Most attention has been paid to the Z4’s exterior — and with good reason. Many of the polarizing features of the current Z4’s design have been toned-down, for what appears to be a much more elegant look.

Chris Bangle’s fussy flame-surfacing seems less controversial, as the side character lines appear to have a more logical flow throughout the Z4’s surface development. The Z4’s twin-kidney grille takes inspiration from BMW’s CS concept, as well as the new 7-series, while a strong chin spoiler anchors the front fascia nicely. The rear styling shows that the current Z4’s Quasimodo hump is gone. In its place is a rear deck that resembles the 6-series a bit — only much more pleasantly resolved.

Prototypes spotted sport the retractable hard top, although new reports out of Germany tell us buyers will also be given the opportunity to choose a soft-top option.

Since the new Z4 rides on the same platform as the 3-Series, look for the Z4’s engine lineup to mirror the 3’s. A high-performance Z4 M will once again be offered and, for the first time, it is believed that BMW will offer a diesel-powered Z4.

BMW’s radical design revolution hasn’t always been aesthetically successful, at least in the eyes of the BMW faithful. But BMW styling now seems to be hitting its stride, recapturing some of its former pleasing proportions. It appears that the steadying hand of BMW designer Adrian van Hooydonk is getting the beloved Bimmers back where they need to be.

As we have reported before, the Z4’s production will shift from the U.S. to Germany when the new model bows.