At the rapid rate that BMW is expanding its lineup, don’t be surprised to see a smaller roadster offering by 2016.
That model, which is the BMW Z2, has been rumored for several years now and will likely become a reality in the next couple of years. But those looking for a convertible with plenty of rear-wheel drive punch might be disappointed to hear that the Z2 will likely be a front-wheel drive model, making it a close sibling to the 2 Series Active Tourer and the new MINI hardtop.
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That’s not to say the BMW Z2 can’t be fun to drive despite being front-wheel drive. The Z2 will share its platform with the new MINI hardtop and will be focused on a lightweight design so that it tips the scales at around 2,500 lbs. Expect a number of three- and four-cylinder engines to be available with the base model offering around 160 hp while higher-range models will have around 230 hp.
The new roadster is expected to launch in late 2016 or 2017 and will have a starting price around $30,000. As always, an M variant is a possibility with at least 300 hp, all-wheel drive and a $50,000 price tag.
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[Source: Car and Driver]
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