BMW Z4 testing at Nurburgring, retains manual transmission

As expected with any set of spy shots, each new batch gives us our best look yet. We've been watching the upcoming BMW Z4 for months, but it's mostly been snowy shots at various winter testing facilities in Europe. Warm weather is finally here, and, as with any modern sports car, the Z4 has moved to the Nürburgring. Once final tuning is complete, expect a full reveal sometime this fall.

While we thought the new car would be called the Z5, BMW recently announced that it will be sticking with the Z4 moniker. The biggest difference between the previous and current model is the convertible top. The new car has ditched the retractable hardtop for a stylish and simple cloth top. The Z4 in these photos is fitted with lightweight wheels from the BMW M3 and M4 competition package. Interior photos also show a manual transmission, good news for fans of simple, classic roadsters.

The Z4 will likely have a mix of four- and six-cylinder power, pulled straight from the BMW catalog. Rumors suggest a hybrid variant and even an all-wheel-drive model, but we'll have to wait for a full announcement before those are confirmed. The Z4 will share a platform and possibly engines with the upcoming Toyota Supra, so look for more news on both cars in the next few months.

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