Much is expected of...

Much is expected of the next-generation Z4, which faces stiff competition from the likes of the Porsche Boxster, forthcoming Audi TT Roadster and Nissan 350Z Roadster

The car is set to get a curvy, fresh look. According to our sources, the so-called "flame surfacing" design philosophy of the current model, which made shockwaves at its launch in 2003, will be toned down in favour of a sleeker new style. The car will follow the lead of its bigger 3-Series and 6-Series siblings, with the firm expected to adopt a more shapely appearance.

Based on a revised 6-Series platform, which will make the most of BMW"s growing expertise with aluminium, the model will feature six and eight-cylinder motors. Engineers are also said to be considering both traditional soft-top and modern folding hard-top configurations. The current machine shunned the fashion for the latter in favour of a rag-top design, and if the company goes down this route again, stylists will be able to retain the long-nosed proportions of the existing car. However, using a soft-top would be in direct contrast to key rival the Mercedes SLK, which has used a clever folding hard-top since its introduction in 1996.

Much is expected of the next-generation Z4, which faces stiff competition from the likes of the Porsche Boxster, forthcoming Audi TT Roadster and Nissan 350Z Roadster. Meanwhile, rum-ours of a name change - to Z6 - appear wide of the mark. Insiders confirm that the numerical system adopted by the brand relates to size, and a Z6 badge would suggest a 6-Series-scale model.

The sporty two-seater will borrow its engines from its 3-Series saloon stablemate, but fans of the Bavarian brand will have to be patient because the new Z4 is not expected to hit showrooms until 2009.