Published: Friday, Oct. 30, 2009

Updated: Friday, Oct. 30, 2009

BMW

Hot news for 2010: The big news for 2010 just happens to be in one of the smallest packages. Say hello to the new Z4 that was introduced earlier in 2009 as a 2010 model. Ÿ Swoopy new Gran Turismo hatchback model added to the 5 Series line.Ÿ M power for the X5 and X6 wagons. Carryover: 1; 3; 5; 6; 7; X3; X5

Gone: None

Starting line

n While other automakers are bent on improving fuel economy for 2010, BMW is hard charging with high-performance sport utility vehicles, turbocharged V12 power for its largest sedan and a new Z4 roadster.

There are rumors that next year we’ll see the addition of four-cylinder engines to balance out the brand, but for now it’s all about BMW performance. To that end, both the X5 and X6 receive the “M” treatment, which means a 500-horsepower V10 and the related hardware to make use of it, from brakes to large wheels and low-profile tires. It’s the same engine that’s shared with the M6 coupe/convertible and the M5, which is based on the 5 Series sedan that’s joined this year by a hatchback Gran Turismo model.

The idea is to mesh as much practicality and style under one roof as possible. That’s really not the point with the new Z4 however. The new model consolidates separate coupe and convertible body styles into a single (and convenient) have-it-your-way configuration. The advantages of a retractable hardtop, such as improved weather/security protection, a quieter cabin and added structural integrity, are important assets when applied to a sports-car platform.

The Z4’s two-piece aluminum unit can be automatically raised in just 20 seconds by activating a console-mounted switch or an optional remote control button on the key. To provide sufficient storage for the new cover, more than five inches of length has been spliced into the back of the car. Despite the size increase and added roof hardware, the new Z4 weighs only 220 pounds more than the previous Z4 ragtop.