BMW Z5 and Z7 being considered for production?

Car Magazine reporst the rumor that two new Z models will be joining the BMW lineup by 2016-2017: BMW Z5 and Z7.

These two roadsters are said to be in the drawing board and could be built upon the new flexible architecture that BMW and Toyota have partnered to deliver. Same source says that BMW aims to use the platform for at least four models: Z5, Z7, 6 Series Coupe and second-generation i8.

In basic form, the rear-end and all-wheel drive platform can accommodate four, six and V8 engines, both for front and midsize placement. From a design stand point, it can also support a two-seater as well as a droptop or coupe.

BMW Z5 would replace the Z4 which will no longer be back on the BMW lineup. In 2013, BMW CEO Dr. Reithoffer said that the successor of the Z4 would be built on a new sports car platform. “If the Z4 has a successor, it could be part of a new sports car architecture from BMW,” said Reithofer in an interview that also touched on the BMW – Toyota sportscar. The Z5 would also be designed as a two-seater, powered by four and six-cylinder engines. Performance is said to be between 211 and 367 horsepower, plus a hybrid option.

This is the first time that a BMW Z7 is rumored and this is expected to sit above the Z5 and could produce 650 horsepower. It is considered a spiritual successor of the amazing BMW Z8.

The 6 Series Coupe will also go through a redesign and a change in market strategy, to make it more raw.

The second-generation BMW i8 is also rumored to come to market around 2021 but with no mid-engine.