It was 2016 when the first report came out suggesting that the all-new BMW X4 could be assembled by Magna Steyr, and now we finally have official confirmation.
According to a release shared by the car manufacturing firm that’s based in Graz, Austria, production of the Munich-born roadster will commence at the end of the year.
For now, Magna Steyr hasn’t said anything about assembling the new Toyota Supra. However, since the two cars share the same platform and technology, it’s very likely that they will share the same assembly line, too.
“Our expertise in complete vehicle engineering and production makes us unique and the ideal partner for the industry”, commented Magna Steyr Europe President Gunther Apfalter. “We are very pleased that we can further strengthen our relationship with the BMW Group, and continue to solidify our overall position in the industry with new business like this.”
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The collaboration between Magna and BMW stretches all the way back to 2001. Two years later, and the first X3 rolled off the production line in Austria, followed by other vehicles. Since 2017, Magna is also making a part of the total volume of the BMW 5-Series, including the hybrid derivative.
Previewed by the Z4 Concept last year, the all-new BMW Z4 is expected to be presented this summer, at a standalone event. Subsequently, it will celebrate its public premiere at the 2018 Paris Auto Show, which starts at the beginning of October.
Given that it was already teased by the company, the Z4 M40i will arrive first, followed by lesser models. The range-topping model will use a new six-cylinder engine that’s expected to be a twin-turbo 3.0-liter unit, making some 385PS (380hp / 283kW).
Those not interested in the top-of-the-line grade will have to settle for a four-banger, rated at 180PS (177hp / 132kW) and 250PS (246hp / 184kW), in the s20i and s30i models, respectively.