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New BMWs spied in SA

Wheels24 reader Evert Haywood captured a trio of heavily disguised BMW X3s and the all-new Z4 roadster due for imminent release, in sleepy Lichtenburg, North West recently.

"They were really upsetting the traffic in such a small town," Haywood said, "trying to stay with each other but looking as though they had no idea where they were going."

While hard to see in these images, the new Z4's appearance will be significantly toned down when compared to its predecessor.

However, Haywood's images again confirm that the new Z4 - which will enjoy its show debut at the January's Detroit Motor Show but is expected to be previewed shortly - will renounce the traditional canvas top in favour of a retractable metal roof.

The twin-turbo 3.0-litre straight six and the M3's 4.0-litre V8 should feature in the engine line-up, and it has been rumoured that diesel power, too, will be introduced on the next Z4.

It's likely that all engines will benefit from BMW's EfficientDynamics programme that promises better fuel economy while reducing emissions. 

Also spotted by Haywood were three samples of the next-generation X3, which is also expected to be revealed in 2009 for introduction in 2010 and offer some stiff competition for segment newbies - the Audi Q5 and Mercedes-Benz's GLK. 

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