First look: BMW munster-mobile returns!

BMW’S previous-generation Z3 Coupe was labelled everything from a breadvan to the munster-mobile and attracted a small but vocal following in Australia, where it was available only in M Coupe guise.

Second time around and BMW’s Z4 roadster-based coupe concept appears more mainstream than its forbear as well as a little Porsche-like – which is just what we expected for a model that will compete with a host of Mercedes-Benz coupes and the Boxster-based Cayman coupe also due to debut at Frankfurt.

According to BMW’s press blurb: "Considering the consistently growing market for high-profile premium sport cars, finally, the decision to build such an emotional two-seater Sports Coupe as a regular production model is almost obvious." Well, yes.

Like the Z4 convertible it’s based on, the coupe concept is powered by a front-mounted engine driving the rear wheels – in this case a 195kW/315Nm 3.0-litre straight six capable of propelling it to 100km/h in a claimed 5.7 seconds.

The fixed-roof showcar also features the Z4’s electric power steering but, as Porsche claimed with its Cayman, BMW says its "extremely stiff" bodyshell "ensures driving dynamics of the highest standard".

No word yet on a production version, which would be a certainty for Australia.