Tokyo Motor Show - BMW

What was the star of the show?
BMW had no new cars at Tokyo, but wheeled out the Z4 Coupe concept which wowed Frankfurt last month.

It will barely change for production as a tin-top version of the current Z4 roadster.

When does it go on sale?
Expect the new car to roll into BMW showrooms next spring, carrying a price tag starting at around £25,000.

You should be able to take your pick from a variety of engines, ranging from a 2.0-litre four-cylinder to a rapid 3.0-litre six-cylinder engine developing a brawny 265bhp.

What are its rivals?
The Z4 Coupe is aimed squarely at the affordable coupe brigade, led by the Audi TT, Nissan 350Z and Mazda RX-8.

Faster versions of the new BMW will target Porsche’s newcomer, the Cayman coupe.

Best bit?
This is a BMW that looks great. Detractors of the Z4 roadster’s slightly fussy design should prefer the sculptured muscle of the coupe.

Anything else?
With very little new metal to show at Tokyo, the BMW group preferred to boast of its recent success. In the first three quarters of 2005, it has sold 988,000 vehicles worldwide – 21% more than two years ago. Much of that growth is attributable to its popular Mini brand.