BMW Z4 concept struts its stuff at the Frankfurt auto show

After making its debut in Pebble Beach earlier this year, BMW's Z4 concept makes an appearance on the automaker's home turf at the 2017 Frankfurt auto show.

Where the production Z4 features a retractable hardtop, the concept makes do with a speedster's fixed open top and dual roll hoops.

It's amazing how this front end, which features many of the same design hallmarks as the 8 Series concept, can look so very different.

At this point, BMW's not talking specs, but we know that the new rear-drive platform was developed in a joint venture with Toyota and will also underpin the next-generation Toyota Supra.

Expect some version of the automaker's turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines to find a place under the elongated hood.

The concept's design integrates a duck-tail spoiler into the trunk's lid.

Peer into the cabin to find a driver-centric cockpit with a two-tone design. The driver's seat and control surfaces are dark gray, while the passenger's seat and space feature a copper color that matches the exterior.

Character lines stretch away from the surface in a manner that reminds me of the fabric-clad BMW Light GINA concept from many years ago.

The proportions and overall style are reminiscent of the previous generation Z4, but BMW also draws inspiration from the short-lived Z8 roadster.

We expect to learn more about the production car this concept spawns sometime next year. In the meantime, keep clicking for even more photos from Frankfurt.