Overview & Reviews

The BMW Z4 is one of the more intriguing sports cars available. It's the successor to the original Z3 and is presently the company's only two-seat sports car. Defining traits include a front-engine/rear-drive layout, a hunkered-down stance, a long hood and rearward positioning of driver and passenger. While the first Z4 featured a traditional soft top, the current Z4 model has a sleek retractable hardtop that makes this fun-loving roadster a more viable all-weather option.

The current Z4 also represents a slight change in philosophy for BMW's roadster. Not only does it sacrifice ultimate handling for greater ride comfort and overall refinement, but it also employs a highly fuel-efficient turbocharged four-cylinder as its base engine. The result is one of the most well-rounded sports cars money can buy. You'll need a lot of it, though, as the latest Z4 certainly doesn't come cheap.

Current BMW Z4
The current Z4 is offered with rear-wheel drive in three trim levels: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is. The 28i gets a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-4 that produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard, with an eight-speed automatic available as an option. The 35i comes with a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 good for 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque; its sole transmission is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual (DCT). The 35is utilizes DCT and a revised version of the regular 35i's engine, boasting 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque with a temporary overboost function that pumps torque up to 369 lb-ft.

Though the primary distinction between these trims involves what's under the hood, there are some other equipment differences. The sDrive28i comes standard with 17-inch wheels, adaptive xenon headlights, keyless ignition and entry, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power seats, Bluetooth and adjustable driving settings that change the programming for the steering, throttle and (if specified) automatic transmission. The sDrive35i adds 18-inch wheels, sun-reflective leather upholstery and sport seats. The sDrive 35is is similar but comes standard with an upgraded audio system and the performance-themed M Sport package (optional on other Z4s). Option highlights include heated seats and steering wheel, front and rear parking sensors and a navigation system.

In reviews, we've found the latest BMW Z4 to be an impressive and highly refined sport touring car, with a surprisingly roomy interior and decent trunk space as long as the retractable roof is raised. Although the turbo-4 makes less power than the old inline-6, it's got more torque, and fuel economy is substantially improved. Besides its rather agricultural grumble at idle, this is a sweet little engine. Should you want for more, the ultra-smooth and seriously quick six-cylinder models are bound to please.

The Z4 is generally a hoot to drive, especially if you go for the optional M Sport package and leave the adjustable drive settings in Sport mode. However, its reflexes and communication with the driver are a bit lacking due to a numb electric power steering system, a fairly hefty curb weight and a predilection for understeer. Still, we think most buyers will appreciate the Z4's firm yet compliant ride and accomplished all-around performance. A spirited top-down journey in a Z4 is a wonderful way to spend a sunny day.

Used BMW Z4 Models
The current, second-generation BMW Z4 was completely redesigned for 2009, as the previous coupe and roadster models were melded into one with the introduction of a retractable hardtop. The styling was revamped to be more curvaceous and fluid than the avant-garde first generation, while the interior gained some space, style and improved materials.

If you're looking at used second-generation Z4s, there are a few notable changes to keep in mind. From 2009-'11, the base Z4 was known as the sDrive30i, and it featured a carryover 3.0-liter inline-6 that produced 255 hp and 220 lb-ft of torque. The transmission was a six-speed manual or an optional six-speed automatic. This is a superb engine on its own merits, but it's not as fuel-efficient as the subsequent turbo-4, which replaced it for 2012 when the base model became known as the sDrive28i. The eight-speed automatic was introduced at the same time, supplanting the six-speed unit. As for the sDrive35is, it debuted for 2011 along with the M Sport package for lesser models. Finally, the sDrive35i could be had with a six-speed manual of its own until 2015.

The first-generation BMW Z4 was introduced for 2003 with controversial "flame-surfaced" styling. Originally, there were two roadster models available, identified as 2.5i or 3.0i. The 2.5i had a 2.5-liter inline-6 that made 184 hp, while the 3.0i used a 3.0-liter inline-6 that generated 225 hp. For transmissions, there was a five-speed manual (standard on the 2.5), a six-speed manual (standard on the 3.0), a five-speed automatic or a six-speed sequential manual gearbox (SMG). Standard equipment included 16-inch wheels (17s for the 3.0i), a manually operated soft top (with rear glass) and leather upholstery for the 3.0i. Major options included a power top, xenon headlights and a navigation system.

A significant update occurred for 2006, including the debut of the fixed-roof Z4 Coupe and revamped trim levels with new engines -- the 3.0i (215-hp inline-6) and 3.0si (255-hp inline-6). The Z4 Coupe was offered in 3.0si trim only. A six-speed manual transmission was standard on every Z4, while a six-speed automatic was optional. The largely disliked SMG transmission was dropped. Other changes included a retuned standard suspension for better ride quality, a revised final-drive ratio for improved acceleration and updated styling. High-performance M versions of the Z4 were also offered and are reviewed separately here.

Although we prefer the updated 2006-'08 models, every first-generation BMW Z4 rewarded drivers with an engaging driving experience. In reviews, our editors praised the car's sharp reflexes and quick acceleration, though the ride could be a bit rough -- particularly prior to '06 -- and the steering wasn't as communicative as some competitors. The Coupe possessed a slight advantage in terms of handling due to its added body rigidity.

User Reviews:

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  First impressions - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Illini_Fan - August 22 - 1:35 pm

  Bought a 3.0i after comparing it to the Nissan Z, the Volvo C7, and a few others. This car is very fun - the interior (beige leather) looks great. The 6-speed manual is smooth. Havent encountered any negative items in the 2 weeks Ive had it. Some minor things I think BMW should change, but those are convenience items and dont detract from the overall rating of this car. I really like it.

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  Making Time for Fun - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Z4Convert - August 21 - 11:45 am

  I leased my Z4 and I am very happy that I was able to keep my other car. My Z4 is for my pleasure excursions. Since I dont drive it every day, it is always a treat when I lower myself into the drivers seat. The SMG is the best feature. California is full of stop and go traffic so I dont have to deal with a manual transmission until I want to. When I hit the open highway, I really enjoy the ability to shift gears on my own. Not quite the same as having a clutch, but its the closest thing to the best of both worlds. My car has made me look forward to long weekends. Im already looking forward to the end of my lease and the ability to get a Z4 M.

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  Z4 - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Doc - August 15 - 7:37 pm

  Dont get me wrong. I bought it, okay? But... the Z4 is fun to drive and stylish, but cramped as hell, hard to get in and out. Bad gas mileage. Fast, though

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  The Drive of your Life - 2003 BMW Z4
  By jdimas - August 6 - 9:15 pm

  We love our BMW Z4. It handles well in all weather conditions and by far looks about the best of any convertible in the market.

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  Lots of fun - needs more storage - 2006 BMW Z4
  By LasVegasPhil - August 6 - 5:35 pm

  I have out about 500 miles on this in two weeks- took it over the mountains to go to court. Lots of curves and twists, and the car hung in there every step. I also own an 06 Boxster that holds the road better but cant complain about this car. Storage is always a problem in a roadster, but even BMW should have a coin holder/tray of some kind. Maybe should have gotten the 3.0 si but this car has plenty of power. Love it!

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  Z4 Coupe - a car to love - 2006 BMW Z4
  By whitby - July 29 - 10:49 pm

  This car is the answer to all those people who wanted a sports car but did not want a convertible. This is a true "grand tourer" with usable trunk space in combination with superb handling and performance. The new 3.0 litre engine is powerful with enough torque to make driving in the town/city easy. On top of all this the car is superb to look at. It somehow finishes off the convertible and makes it into a classy good looking car (always a plus when you spend this sort of money). It is comfortable for me (I am 6 1" tall) and does not feel crowded in the cabin. Handling is great due to the 50/50 balance and the steering nicely weighted with good road feedback (though not as good as the 5).

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  Blast - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Phil Adler - July 29 - 6:29 am

  This little car is a real blast to dirve. I have owned 535s, a new M3, MGB, 442 and numerous fun cars, but none as much fun as this little ragtop. It gives you total feel of the road, which when bumpy perhaps too much. But once again its a sweet ride. My Z is black with a tan top and while some are critical of the styling, I get lots of "I was admiring your car" and such. The 6 speed is smooth as silk and the 3.0 delivers pleanty of power. I cant wait to test drive the new M series. I cant recommend this car enough to anyone looking for a roadster.And your BMW dealer probably has a demo for you to check out before ordering. Thats what happened to me as a four test drive convinced me.

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  4th BMW Ragtop - 2004 BMW Z4
  By wayne holu - July 21 - 2:00 am

  We have owned three BMWs in the 300 series all convertibles, in the last 10 years. With each model, improvements were significant, as far as comfort, design, driving ease. The last model was a 330 csi which to us was the best of the lot.After driving the 330csi for the last three years, it was time for a new Beamer. After much family discussion, we decided to try the Z4. It is truly a finely made roadster. The Z4 drives and handles just fantastic, and the auto/manual transmission is a blast. Its a fun car to operate. Test drive this spirited Z4, and youll know why we have fallen in love with it.

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  Z4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By joed - July 21 - 2:00 am

  wonderful driving machine, i wish i had heated seats with the lumbar option, i love the handling of the car it is fun fun fun

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  Z4 3.0si Roadster... simply amazing - 2006 BMW Z4
  By JLong - July 20 - 1:26 pm

  We ordered our car, chose every option and all colors. We chose Silver Gray Metallic paint, Gray Top, Aluminum Trim, Heated Dream Red Leather M Sport Seats, Premium Package, Sport Package, Xenons, and a 6-Speed Manual Transmission. We absolutely love our car and couldnt be happier!