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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  Watch em Stare - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Yesitsme - April 1 - 2:00 am

  Got a great deal on a fully loaded 2.5 Z4. They do sell them below MSRP. The ride is fantastic as is the handling. Took it yesterday in the mountains with plenty of winding roads. Couldnt get a peep out of the tires. Drives like it is on rails. I can clearly tell the difference on winding roads with sport pkg. The Carver stereo refuses to quit. After 200 miles in the mountains yesterday I wanted to drive more. The only sore things were my ears from too much music. It got 28 MPG to boot. W/ top up the cockpit is very quiet. I get looks everywhere I go. I now like waiting at lights just to see whos staring.

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  My Z4 opinions - 2006 BMW Z4
  By James DellAquila - March 27 - 9:31 pm

  I have only owned my Z4 for a month, but so far it has exceeded my expectations. The workmanship appears to be excellent as is the over the road performance. In short, I am glad I bought it.

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  Z4 - 2005 BMW Z4
  By jon - March 26 - 7:36 am

  the car is fun to drive with impressive performance and excellent fuel economy. Im 64" and 240lbs, and have all the room I could ask for. the car is comfortable for me on long trips, and I have no tendency to "kink up"

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  Jims viewpoint. - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Jim Mercon - March 18 - 10:19 am

  Ive always wanted a roadster. At 55, I finally decided to quit talking about it and just do it. Its been going on a year of ownership and I must say.....this is one awesome automobile. Everytime I drive it...its a transformation. The car is beautiful. It handles great! Its been totally reliable with zero problems. It turns heads. My daughter loves to drive it. Two of my friends bought one. Its been a blast.

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  Unreal! - 2006 BMW Z4
  By sa - March 14 - 7:50 am

  I can’t believe this car! I haven’t had this much fun driving since I was 16. Its beautiful, turns corners like its on rails, and you can definitely getty-up and go with this engine. Invest in the 3.0si - you won’t regret it.

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  Let it ride - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Stewart Brenner - March 11 - 4:54 pm

  At 73 years of age, Im enjoying the out doors more and more. Fun to drive and be looked at. Car moves out quickly, and handles easily. A smoother ride than you would think from a car thats low to the ground.

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  ITS THE BEST CAR EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By illjumpu - March 8 - 2:00 am

  THE CAR IS RELIABLE. IT HAS A GREAT EXTERIOR LOOK. IT IS SMOOTH AND FAST.

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  Solid improvement over the Z3 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Marc Beaulieu - March 8 - 2:00 am

  Prior owner of a Z3 which was also a great automobile. However the ergonomic improvements from the top to the trunk including the handling capabilities make the Z4 a solid improvement over the Z3. I loved the classic look of the Z3. The Z4s more modern look is starting to grow on me. I have not seen anything in the Z4s price range that I like better.

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  Vacation on wheels - 2004 BMW Z4
  By m kirdasi - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Cant find the time to get away from daily stress long enough for a vaction ? No worries. BMW offers "the great escape" in the form of the Z4. Sleek comfort and road hugging power combine for your driving pleasure that is sure to make any drive a BMW devote.

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  Best Car I have ever bought. - 2004 BMW Z4
  By jimpavo - March 4 - 10:00 am

  Fun to drive. Everyone who see the Z-4 tells me how beautiful they think it is. Very fast. Feels solid while driving. Very small truck. Need more storage. Otherwise, a truly great car. I recommend it for those who want to have fun drivi