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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  Awesome Performance ! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By TurboCarrara - September 13 - 11:58 pm

  Great performance - braking, corners, pickup. Comfortable but stiff ride - but expected in a roadster. Actually gets better gas mileage than expected.

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  Landshark Rules the road - 2004 BMW Z4
  By BayAreaBMWFan - September 10 - 4:40 am

  This is truly the Ultimate Driving Machine. I have an SMG transmission which allows you to shift manually with automatic clutching. I have the control of the manual with no clutching hassles! With the Sports mode on, the car gives an amazing feel. The engine sound and in the gut acceleration really gets the juices flowing. The steering is responsive and the suspension tight this is not a touring sedan. I test drove the Z3 before buying this, and this car feels and drive very differently. It is a lot more powerful and "manly". When I look at it from the front it reminds of a shark & the Z4 rules the road like one. BMW leases are not expensive get a Z4. Money well spent.

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  Fun Fun Fun - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Scott - September 10 - 1:00 am

  This is a great car for driving in the wind and sun. At highway speeds you dont even get wet in a light rain or drizzle. Handles like a dream on the curvy roads in Austin. Cupholders are a bit odd, but other than that it is hard to complain. The 2.5 has plenty of oomph for the weight of the car, and the sport package was well worth it.

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  Whats not to love? - 2005 BMW Z4
  By woo hoo! - August 27 - 5:16 am

  I had the Z3. This car is a vast improvement. Hugs the road & corners much better. Smoother ride. Many luxury features the Z3 didnt have, such as rear glass window, auto top without anything to hook or unhook, xenon headlights, run-flat tires freeing up trunk space, roomier interior with new retro design, great cup holders! Better stereo sound than the Z3 too.

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  Most fun Ive had driving a car.... - 2003 BMW Z4
  By BeemerConvert - August 25 - 10:00 am

  I was in the market for a roadster, and was somewhat skeptical about the reviews I was seeing for the Z4. However, I was quickly convinced after the test drive I took down a hilly, winding road. The car I test drove was a 2.5 without the sport package. Still, I was duly impressed. A few weeks later, and I now have my own WITH the sport package.. WOW! is the best way to describe it....

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  Awesome car - 2004 BMW Z4
  By TEREN-Z4 - August 21 - 11:11 pm

  I fell in love with this car at the dealer. It was love at first sight. I went to look at the practical 330xi. I had a 5 series for my last 2 cars and thought I wanted the sporty 3 series with all wheel drive for the mountains of NC. I saw the Z4 and had visions of a jet fighter. It just looks so awesome to me. Well the test drive was even more impresive, I had to have one. The car is so great that we drove it to key west on our vacation rather than flying. It was so cool.

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  A BMW that should not be called BMW!! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By GQ - August 16 - 10:55 am

  I am leasing this car right now. I love it except for one thing .. The dealership had more than me for the past year. Why? The reliability has been very very poor to the point where I have to take it to dealership every month! Stereo going bad, top leaking, noise from door, trunk leaking. Sadly the quality I am used to from BMW is not present here. It is fun to drive if it was not for all things going wrong with it!

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  What is missing? - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Jimbo - August 9 - 9:22 pm

  Ive owned a number of sports cars including two Miatas and an RX-8. This is my first BMW since my 88 535is and it doesnt disappoint. Its performance is on par with more expensive cars, e.g., Boxster, but it is far less problematic and easier to live with in daily driving. It is comfortable, well-made, has a decent trunk and will run with like cars when asked to do so.

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  Amazing Eye Catcher - 2005 BMW Z4
  By BCorrupt - August 9 - 9:21 am

  Catches eyes at every stop light. Drives like a dream. Comfortable for shorter people, taller passengers may feel cramped. More trunk space than you would imagine for such a small car. Great car to drive on long trips.

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  This car rocks! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Jeff Wallowitz - August 4 - 3:07 pm

  My previous vehicle was an Audi TT. A great car that I absolutely loved. Once the warranty expired it was time for replacement. Decided on the Z4 3.0 manual. Car rules. I drove the 2.5 and I would call the acceleration spirited. The 3.0 rips. BMW has got the sound just right with a nice intake rumble and good pop from those chrome tips. The 6 speed gives nice shifts, although it feels a little notchy. You have to make sure you hit them just right. The top is if not the, one of the easiest to use on the market. No latches, fast, and no clumsy boot to take out of the trunk. A great car that I would reccomend to anyone interested in this type of vehicle.