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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  Best Value - 2005 BMW Z4
  By IMMAJ - June 2 - 1:06 pm

  This car has the quickest top retraction in the industry: 7 seconds! It handles well, comfortable (except when the top is up and you get out of the car. But overall, a great value and a sexy ride. The only design change I would do is revise the back of the car like the Z8.

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  ZED vs BOX - 2003 BMW Z4
  By REDZ Z - June 1 - 2:00 am

  Well, whatll it be? The ZED or Boxster? I wanted to buy a "high-end" roadster for my wifes birthday recently. The Boxster has an uncanny sense of balance but, the ZED is faster, has much more torque, more responsive, more civilized, newer design, has more safety options, and plain sexier than the Boxster. Topless in the sun, tunes blasting from the absolutely fantastic audiophile Carver sound system. What could be better therapy? Sunshine, Miles Davis tooting his horn, top down, and high-speed corner carving on one of the Car & Driver?s Top Ten Roads, in a drop dead gorgeous Sterling 3.0 litre with the Sport Button engaged!!! Is this a great roadster or what?!!!

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  Z 4, 3.0 Alpine white/sports package - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Michael McDonough - May 28 - 10:54 pm

  The car was a total blast. Love the cockpit...interior layout was excellent. Felt as if I was flying. Never got so many stares. Love the long hood, reminded me of the old jag XKEs.

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  Recommended - 2003 BMW Z4
  By RedZ4 - May 25 - 8:26 pm

  No regrets! My 2003 2.5i has been a pleasure to own and drive for the past two years. The car remains tight without squeeks and remains trouble free! The manual top can be lowered or raised quickly and easliy with only one hand and glass in the rear window is nice - but why should you care because the top will always be down.

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  excessive noise - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Don - May 20 - 8:44 am

  I actually bought this as "Mothers Day Gift" for my wife last year. She actually gets to drive it once in a while. The only complaint I have is the excessive noise that comes from from the passenger seat when my wife is riding with me. "Are you crazy?" "Slow down!" "I am NEVER riding with you again in this car!!" often can be heard even over the sound of the engine as I shift through the five gears. My only regret now is that I did not buy the 3.0 for a little boost.

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  Why all the negative press? - 2005 BMW Z4
  By DropTopZ4 - May 18 - 3:02 pm

  Actually purchased June 2003, factory order. This is a great car, provided that you spring for the bigger engine. Love the Sport Package, power top, kickin stereo, gearbox. The ride can be stiff due to the run-flats but Sport Mode eliminates some of the bobbing. Stylish, fast, gets lots of attention. Clutch catches too high. Drive fast to reveal its true sports car personality.

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  My Z4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By halle - May 14 - 2:00 am

  There is nothing like dropping the top on a brisk fall day and hitting the highway. I love the sound of the engine as I shift the gears.

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  Better than the 3.0 - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Monsieur Bonjour - May 6 - 1:49 pm

  Iv tried the 3.0l and I didnt see a big difference in the power for the 10000$ you need to add to get the 3.0 compare to the 2.5. The 2.5 is more than enought with the sport package. I had some problem with the radio & amplifier and the automatic roof top after the BOOMERANG DEVICE installation be careful there is a lot of sensor on this car everywhere. Fun to drive and everybody think its worth twice the price you pay... If you want to flash in a sport car its the best one to buy but more than everything else its fun to drive. You cant not resist its race feeling. You will step on the gas after every stop sign. Enjoy

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  Z4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Bobster - May 4 - 10:00 am

  The Z4 is a true roadster yet offers comfort, convenience and luxury. Very quite for a convertible. Enough trunk space to actually "use" the car.

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  I LOVE THIS CAR! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By M L Kardatzke - April 29 - 8:52 pm

  FUN FUN FUN FUN FUN... what more can I say? Almost bought the Z3 years ago and waited until the Z4 came out with the solid back windshield. I drive it year round in snow with studded tires. Out performs my truck in the snow. CAUTION... do NOT buy this car if you like to blend it!! IT IS A CROWD stopper!! My face is sore after driving this car. Reason? The sappy smile from having so much fun!!! I might be a little old lady but I am definitely not from Pasadena. This car seems to appeal to everyone, from little kids to people in their 50s and 60s. The car should have a license that says "Its all about me" as it really grabs the attention.