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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  You gotta drive it to believe it - 2003 BMW Z4
  By DropTopZ4 - December 21 - 7:15 pm

  Long story short, I was so enamored with the styling and performance numbers that I ordered my Z4 3.0i via phone without a test drive. Its an awesome car that draws attention everywhere I go. To really feel the power, put it in Sport Mode and punch the throttle. If DSC gets in the way, switch it off. The stereo kicks too. Even the exhaust note sounds as if the engine is bigger than it really is. The automatic top is a crowd pleaser. Handling is solid and stable, and the ride is firm due to the sport suspension and run-flat tires. Test drive one or do what I did and just go buy one!

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  Hott - 2003 BMW Z4
  By jl2402 - December 17 - 2:00 am

  Best car to drive, but you pay to play!

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  The Firmament Smiled - 2004 BMW Z4
  By boats langdon - December 9 - 4:11 am

  head turner and heart melter upon sight one becomes a Moses parting freeway obstacles magically as heaven itself appears to join ones motoring revelry commanding everyone around to give way, make room, here comes the fair haired, favored roadster that takes the breath of saints and angels all.

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  Simply, a blast. Migrated from 535i - 2007 BMW Z4
  By Jay Ramsey - December 6 - 1:32 am

  2007 Z-4, Florida home. Avoid the bigger engine version since it comes only with the sport suspension which is a bit stiff. Test drive on less than perfect roads. Handling suspension terrific given mine was not the sport suspension. Paddle shifters. Decent mileage. Requires 91 octane for max performance. I gas up every 1/2 tank full, rotating between 93 premium and 87 regular. Get 24-25 mpg mixed city, country. Exterior finish exceptional. Abandoned run-flat tires. New set upon CPO purchase trash after 17,500. Switched the Michelin Pilot Sport A-S 3, std. replacement size 225/45/17. Less road noise, better handling. Also, so far 15,000 miles later, no road wobbling characteristic of many run-flats. Wobble symptom: (1) car jumping upon hitting routine concrete highway center seams and (2) on well worn country roads, tires tend to cause car to wobble sideways as tires run in routine tire track road surface depressions. Finally (at last, right?), car maintenance cost after warranty rather expensive, parts and labor. Bottom line, too bad BMW abandoned the Z line effective with 2018 model year.

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  Z4 4 Fun - 2004 BMW Z4
  By fozi - December 3 - 8:26 am

  I think the z4 is a great little car for the weekend. Fun, fast and gets great looks from others -- but does not break your bank account doing it.

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  Personal Evaluation of BMW Z4 - 2005 BMW Z4
  By ken hilbert - November 27 - 3:33 pm

  Fine automobile. Absolutely no problems thus far.Very smooth drive train. Performs extremely well.

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  Great at first, then.... - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Sander SF - November 24 - 6:21 am

  I bought the Z4 as what seemed like a natural upgrade from my Z3. I paid a premium to own this car, based on its stellar styling and improvements, such as the fully auto top and glass rear window. However after owning it for the first 6 months, it began to annoy me to no end. Its horribly uncomfortable. From the unsupportive seats, the exaggerated door interior door handles that chafe my left leg every time I shift, to the un-adjustable seat belt that chokes me every time I drive. Plus the 1/4 inch clearance from the dash to my right knee, and Im only 61! Add an ultra-harsh ride, and I feel like Im in a torture chamber each time I get in. I wish I had kept the z3.

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  LOVEMYZZZ4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By lovemyzzzz4 - November 14 - 9:03 pm

  Have had the car 6 mobnths and love it more every time i drive it. Heads turn and I continually get tons of compliments. Currently, I avaerage 24 MPG, not bad for a sports car! The dealership has been very accomodating for appointments and any repairs. I took the car on a 600 mile trip and was able to pack the trunk with 3 duffle bags, and a lot of other things. I was amazed how much the trunk held. I highly reccommend this car! Its wonderful!

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  MY IDEA OF A SPORTS CAR - 2005 BMW Z4
  By SEMINOLE SAM NOLES 1 - November 14 - 9:26 am

  THIS IS THE BEST SPORTS CAR THAT I HAVE EVER HAD WHICH INCLUDES A BMW Z3,A GRIFFITH, A JAGUAR XK150, A PONTIAC TRANS-AM AND A PORSCHE 911

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  z for life - 2004 BMW Z4
  By z4merlot - November 13 - 2:00 am

  The Z4 is a beautifully designed 2 seater with plenty of power for the average driver. The top is very easy to use unlike my last conv. ( 95 Corvette). A place to keep the coffee cup is all its missing.