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:

• 

  The Car Turns Heads - 2004 BMW Z4
  By BMER Z4 - July 18 - 2:00 am

  Have 2,500 miles on my Z4 and it is a continual joy to drive. It constantly turns heads. Handles well & 2.5l engine has plenty of power & runs like a fine watch. Would buy it again in a heartbeat.

• 

  corners like a snake - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Vaughn Creach - July 17 - 2:00 am

  The car is well built,corners like a snake and has impressive high end acceleration.However,my back seems to hurt a little on longer trips.I think its the gas pedal position being to close to the driver.Any other owners with this observation?

• 

  Great Car! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Burch - July 16 - 2:00 am

  I recently bought a 2004 Z4, having previously owned a 2001 Z3. The Z4 is a great improvement and is truly a luxury roadster. The automatic top is a breeze to put up and down with its one button operation. The climate control is like what I am used to on a luxury auto. And the trunk has almost twice the room that I had with my Z3. The interior also seems to be roomier. Its also nice to have a remote door/trunk opener which I did not have on my Z3. While some of the industry analysts have been critical of the exterior design, most people I know use the words "awesome" or "cool" to describe the Z4 whereas the word "cute" seemed to go along with the

• 

  Superb auto - 2004 BMW Z4
  By loonnoon - July 14 - 2:00 am

  Without the most smooth running vehicle I have ever owned. The service and attention to my personal needs was excellent and continues to be.

• 

  woodys - 2004 BMW Z4
  By woody343434 - July 14 - 2:00 am

  I think this vehicle is a fresh new look into B M Ws future,other such vehicles with such ammenties are far more expensive and little on design ie (mazda,miata).I have found it is a really comfortable car plus really peppy on take offs and passing gears.I would suggest this car to any one looking for a fine quality convertable that doesnt want to spend 40k.This vehicle offers plenty of ammenties plus lots of fresh new look.

• 

  Automatic Fun - 2004 BMW Z4
  By basuraspam - July 13 - 2:00 am

  With the sportsmatic automatic shifter the car is fun to drive without the hassles of a stick in stop/go traffic. Car has great handling on turns.

• 

  Love at First Sight - 2003 BMW Z4
  By IAGasMan - July 9 - 2:00 am

  This car makes every trip, even a run to the grocery store, a good time. Handling and acceleration are superb! The ride is what youd expect in a BMW and a roadster - very firm, with an excellent sense of exactly where you are on the pavement. The interior is comfortable, although with the top up, a bit of effort is required to fold myself in. The exterior styling, which has been a subject of controversy, was love at first sight at our house!

• 

  simply awsome - 2004 BMW Z4
  By waht - July 8 - 2:00 am

  had the car for 4 months now and I still love driving it like I had it the first day. It is quick off the line, and glues to the pavement around corners. Ive looked into the Porche BoxterS and Mercedes SLK320 and I think this is the best buy of the bunch. The 18 inch wheel and stiff suspension may make the ride a bit rough, but it is a small compromise given the overall quality.

• 

  Awesome! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Peggy - July 8 - 2:00 am

  I owned a Z3 for 3 yrs then trade in for the Z4 in Oct 2002, and Im totally in love with this Car! even though I would love it to have more performance, (maybe if it were a 3.0 would help, but I got the first Z4 out of the dealer and only 2.5 was available at that time), A lot more confortable than Z3, love the reliability, the design, the futuristic features like rain sensor, automatic lights, etc, that for sure make my life a lot easier, It is definitaly a better version,Handling is sharper and ITS A LOT OF FUN !!!! (not counting all the looks you get while in it! :)

• 

  Review of my 3.0 BMW Z4 2004 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By James Morris - July 7 - 2:00 am

  This is by far the best vehicle I have ever owned. Its just what I always wanted. I liked the Z3 but the Z4 is much better in every catagory. I will now own a BMW the rest of my life. They are a dream and drive like a dream. The service is awesome and I have had nothing but good luck. Sincerely, Jim