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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  WOW - 2003 BMW Z4
  By PLATINUMDAVE - May 23 - 2:00 am

  I HAVE DRIVEN ALOT OF FAST CARS, BUT THIS ONE SCARED ME THE FIRST TIME I DROVE IT. I DIDNT THINK IT WAS POSSIBLE TO DO THE THINGS YOU CAN DO IN THIS CAR, AND THE BEST PART OF ALL....IS THAT EVERYONE STARES AS YOU GO BYE.

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  What a great car - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Cargoer - May 7 - 2:00 am

  It handles turns great and has great speed. Comfortable inside and looks great.

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  Awesome!!! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By voyagerkim - April 28 - 2:00 am

  I was the previous owner of a 96 Miata and then the 99 Miata. Going from the Miata to the Z4 was like going from a Ford sedan to a Cadillac! The Miata got the job done and well done at that, but the Z4 is incredible. It picks up where the Miata left off. The ride is incredibly smooth even at high speeds. The storage space in great compared to the Miata. A definite graduation.

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  YOU NEED TO HAVE ONE OF THESE - 2003 BMW Z4
  By BIMMER - April 27 - 2:00 am

  The best I vehicle I ever bought

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  BMW Z4 2.5I BRIGHT RED - 2003 BMW Z4
  By tombrown - April 13 - 2:00 am

  Purchased the BMW after test driving the Porsche and Benz convertibles. The Bmw is by far the better automobile. The BMW came with all options except the pop up dvd navigation system. Love the Z4! Handles like a dream, enough room for tall drivers (I am 6ft 5in) 5 speed manual is smooth, engine performance is great! Dealer (BMW NW) were and continue to be excellent.

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  Great Overall car - 2003 BMW Z4
  By 767FO - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Just picked up a 2003 Z4 after extensive research. This is my second BMW, second roadster (owned a Boxster) and am pleased so far. Handles great, good power and a blast to drive. Havent had it long enough no notice any major problems.

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  Eats Boxters - 2003 BMW Z4
  By drdebt - April 11 - 2:00 am

  Look at a photo - youll hate it. Go see one in the "flesh". Hmmm . . . that looks different somehow. A few days later . . . I gotta have one. Test drive it (forget the 2.5 litre). Did you once have a go-cart? Then that seat of the pants feeling all comes right back. This thing stick to the pavement like velcro and runs up to 60 faster than the factory claims. Sure, you feel ever rut in the road, but is that bad? Downsides? Well the glove box is just that . . just enough room for gloves. Interior storage . . . whats that? Will your wife/girlfriend hate it? Yes. Is that bad? Not always.

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  Truely AMAZING! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Sparkiem1 - April 7 - 2:00 am

  This car is out of this world!The looks are amazing, so different and outragous when compared with the boring, old, Porsche Boxster which I tested and thought was no where near as good. The engine is so powerful and flexble.The noise of the engine is intoxicating. Mines black, black interior with 18 inch star wheels. Got every option availible.The amount of complements I get is unbelivable, I also get alot of jealousy as people look in envy of a 21 year old in such a HOT car. If your lucky enough to be able to own 1 forget about EVERTHING else! There really is no competition and ive tested them all.

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  couldnt be happier - 2003 BMW Z4
  By mikeb - March 21 - 2:00 am

  This is my first bmw and i now understand the ultimate driving machine tag. It isnt just marketing hype. This car is an amazing drive. No sway, great acceleration, both off the line and at speed. I wasnt sure how the exterior lines would sit with me over time, but having owned it about 9 months now, they dont seem as radical as they did at first impression. All in all, Im having a ball driving the Z4 and havent once regretted buying the 3.0 version.

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  Best Ever - 2004 BMW Z4
  By T A Genovese - March 8 - 2:00 am

  I had a 2000 Z3, Everything that I did not like in that car has been changed in the Z4. The Z4 is a dream to drive keep up the good work.