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:

• 

  Just got it - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Fred - November 24 - 2:00 am

  Just picked my 3.0 up. fully loaded except nav and cd changer. So far a gas to drive. handles and rides well. nothing to complain about. More later.

• 

  So much fun! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Joel - November 19 - 8:25 pm

  Does not handle bumps or dips well at all, nor dirt or puddles, but what do you expect from a sports car? It is so much fun to drive--the top comes down automatically, the steering is excellent, the acceleration is amazing, the look is great, the sound system is phenomenal

• 

  The Ultimate Driving Machine - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Limomin - November 19 - 2:00 am

  I originally wanted to get Nissan 350Z, but Im glad i ended up with Z4. My first experience with BMW was more than pleasant. It handles very well, no wonder why people prefer the ultimate driving machine. My Z4 has Sports Package, that gives you very good handling. Do not underestimate the 2.5 liter engine, it will give you enough power. Without realizing, you are already going over 100mph

• 

  Z4 3.0 6spd. - 2003 BMW Z4
  By gregt - November 17 - 2:00 am

  The fun factor is a 10+. Very unique design all around which will get some raves as well as some critisism. I personally love it. Performance is very good. I would like to see a little more power. It handles excellent. The ride is a little bumpy but thats to be expected, especially with the run flat tires. Interior is roomy and comfortable. Im 62" and I dont even have the seat all the way back. Interior design is very simple and the aluminum dash is very stylish. I would like to see an oil presure and altmeter guage though.

• 

  Z4 Quality Mini vette - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Carlos Noguera - November 15 - 2:00 am

  After looking at z350, 230 slk, and the Z4, the BMW was the most fun balance car.Auomatic, Selecting a White with red seats (grey dash/carpets)Sports/Premium/Zenon/ Convie/and heated seats, the Z is FUN. Handles like a GO Kart. My every day car is a X5, also wonderful, but with the Z$ I feel like 20s again.

• 

  Baddest Little thing on da road!!! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By lbarbeejr - November 10 - 2:00 am

  I recently had the opportunity to drive a z4 3.0 for a week this little thing is so responsive it almost feels a part of you...it corners like its on rails and the acceleration is AWESOME...either in auto or manual this little thing will gallop like nothing else....comfort was great, the GPS was awesome and stereo very impressive.Styling is unmatched!!! Very well built automobile!!!!! Get one if you can afford the $52,000 the model I drove was.....made me feel like a kid again.

• 

  Lloyds Ramblings - 2003 BMW Z4
  By lloydtennis - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Car has great features. Good NAV system. Excellent automatic wipers. Great top - when it is down the outside of the top is up. That gives it a finished look. The top is also fully automatic. However - it does not handle as well on the freeway as my Audi TT Roadster. It is quiet inside with the top up (The top is nicely lined). It has a "Sport Button". When pressed, it really accelerates. It has reasonable interior storage. The controls are well arranged.

• 

  Ultimite Fun To Drive Again - 2003 BMW Z4
  By R. Brodst & G.Davis - October 29 - 2:00 am

  I remember when I was a teenager waiting to drive for the first time. This is how I feel again driving this car! I dont mind traffic, long red lights and I just want to keep driving and driving!!! Thank you BMW!!!!

• 

  buy it in red - 2003 BMW Z4
  By zetty - October 28 - 2:00 am

  buy it in red, get at least 18` wheels and it looks very muscular. perfect performance, better than a boxster, no comparison to sluggish slk much more refined inside than a S2000.

• 

  BMW Z4 - 2003 BMW Z4
  By SassyAFGirl - October 28 - 2:00 am

  This car is absolutely an amazing machine. I wasnt too sure about it at first, since I never liked the Z3s but the design drew me in. I previously owned a 325ci coupe, and was going to trade it in for a 330ci convertible, but I decided to take a look at the Z4 since it was so gorgeous. Once I test drove it, I knew I had to buy it, so then and there I signed the papers and I couldnt be happier today!