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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  Z 4 is Z1 - 4 me - 2004 BMW Z4
  By beckerscience - October 14 - 10:00 am

  It is just plain driving fun! Responsive,handles superior in the curves. Good mileage both city and highway.

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  Land Shark - 2003 BMW Z4
  By alk - October 14 - 2:00 am

  I purchased a 3.0 titanium silver Z4 last month with the sport package. Absolutely the most enjoyable driving vehicle I have ever owned! Smooth ride, great sound system, this "land shark" is really quick. Incredible in the turns!!! The automatic top is very easy and fast. Destined too be a classic with the new body style. Looks like a piece of art rides like a luxury sedan. Only thing I can think of that needs improvement, it could use more than one power port.

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  Fun & Fast - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Bemmer 1 - October 8 - 2:00 am

  Reliable car, great inerrior space for car size, fun to drive, outstanding value, maintanance included!

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  What a sweet ride! - 2003 BMW Z4
  By speedfrk - October 2 - 2:00 am

  The 3.0 is fast and has great handling features. The sport package is nice with the 18" wheels and the sport control which makes the car even more responsive than normal. Love the looks and sound of the car as it handles every twist and turn. This is a true sports car and not one of those plastic clones. It is a big plus that BMW is going to pick up the tab for the service over the next 4 yrs or 50k miles.

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  zoom zoom zoom - 2003 BMW Z4
  By DeNatale - October 1 - 2:00 am

  The power and handling of the vehicle is excelent. Theres ample room to be more than comfortable on a long trip.

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  Z-4 SENT FROM HEAVEN - 2003 BMW Z4
  By t.c - September 30 - 2:00 am

  AFTER DOING SOME EXTENSIVE RESEARCH ON THE AVAILABLE ROADSTERS, I NARROWED MY SEARCH THIS PAST SUMMER AND SELECTED THE 2003 Z-4. THE CAR IS NOTHING LESS THAN A REAL JOY TO DRIVE. THE 2.5 WITH MALDIVE EXTERIOR AND BEIGE TOP/INTERIOR DRAWS LOOKS FROM EVERYONE WHEN I AM ON THE ROAD. OPTIONS THAT I PUT ON MINE INCLUDED THE PREMIUM AND CONVENIENCE PACKAGES ALONG WITH AUTOMATIC TRANS. THE MOTOR HAS A DISTINCT GROWL THAT IS UNIQUE. KIND OF LIKE WHAT A HARLEY OWNER FEELS WHEN HE/SHE IS ON THEIR HARLEY. TO SAY IT THE BEST, THERE IS NOTHING NOT TO LIKE ABOUT THIS CAR. IN MY 25+ YEARS OF DRIVING, IT IS WITHOUT A DOUBT THE MOST ENJOYABLE DRIVE I HAVE EXPERIENCED.

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  A Very Fun Roadster... - 2003 BMW Z4
  By spzero0 - September 30 - 2:00 am

  SMG Transmission is very fun. Acceleration assistant allows you to launch at a redlight with perfection everytime.

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  Waited a long time to buy another sports - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Z4maniac - September 24 - 10:00 am

  I havent looked for an excuse to drive my car since I sold my 1981 TR-8. The Z4 is like my TR-8 on steroids. This car is awesome. Fast Sleek and sticks to the tarmack like it is on a train track. Most all todays cars look pretty much the same. The first time I saw the 2003 Z4, I was hooked!

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  Driving is Fun Again - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Barnet - September 23 - 2:00 am

  I tried the Z-3, and found it bland in styling, a tight fit physically, and short on some of the features I wanted in a sports car. The Z-4 responds to all of these issues: it is eye- catching, easy and comfortable on all kinds of roads and for long distance touring, and has an up-to-date set of power accessories, GPS, sound system, etc. It is a car for those who enjoy interacting with their machine.

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  AWSOME - 2004 BMW Z4
  By cladbolg - September 19 - 10:00 am

  THE BEST CAR U CAN DRIVE BEATS MERCEDES CARS IN THE SAME AND OVER LIKE $20000 PRICE RANGE EASILY AND CAN EVEN COMPETE WITH A PORSCHE 911 BEATS ALL CARS FORM ITS CLASS AROUND $20000 ABOVE ITS PRICE RANGE!!!. THIS CAR IS SUPER FUN THE PRICE.COMES WITH ALMOST EVERYTHING YOU WOULD WANT IN A CAR! FORGET THE NISSAN 350Z or the HONDA S2000 OR THE MAZDA RX* AND SURELY FORGET THE MERCEDES BECAUSE THIS BEATS ALL OF THEM BY FAR!!!.