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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  Love, love love it. - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Johnnyb - February 18 - 10:00 am

  Ive had my Z4 for 1 week and Im loving every minute that I sit behind the wheel. I puchased a Jet Black/Black 3.0 with Auto/Sport/Conv/Prem/Heated seats/Xenon and Navigation. Im very impressed so far. The ride is firm but I expected it to be so. This is not my daily driver so its not a problem for me. I considered the 350Z, TT, Boxster, SLK, S2000 and even the SC430. This was by far, the best of all worlds. Im 62" and I have plenty of leg and head room in the Z4.

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  Too much fun to be legal - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Northwest Z - February 3 - 2:00 am

  Too much fun to be street legal. Looks, performance, styling, build quality are all top quality. Very Highly Rated.

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  Heaven on wheels - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Spider says Yes! - January 29 - 10:00 am

  This car is a real gem to drive. Turns heads at every stop light. The stereo is sensational, handling superb, and the auto trans shifts flawlessly. Purchased 18 inch after market wheels, a must for overall appearance and improved handling. My 99 Z3 is an after thought compared to this sweet gem! Keep it up! Maybe the best is yet to come... I cant imagine.

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  WOW!! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Hansolo - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Whod ever thought a car can renew the excitement you get from driving. Everyday, it seems like I try to come up with an excuse to drive my Z4. It handles like a dream and accelerates like a rocket. I looked at a S2000, but the Z4 has so much more room, especially in the trunk.

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  New Cl;assic - 2004 BMW Z4
  By statman - January 11 - 2:00 am

  Great feel for the road yet, it can be used as an everday commuter. Plenty of power. Great looksbut, that is subjective. Bottom line is that its a fun car to drive.

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  A New Z4 - 2003 BMW Z4
  By sarn - December 12 - 10:00 am

  The car hugged the road like glue. Drove @80 - 90 mph from Italy to Austria. Excellent handling on the curves & surprisingly quiet - even with the top down. Comfortable even after a 4 hour drive.

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  Big Pimpin - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Homer315 - November 18 - 10:00 am

  This car is great fun and garners random compliments from strangers all the time. Its supposed to compete with the Boxster but the Z4 is way classier and better looking.

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  Constant compliments! - 2012 BMW Z4
  By Scott LaRocca - November 12 - 3:42 pm

  We traded in a baseline model 2003 Porsche Boxster for this 2012 BMW Z4. Everything about the Z4 blows away the older model Boxster except handling. While the Z4 is still stellar on hard turns due to its Sport and Sport+ suspension modes, it weighs 500 lbs more than the Boxster and feels like itll fishtail if you dont have excellent control of the accelerator. The Boxster felt like it was pulling you around corners. The Z4 makes you have to pull it around corners. Subtle distinction, but noticeable. Definitely dont regret the trade in though. Its faster than most muscle cars off the line (not a new Stingray though). 0-40 mph before you can blink, and the auto- and paddle-shifting are FAR faster and smoother than you could ever possibly do with a manual transmission. Ive owned Mustang 5.0s that werent this fast off the line, including a Shelby GT. The looks, sound, power, and technology of the Z4 are phenomenal. Just dont get in a wreck with it, you wont win.

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  Bad build quality - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Jacques - November 4 - 10:00 am

  The Z4 is a build in USA, with poor build quality. The car built in Germany is better.

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  GOZZZZZZZZZZZ - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Zsmylife - November 4 - 2:00 am

  Great car. Originally owned Z3, and this is a much stronger roadster. In my opinion a good cross between the Porsche and Mercedes. Very satisfying