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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  One great car - 2004 BMW Z4
  By WillT - October 7 - 10:00 am

  a lot more than one would expect with over-engineered everything...with a few add-ons, this baby will crank nearly 230 hp, runs around 6 in the qtr and tops 150+. Stylish, not cheap to operate (93 oct)but roads very nice.....

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  Glad I bought it - 2007 BMW Z4
  By BigShow - September 27 - 4:19 pm

  My 4 th BMW 2007 conv auto - base model - very pleased- had 69k- pd 11k at a dealer- clean and checked out- lots of fun , comfy enough, quiet enough-storage surprises you. I drive it like I stole it, smoooth and reliable- Im 5-11 200lbs/ fit fine.

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  The best bang for your buck - 2003 BMW Z4
  By clubprimo - September 11 - 10:00 am

  I had the Z3,wow what a difference a year makes.Every time Im at a traffic light,people tell me what a cool looking car this is.Performance is incredible.

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  Love It! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By Never2ManyToyz - September 5 - 2:00 am

  After eight months and 5100 miles I still love this car! Despite conflicting reviews, the styling is the reason I bought it (I watched "Hostage" at BMWfilms.com and was immediately hooked). Fully loaded (except nav.), I recently added a hardtop and winter tires/wheels. I upgraded to the 3.0i with the sport package because I liked the wheels better. Wood interior trim is classier than aluminum. This is my first BMW, but definately not my last!

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  Great roadster - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Joseph Schmidt - August 16 - 8:41 am

  It was between this or leasing a new Miata. The BMW definitely feels like a more solid car. Very pleased with my purchase.

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  Z Fore Fun - 2004 BMW Z4
  By mlife - July 24 - 2:00 am

  Fun, turns heads, clean look inside with the creature comforts youd expect from a $40K car and BMW. The ride is like a sports car, you feel the road but thats what I was looking for. The engine sounds deep and smooth and will get you up to the speed limit fast enough for most commuters. The top goes down fast (10 sec) with little wind at speed.

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  the best car ever - 2004 BMW Z4
  By TIM-ESEE - July 14 - 10:00 am

  the best car ever

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  Pure Fun - 2004 BMW Z4
  By ccole - June 12 - 2:00 am

  The Z4 is pure fun. This car is highly responsivee, handles well at all speeds, and is smooth riding. The sport package adds to the experience. The powertop drops in 10 seconds, and you can lower it while stopped at a traffic light. I have owned this car for 7 months. It has been an exceptionally pleasing purchase.

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  All I expected - 2004 BMW Z4
  By J. Schmidt - June 5 - 2:00 am

  Handling is fantastic - love the styling

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  V4 3.1liter - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Hfree21734 - May 17 - 2:00 am

  Beautiful car. Attracts much attention and approval from other motorists. Solid and substantial. Difficult to get into but once in the great seats hold you in much comfort. Wonderful smooth engine but this is not unusual with BMW. Smart interiar and clever design on the outside of the car with the wandering creases.