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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  Great Car ! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By StarmanV - January 21 - 2:00 am

  The car is fun to drive and has unique styling. There is great attention to detail and the quality is outstanding. The trunk is larger than most in this class.

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  I sold a Porsche 996 to buy a z4 - 2004 BMW Z4
  By felicia - January 21 - 2:00 am

  Ive driven most sports cars including a ferrari, a lamborgini, two porches, vettes, etc....and this car blows the doors off of all of them. Its amazing.

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  Bavarian beauty - 2006 BMW Z4
  By 2006 BMW Z4i - January 15 - 4:48 pm

  I have only owned this car for 5 months and love it. Previous car was a 1998 Porsche 911, while the Z4 cannot compare to the 911 in performance it comes very close and cost a lot less in purchase price and maint. cost. I also think it is a better looking car. I have gotten more looks and compliments then I did with the 911.

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  Cant Go Wrong With a Bimmer - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Bimmer4Life - December 23 - 7:55 pm

  Bought this car just a couple months ago with 9,900 miles on it. Always loved the 3 series but fell in love with the Z and I got a good price, too and previous owner paid for all the options [wood dash, power seats/convertible top, HID headlights]. I get looks everywhere I go, and the front styling resembles a 6-series I suppose. Acceleration is best at higher speeds, thats where it really shines. I wish it had more accessible low-end power, but you cant have everything. I average about 25 mpg, but when in traffic that number plummets. Overall Im extremely satisfied with this Bimmer.

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  the best ever - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Mom of four - December 15 - 10:00 am

  I have had sport cars in the past, never this quality nor with this performance. Getting on to the freeway is a breeze now, getting over in the right lane to get off is the same. The handling is tight and the car just hugs the road in turns. The best part is how fun it is to drive. Everybody I know wants a ride, they want to drive it....not happening! I have too much fun driving it myself. Never in my 40 plus years have I ever had something I enjoyed driving as much as this! Sigh me mother of four and its my turn!

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  BMW Z4 Driving Review - 2003 BMW Z4
  By schwartz - December 15 - 10:00 am

  Z4 BMW is by far the best sports car I have ever driven. The 3.0 has excellent power while still offering tremendous fuel economy. A recent 6 hour trip on interstate highways yielded 30.1 mpg. My Z4 is equipped with the Navigation System and On-board computer, so the mileage reading was exact. Average speed was about 56 MPH with jaunts up to 80 MPH staying with traffic (had to hold back..the Z4 wants to go!). The Z4 is solid as a rock, with no body vibration and sticks like glue to the road surfaces (rough and smooth alike). Also, I love the style and scalloped side panels. Somewhat reminiscent of the 50s and 60s early Corvettes. I love this baby!

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  Two years waiting for this car - 2006 BMW Z4
  By gary - December 10 - 11:14 am

  Two years ago I was driving a 07 PRHT Miata. Test drove a Z4 auto loved it but couldnt afford it. This spring I traded my Miata Roadster for a 03 Z4 with auto transmission. My wife and I took it on a 4600 mile spring road trip to the northwest all in 10 days. Loved every turn, downshift, and gas stop. I auto crossed it during the summer months with great pleasure. My brother in law came to town in his pick-up and we found a 05 Z4 for him to take home. Wife and great grand kids were out riding on the week-end in her Mercedes Benz and just stopped to see if the 330ci was the same size has hers. Saw the Z4, could not believe the mileage! Of course I really wanted a 6spd.

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  Excellent all the way around - 2003 BMW Z4
  By JimQ - December 7 - 12:27 pm

  Ive driven mine across the country and its superb in all respects -- fun, reliable, great gas mileage, great performance, all ways. Even though its small, it has good storage space and excellent driving compartment space. Gas mileage on the road is 34-38 mpg. Semi-auto transmission is fun, but jerks on changes often, annoying. All in all, a plus, though. Id buy another without question.

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  Awesome Car - 2006 BMW Z4
  By Garhuff - December 5 - 2:15 pm

  I bought this car because I loved the styling and two years later, I still get excited every time I drive it. I still get stopped by people asking me questions about it frequently. I picked this instead of the Porsche Cayman and Ive never regretted it.

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  Nothing beat this in the its class! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By ky1800vti - November 29 - 10:00 am

  I had a chance to test drive all of the roadsters that I can afford(some I cant): SLK(unbelievably noise, rattle, and vague handling. its not even concider as a relax crusier, its feels like a boat.), Boxter (is good but too noise and aged styling), S2000 (fun, but not a good daily driver and too noise on the freeway.), Miata(good handling, but feels too light and lack of the sense of safty.)Z4 3.0 (unbeatable performace, but also some 9K more then my 2.5i). Call me cheap, but I dont think a 3.0i is worth 9000+ more then my perfectly balace and 99% as fun--- Z4 2.5i (5sp).