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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  My red Z4 - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Joe Wilson - May 9 - 10:10 pm

  The car is my daily driver. I love the ease of the manual roof. Opens and closes in one quick motion, can close it at 40 mph (do this when it rains). Smooth engine and excellent 5 speed is addictive. Good torque. Unbelievable handling. Good ride. Phenomenal standard stereo. Get heated seats (my only option). Had a few problems but BMW fixed them. A hoot to drive with the stability control off. Winter traction excellent if you buy winter tires (mine are Hankook), but snow and ice traction is terrible on stock tires. Recently drove new S2000 and Solstice both very nice. I like the feel of the BMW. Nothing compares. Buy the standard transmission and engine is my advice.

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  Watch em Stare - 2003 BMW Z4
  By Yesitsme - April 1 - 2:00 am

  Got a great deal on a fully loaded 2.5 Z4. They do sell them below MSRP. The ride is fantastic as is the handling. Took it yesterday in the mountains with plenty of winding roads. Couldnt get a peep out of the tires. Drives like it is on rails. I can clearly tell the difference on winding roads with sport pkg. The Carver stereo refuses to quit. After 200 miles in the mountains yesterday I wanted to drive more. The only sore things were my ears from too much music. It got 28 MPG to boot. W/ top up the cockpit is very quiet. I get looks everywhere I go. I now like waiting at lights just to see whos staring.

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  Now I look forward to my long commute! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Zoli - December 21 - 1:20 am

  Bought 2 weeks ago what a FUN car! Im a big guy (61", 260 lbs) but still have plenty of legroom. 2 minor drawbacks - lots of squeaks from plastic parts if seats all the way back cant seem to get more than 19 MPG no matter how conservative I drive. Live in San Diego so I drive top down in December heated seats are a plus! looks great, sounds great, responsive, tight steering, the perfect toy!

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  Roadster God Z4!!! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By smiffsmack - October 2 - 8:55 am

  I bought a CPO z4 3.0 with the steptronic tranny heated seats, sports and premium package. This car is a god of the road. If you try it, I PROMISE you will buy it. It has breakneck speed, awesome sound system, nice engine sounds, looks beautiful (especially sterling grey) I get at least one compliment on this car every single day. I bought mine for 32.5K with 16K miles on it. Get an 03, since their is no real difference between 03 to 05!!!! Just drive it, trust me!!

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  not too bad - 2005 BMW Z4
  By barry - September 30 - 12:32 pm

  Not the worlds greatest car, but a lot of fun, works well, made well and good value for the money with special lease deals now on. but it is not a lux car like my 911 that went off lease. I got this because I have just retired and was interested in a more affordable car. It has free maintenance and a long warranty. Very good lease deal and it works very well. Does it make me forget my Porsche, no, but on most days it is more than I could hope for. Not bad gas mileage, over 28 on the highway at 70mph.

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  TONS OF FUN! - 2004 BMW Z4
  By JRW22 - September 26 - 10:00 am

  GREAT CAR, SOLID HANDELING AND FAST OFF THE MARK. OVER ALL BEST IN CLASS.

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  A BMW that should not be called BMW!! - 2005 BMW Z4
  By GQ - August 16 - 10:55 am

  I am leasing this car right now. I love it except for one thing .. The dealership had more than me for the past year. Why? The reliability has been very very poor to the point where I have to take it to dealership every month! Stereo going bad, top leaking, noise from door, trunk leaking. Sadly the quality I am used to from BMW is not present here. It is fun to drive if it was not for all things going wrong with it!

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  smooth - 2005 BMW Z4
  By rxajb - July 31 - 11:33 pm

  Great car,very happy with the 2.5 engine. I still look at the 350z and wonder if I should have gone with that one. Car is major fun to drive, very tight and feels very safe. I regret that i didnt get the fog lights. I wouldnt waste my money on the navigation system. Just "keep your eyes on the road and head upon the wheels"

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  I bought a Machine - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Marco - July 5 - 2:05 pm

  I was attracted to the Z4 because of the exterior design. I didnt realize that I was buying not just another pretty car but a machine. I think the car performs best when driving at 90 mph and above. Handles wonderfully and clean. Its the best purchase Ive made in a long time.

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  Best overall sportscar - 2005 BMW Z4
  By Anthony - June 5 - 8:20 am

  The power is more than adequate with excellent low end torque. The engine is the most refined in any sportscar. Transmission is excellent with well defined gates. Clutch take up and feel is excellent. Steering tightens up beautifuly at speed. Corner placement is intuitive with no corrections necessary in steering feed. Run flat tires provide safety, consistent feedback due to very low flex, rim protection in potholes and excellent convertible trunk space. Interior is excellent in design amd materials. Excellent rear visibility with top up. Solid roll bars. Exceptional sound system even with top down at high speed. Minimal wind buffeting and noise at high speed. Excellent 2 stage skid control