Vehicle Overview
| Segment | Luxury roadster / convertible sports car |
| Body Style | 2-door soft-top convertible |
| Model Year | 2018 (G29 generation; refreshed 2023) |
| Trim Levels (U.S./UK) | sDrive20i, sDrive30i, M40i |
The BMW Z4 is a modern interpretation of the classic open-top sports car — combining elegant styling, powerful engines, and refined driving dynamics. Co-developed with Toyota (which produced the Supra), the Z4 is BMW’s dedicated two-seater roadster designed for driving pleasure with top-down sophistication.
The 2023 update brought minor design tweaks, new colors, and expanded standard equipment. Competing with the Porsche 718 Boxster and Audi TT Roadster, the Z4 stands out for blending genuine sports-car handling with everyday comfort and luxury refinement.
Key Specifications
| Variant | Engine | Power / Torque | 0–62 mph | Drivetrain | Top Speed |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| sDrive20i | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 197 hp / 320 Nm | 6.6 s | RWD | 149 mph |
| sDrive30i | 2.0L Turbo I4 | 258 hp / 400 Nm | 5.4 s | RWD | 155 mph |
| M40i | 3.0L Turbo I6 | 340 hp / 500 Nm | 4.5 s | RWD | 155 mph |
| Transmission | 8-speed Steptronic Sport automatic (6-speed manual optional on M40i, U.S. 2023+) |
| Chassis | CLAR platform (shared with 3 Series / Supra) |
| Dimensions (L×W×H) | 170.7 × 73.4 × 51.3 in |
| Wheelbase | 97.2 in |
| Curb Weight | 1,495–1,580 kg |
| Fuel Economy | 33–40 mpg (UK) / 27–31 mpg (U.S.) |
| Boot Space | 281 L (9.9 cu ft) |
Exterior Design
The Z4’s design exudes roadster heritage and modern aggression. Its long bonnet, short overhangs, and wide rear stance give it a perfect 50:50 sports-car balance.
The vertical BMW kidney grille, sleek LED headlights, and contoured side panels emphasize its athletic proportions. The soft-top roof (replacing the previous hardtop) is lighter, quicker to operate (in 10 seconds at up to 31 mph), and complements its classic convertible character.
Optional M Sport packages add larger 19-inch alloys, gloss-black trims, and enhanced aerodynamics.
Interior, Comfort & Materials
Inside, the BMW Z4 blends luxury and sportiness in equal measure. The cabin is snug but beautifully finished with high-quality leather, aluminum accents, and BMW’s latest digital tech.
The driver-oriented cockpit and low seating position enhance engagement, while the adjustable steering wheel and power seats ensure comfort for longer drives. Heated seats, wind deflectors, and excellent insulation make top-down cruising enjoyable even in cooler weather.
Despite being a pure two-seater, cabin storage and ergonomics are impressively practical.
Features & Infotainment
10.25-inch iDrive infotainment display
12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
Wireless Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
BMW Intelligent Personal Assistant (voice control)
Harman Kardon surround sound system (optional)
Head-Up Display (available on M40i)
Wireless phone charging & dual USB-C ports
Keyless entry, heated seats, automatic climate control
The iDrive 7 system remains among the best in its class — intuitive, fast, and easy to use while driving.
Safety & Ratings
| Euro NCAP Rating | ★★★★★ (based on platform) |
Safety & Assistance Features
Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Lane Departure Warning & Blind-Spot Detection
Forward Collision Warning with Auto Braking
Parking Assistant with Rear Camera
Front & Rear Parking Sensors
Traffic Sign Recognition
Stability Control & Roll-Over Protection
Driving Performance & Handling
The Z4 delivers the balanced, rear-drive excitement expected from a BMW. The 2.0L turbo engines are smooth and punchy, while the M40i’s straight-six transforms it into a mini-grand-tourer with explosive acceleration.
Its adaptive M suspension, variable steering, and near-perfect weight distribution create an agile and responsive feel — precise in corners yet comfortable in daily use.
In manual M40i guise (2023+), driver engagement is even more immersive, appealing to enthusiasts. Refinement remains excellent, making the Z4 equally at home on highways and backroads.
Fuel Efficiency
sDrive20i: 40.0 mpg (UK) / 31 mpg (U.S.)
sDrive30i: 37.2 mpg (UK) / 29 mpg (U.S.)
| M40i | 33.2 mpg (UK) / 27 mpg (U.S.) |
Efficient yet powerful, the Z4’s turbo engines strike an ideal balance between performance and running costs.
Practicality & Everyday Usability
281 L boot (same roof up/down)
Ample cabin storage for a two-seater
Power soft-top operates in 10 seconds
Easy entry and exit despite low stance
Smooth automatic gearbox for daily driving
For a roadster, it’s surprisingly livable — a weekend toy that’s comfortable enough to daily-drive.
Warranty & Maintenance
| Warranty | 3 years / unlimited mileage (UK) or 4 years / 50,000 miles (U.S.) |
| BMW Service Inclusive | Optional 5-year maintenance coverage |
| Roadside Assistance | Standard with warranty period |
Price & Value for Money
MSRP (2024 U.S./UK)
Z4 sDrive30i — $54,600 / £46,700
Z4 M40i — $67,300 / £56,000
The Z4 offers an appealing blend of open-air luxury and sports performance at a lower entry price than the Porsche 718 Boxster, with more comfort and tech included as standard.
Comparison with Rivals
| Model | Power (hp) | 0–62 mph | Drivetrain | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BMW Z4 M40i | 340 | 4.5 s | RWD | $67,300 |
| Porsche 718 Boxster S | 350 | 4.4 s | RWD | $76,700 |
| Audi TT Roadster 45 TFSI | 245 | 5.8 s | AWD | $56,000 |
| Jaguar F-Type P300 | 300 | 5.7 s | RWD | $73,400 |
The Z4 delivers near-Porsche performance with superior comfort and value, making it a compelling all-rounder in the luxury roadster segment.
Pros & Cons
Pros
Powerful, smooth engines (especially M40i inline-six)
Superb balance and handling
Luxurious, high-tech interior
Comfortable enough for daily driving
Quick-folding soft-top with good insulation
Cons
No manual gearbox on lower trims
Limited storage space
Some purists miss a true hardtop
Overall Rating
4.7 / 5 Stars – A refined, engaging roadster that perfectly balances open-top fun, performance, and luxury.
Final Verdict
The BMW Z4 remains one of the most complete roadsters in its class — blending precise German engineering with the joy of top-down motoring.
Whether you choose the efficient 30i or the thrilling M40i, the Z4 delivers superb performance, comfort, and technology in a package that’s easy to live with every day. It’s not just a summer car — it’s a true driver’s companion all year round.
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Specifications, prices and equipment were current at publication and vary by model year, trim and market. Verify final details with a franchised dealer before ordering. Read how we review cars and our editorial policy.