BMW Z4
Used Car Review

Overview

Thinking about a two-seater roadster that delivers pure driving pleasure? The BMW Z4 might be exactly what you’re looking for. This premium convertible sports car combines German engineering excellence with open-top thrills, offering a sophisticated alternative to more mainstream convertibles. It’s the car for driving enthusiasts who want the prestige of a BMW badge wrapped in a sleek, head-turning package.

From the moment you see it, the Z4 commands attention. Its long bonnet, sculpted flanks and aggressive front grille give it a presence that rivals like the Mercedes SLC or Audi TT Roadster simply can’t match. The fabric soft top folds away in just 20 seconds, transforming your driving experience instantly. But the real magic happens when you fire up the engine. The cabin feels purposeful and driver-focused, with high-quality materials and intuitive controls that remind you this is a proper sports car.

Driving the Z4 is an engaging experience that balances performance with everyday usability. The engines deliver smooth power, whether you choose the entry-level four-cylinder or the potent six-cylinder variants. It handles with precision and poise, giving you confidence on winding country roads while remaining civilised enough for daily commutes. While it commands a premium price over more practical cars, you’re investing in a machine that turns every journey into an event. It proves that sports cars can be both thrilling and refined.

What's the BMW Z4 Like to Drive?

The BMW Z4 is engineered to deliver genuine sports car thrills with everyday refinement. The entry-level sDrive20i features a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 194 horsepower, providing sprightly acceleration and reaching 60mph in around 6.6 seconds. For serious performance enthusiasts, the M40i variant packs a 3.0-litre straight-six turbo engine delivering 335 horsepower, catapulting this convertible from 0-60mph in just 4.4 seconds. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly and responsively.

Where the Z4 truly excels is in its dynamic capabilities. The steering is sharp and communicative, providing excellent feedback through corners. The suspension setup strikes an impressive balance between ride comfort and handling precision, keeping the car composed even when the road gets challenging. The low centre of gravity and near-perfect weight distribution make it feel planted and secure at speed. With the roof down, you experience an intoxicating soundtrack from the engine, especially in the six-cylinder models, creating an emotional connection that few modern sports cars can match.

How Comfortable Is the BMW Z4?

Step inside and you’re greeted by a cabin that perfectly balances sportiness with luxury. The dashboard features BMW’s signature driver-focused layout, topped by a crisp 10.25-inch infotainment display running the latest iDrive system. The materials feel premium throughout, with soft-touch surfaces, quality leather upholstery, and precise switchgear that operates with typical BMW precision. The sports seats provide excellent support during spirited driving while remaining comfortable for longer journeys.

The interior feels surprisingly spacious for a two-seater sports car, with adequate headroom even for taller drivers. Standard equipment includes BMW’s Professional multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, dual-zone climate control, and a premium sound system. Higher-specification models add features like heated and ventilated seats, wireless phone charging, and upgraded audio systems. Wind noise is well-controlled with the roof up, and even with the top down, conversation remains possible at motorway speeds thanks to clever aerodynamic design.

The BMW Z4 succeeds in delivering a compelling mix of performance, refinement, and open-top motoring pleasure. It offers genuine sports car dynamics wrapped in a package that remains civilised enough for daily use. The engine range caters to different needs, from the efficient four-cylinder to the thrilling six-cylinder M40i. The interior quality and technology integration are impressive, creating a premium environment that justifies the price premium.

Nicholas Zapolski Car Expert

Is the BMW Z4 Expensive to Run?

As a premium sports car, the BMW Z4 comes with running costs that reflect its positioning, though they’re reasonable for the segment. The turbocharged engines deliver respectable fuel economy, with the four-cylinder sDrive20i achieving around 40mpg in mixed driving, while the more powerful M40i returns approximately 35mpg. Insurance costs will be higher than mainstream cars due to the performance credentials and higher repair costs, typically falling into groups 35-45 depending on the specific model.

The initial purchase price represents the biggest investment, with new models starting around £45,000 and rising to over £60,000 for top-specification M40i variants. However, strong residual values help offset this premium, and car finance options make ownership more accessible through monthly payments. BMW’s reputation for reliability has improved significantly in recent years, though servicing costs remain higher than mainstream brands. Factor in premium tyres and brake components that wear faster under enthusiastic driving, and budget accordingly for maintenance to keep your Z4 performing at its best.

BMW Z4 Practicality & Boot Space

For a two-seater sports car, the BMW Z4 offers reasonable practicality that makes it viable for more than just weekend drives. The 281-litre boot provides enough space for a couple of soft bags or a weekly shopping trip, though capacity reduces slightly when the soft-top is stowed. Interior storage includes a decent-sized glovebox, door bins, and a useful storage compartment between the seats for smaller items. The wide door openings make getting in and out easier than some sports cars.

The Z4 works well as a daily driver for those who don’t need rear seats or massive cargo capacity. Its compact dimensions make it manageable in city traffic and parking, while the comfortable ride quality means longer journeys won’t leave you feeling beaten up. However, if you regularly need to carry more than one passenger or significant luggage, you’ll need to look at more practical alternatives within the broader range of used BMW cars. For couples or as a second car, the Z4 strikes an appealing balance between sports car thrills and everyday usability.

The BMW Z4 stands out in the competitive roadster market by successfully combining sports car excitement with premium refinement and everyday practicality. It packages BMW’s renowned engineering expertise, advanced technology, and distinctive styling into a convertible that works as both a weekend toy and daily driver. While it may not be the most hardcore sports car available, it excels in areas that matter for real-world ownership comfort, quality, and versatility.

You choose the Z4 because you want a sports car that doesn’t force you to compromise too heavily on comfort or usability. Its impressive engine range, high-quality interior, and composed road manners make every journey enjoyable, whether you’re commuting to work or exploring scenic routes. If you’re seeking a roadster that offers genuine BMW sportiness with a touch of luxury and practicality, the Z4 should be high on your consideration list. For those considering more budget-friendly options, there are excellent cars under £10,000 that offer great value.