2008 BMW Z4
Based on analysis of 24 Z4 reviews and test drives.
BMW Z4 - What the Auto Press Says
The 2008 BMW Z4 ranks 5 out of 8 Luxury Sports Cars. This ranking is based on our analysis of 24 published reviews and test drives of the BMW Z4, and our analysis of reliability and safety data.
The Z4 offers sporty driving dynamics and plenty of safety features for a reasonable price. However, it doesn't match the smoother rides of some rivals.
The 2008 Z4 3.0si is a two-seat hatchback coupe that offers engaging driving dynamics along with BMW's excellent reputation for quality. Previously offered only as a convertible, the coupe joined the Z4 line in 2007. Reviews generally say that the coupe has greatly improved upon the roadster's handling and exterior styling. Forbes finds it ideal for anyone who wants "a quick and agile, two-seat coupe." Plus, test drivers point out that the Z4 can double as a daily driver because of its versatile rear hatchback design. However, those looking to hold more than one passenger should look elsewhere.
The 2008 BMW Z4 3.0si comes with a 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine and a manual transmission. An automatic transmission is optional. The Z4 is also available as a convertible.
- "The Z4 convertible and coupe are generally outstanding. But the Z4 coupe is more of a sports car." -- Chicago Sun-Times
- "Unlike Porsche with its Cayman and Boxster twins, BMW does not charge more for its Z4 coupe than its convertible." -- Car and Driver
Z4 Performance - 7.9 (Good)
Test-drivers are impressed with the Z4's performance and handling dynamics, but favor the coupe's rigid body structure over the roadster. "As suspected, the stiffer Coupe chassis delivers a better driving experience on the road and at the track than does the Roadster," notes AutoWeek. According to BMW, the Z4 only needs 5.6 seconds to reach 60 mph. Still, it ranks near the bottom of its class for its performance attributes. Continue with our full Z4 Performance Review to learn why auto writers like its brakes so much. continue
Z4 Exterior - 8.2 (Very Good)
Most reviewers agree that the 2008 BMW Z4 coupe looks more attractive than its convertible counterpart. According to the Chicago-Sun Times, "It looks better than the mechanically similar Z4 convertible with its reworked rear end and sloping, shapely roof, which has a center roof channel that looks as if from Zagato, an Italian exotic car stylist." Unable to compete with beauties like the Porsche Cayman and Lotus Exige, the Z4 earns a low exterior score for its class. Continue with our full Z4 Exterior Review to read why critics favor the coupe over the convertible, or go to the 2008 Z4 Photo Gallery and judge it for yourself. continue
Z4 Interior - 6.5 (Mediocre)
While critics appreciate the Z4 coupe's 12 cubic feet of cargo space, many feel that its two-passenger interior cabin is too snug. "Add the optional deeply socketed Nubuck-leather sport seats, and the Z4 Coupe can feel like wearing your clothes from junior high," comments the Los Angeles Times. "This car needs to come with a low-carb cookbook in the glove box." Compared to other luxury sports cars, the BMW Z4's interior cabin ranks near the bottom of its class. Continue with our full Z4 Interior Review to read what reviewers like and dislike about its DVD-based navigation system, or go to the 2008 Z4 Photo Gallery to see pictures of its interior cabin for yourself. continue
Z4 Safety - NA
The Z4 performs well in federal government crash tests -- earning four out of five stars in front-impacts and five stars in rollover. The Z4 Roadster also earns four stars in driver-side side-impact crash tests. The Z4 comes equipped with a wide array of active and passive safety equipment -- including run-flat tires and Active Knee Protection. Continue with our full Z4 Safety Review to read which other safety features come standard. continue
Z4 Reliability - 7.0 (Good)
The 2008 BMW Z4 reliability score shown is the Predicted Reliability rating provided by J.D. Power and Associates. This score is based on trending the past three years of historical initial quality and dependability data from J.D. Power's automotive studies, specifically the Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS) and the Initial Quality Study (IQS). BMW offers a four-year/50,000-mile basic warranty. Continue with our full Z4 Reliability Review. continue
