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BMW Z4 - What the Auto Press Says

The 2010 BMW Z4 ranks 9 out of 9 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 2010 BMW Z4 is bigger and badder than ever before. Plus, it now features a standard retractable hard top that lowers in just 20 seconds.

Having undergone a complete redesign in '09, the Z4 carries into the 2010 model year unchanged -- which is just fine by reviewers who admire its new look and roomier accommodations. "The outgoing BMW Z4, like the Z3 before it, was widely considered to be merely an expensive 'sporty' car -- a Miata for well-off college coeds," writes Edmunds. "But a full redesign for the 2009 BMW Z4 moves the car into the rarefied realm of true luxury/performance roadsters. The new Z4 is significantly more refined, there's a little more room inside and it now boasts a power-folding hardtop." While drawbacks include limited cargo room and numb steering, most auto writers assert that the redesigned Z4 is an overwhelming success.

If you're in the market for luxury sports roadster, be sure to test drive the class-leading Porsche Boxster. It costs roughly the same as the Z4, but is a much more capable sports performer and offers loads of more cargo room -- which enhances its practicality. Just note that the while the Z4's standard hardtop is retractable, the Boxster's is optional and must be manually removed.  

The 2010 Z4 is available in two trims, the sDrive30i and turbocharged sDrive35i.

• "Z4 is a reasonably practical daily driver convertible, and a capable two-seat sports car for enthusiasts. Sweet 6-cylinder engines, a classy interior, and a rewarding driving experience are among the compelling traits the Z4 boasts. These cars are pricey, so careful navigation of the options list will deliver the best value." -- Consumer Guide
• "The outgoing BMW Z4, like the Z3 before it, was widely considered to be merely an expensive 'sporty' car -- a Miata for well-off college coeds. But a full redesign for the 2009 BMW Z4 moves the car into the rarefied realm of true luxury/performance roadsters. The new Z4 is significantly more refined, there's a little more room inside and it now boasts a power-folding hardtop." -- Edmunds

Z4 Performance - 8.2 (Very Good)

Test drivers report that the Z4 is fast and handles exceptionally well. "The new Z4 sDrive35i may not have the purity of the old M roadster, but it essentially equals its straight-line performance, and its handling is even better," writes Automobile Magazine. Still, some critics complain that its steering lacks proper feedback. Read More

Z4 Exterior - 9.1 (Excellent)

The new Z4 forgoes traditional coupe and convertible body styles in favor of a single offering that features a retractable hard top. A reviewer for Road and Track writes: "To my eye, it looks less consciously sculpted and more natural, while still accentuating the classic front-engine/rear-drive roadster look, with the driver sitting back near the rear axle. It looks muscular, alert and ready to leap. Which it is." Read More

Z4 Interior - 8.0 (Very Good)

The Z4's cabin was redesigned in '09 to provide higher-quality materials, more passenger room and enhanced convenience features. Reviewers, on balance, call it a success. According to Edmunds, the "BMW's Z4's cabin is considerably more upscale than its rather Spartan predecessor's. High-quality materials abound, and diverse shapes and exquisite surfaces combine to create a premium environment." BMW's iDrive system has also been upgraded to be more intuitive. Read More

Z4 Safety - NA

Though the Z4 hasn't yet been crash tested, it features loads of assuring safety technology -- including a Dual-airbag Supplementary Restraint System. Read More

Z4 Reliability - NA

The 2010 Z4 carries a four-year/50,000-mile warranty that includes all scheduled maintenance at no cost for the same period. Read More