• 2013

• 2009 BMW Z4

• Used BMW Z4
• Repairs BMW Z4

These scores and this review are from when the car was new.

Scorecard

Overall:	2009 BMW Z4 U.S. News Best Cars 8.2
Critics' Rating:	8.5
Performance:	8.0
Interior:	8.0
Safety:	N/A
Reliability:

How we calculate scores

Research analyzed for this review

Pros & Cons

• Strong powertrain options
• Retractable hard top
• Improved materials and increased passenger room
• An iDrive media interface that's now easier to use

• Steering system lacks feedback
• Limited cargo room

Research Other Years

• 2013 BMW Z4
• 2012 BMW Z4
• 2011 BMW Z4
• 2010 BMW Z4
• 2008 BMW Z4

Reviewers report that the Z4's cabin is better than ever. Compared to last year's model, it features higher-quality materials, more passenger room and enhanced convenience features.

• "The 2009 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." -- Edmunds
• "The new Z4 is slightly larger and heavier, but it's also more luxurious and has a more user-friendly cabin than the outgoing model." -- Road and Track

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Seating

Critics report that the 2009 Z4's two-seater cabin is slightly bigger and can accommodate passengers small and tall.

• "Interior comfort has been vastly improved, and headroom is up nearly two inches." -- Car and Driver
• "Improvements in space and headroom, small as they are, turn this car into something usable for 6-foot-5 beanpoles like me. It's still a bit of a climb, and one has to lower the seat all the way to optimize headroom, but the car is now comfortable and convenient to drive, even for tall people." -- Popular Mechanics

Interior Features

The Z4 features loads of standard and optional convenience features -- including BMW's iDrive media interface, which reviewers say is improved and easier to use than prior iterations.

• "Of course, it wouldn't be a new or refreshed BMW model without iDrive. Included with the optional navigation system, the latest-and much easier to use-version of the human-machine interface is paired with an 8.8-inch display that pops out of the top of the dash, just like the system in the current Z4." -- Car and Driver
• "Like the new 3 Series convertible, the Z4's leather features light-reflective technology to keep it from becoming scorching hot in bright sunlight." -- Cars.com

Cargo

The 2009 Z4 isn't designed to carry bulky items. Still, it features some useful on-board storage compartments and a tiny, yet useful, cargo hold.

• "In the trunk, a mid-gate separating the roof compartment can be folded down for more luggage. An optional winter package adds a pass through to the cabin, allowing room for up to two full size golf bags with the top up, BMW says." -- Automobile Magazine
• "Thankfully, BMW didn't forget about practicality along the way. There's a small storage area behind the seats that works well for purses or backpacks as well as a moderately sized pass-through that effectively expands trunk space to accommodate long items like skis or golf clubs." -- Edmunds
• "The Z4 is anything but a utilitarian purchase. When the hardtop is securely stashed, luggage space is limited, even though BMW has thoughtfully provided several useful storage compartments in the passenger compartment along with a luggage pass-through option." -- Popular Mechanics
• "Stashes abound: an electronic parking brake makes room for storage space in the center console, plus there's a real glove box and a small shelf behind the seats." -- Car and Driver