BMW Z4 Roadster Review 2022
The BMW Z4 is a smart and sophisticated convertible sports car that provides an exciting and nippy driving experience.
The latest generation model reverts back to the Z4's original driver appeal, matching eye-catching good looks with a low centre of gravity. Rivals to the Z4 include the Porsche 718 Boxster, Audi TT Roadster, Jaguar F-Type, and the Mazda MX-5.
Our BMW Z4 Roadster review covers:
- Good-looking, sporty exterior with a wide grille and deep bonnet
- Premium interior with modern technology
- 281-litre boot, regardless of whether the roof is up or down
- Three petrol engines, all with an eight-shift automatic gearbox
- Three trim levels available, including Sport, M Sport, and M40i
The third-generation BMW Z4 matches its predecessors in terms of good looks. It has a very defined appearance with a wide front grille and creases in the bonnet. From the back, it's pretty bulky, which is one of the reasons for the generous boot space.
The Z4 is quite spacious for two adults for a two-seater sports convertible. There's enough room for those who exceed six foot, and you won't be rubbing shoulders with the person next to you. There's a good amount of storage, with handy features in the front and storage behind the seats.
The roof opens and closes in roughly 10 seconds and can do so up to 30mph, which is handy for the unpredictable British weather.
The Z4's boot holds an impressive 281 litres, which isn't affected by whether the roof is up or down. This makes it larger than both the Porsche Boxster and Audi TT Roadster. It can hold up to five carry-on suitcases or most types of equipment needed for a sporty weekend away.
The interior of the Z4 is what you'd expect from a BMW, top quality. The dashboard is angled towards the driver, ensuring that anything essential is within reach. The upholstery is impeccable, and the leather seats offer a comfortable journey for both the driver and the passenger.
The quality continues with the infotainment system, housing a 10.3-inch touchscreen. It uses BMW's iDrive system which is one of the best around. It’s easy to use, responsive and displays sharp graphics. For those who don't want to use the touchscreen, a rotary controller is available on the centre console.
Three trim levels are available for the BMW Z4 Roadster, including the Sport, M Sport, and the M40i.
The entry-level Sport includes 17-inch allow wheels, BMW's professional sat nav, Bluetooth, air conditioning and Xenon headlights.
The M Sport adds 18-inch wheels, lower suspension to make for a more exciting drive, sports seats, new front and rear bumpers, and sportier interior trimmings.
The top-of-the-range M40i has 19-inch M alloy wheels, electrically adjustable front seats with memory, improved brakes and M Sport differential.
Three petrol engines are available, all fitted with an eight-speed automatic gearbox. There are a couple of 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, plus the range-topping M40i, which has 340bhp and can achieve 0-62mph in just 4.6 seconds.
The 20i and 30i variants are more suited to motorway driving, so if cruising in style is your forte, these are the engines you should consider.
For snappier drivers who want a traditional Z4 experience, the M40i is the best engine to choose. It's certainly not slow and comes with a top speed of 155mph. The M Sport brakes allow more confidence when taking on country roads, and its suspension keeps the car level and does a good job absorbing any mid-sized bumps.
The Z4 won't let you down as it provides a decent drive, but if you're buying based on performance alone, it doesn't compare to the Porsche 718 Boxster and Audi TT Roadster.
Prices for the new BMW Z4 Roadster start from £39,255.00 OTR* or to lease from £525.71 per month.
Nationwide Vehicle Contracts has some fantastic car lease deals on the BMW Z4 Roadster, which could make car leasing cheaper than an outright purchase. This is thanks to fixed monthly rentals, a low initial investment, variable mileage, and contract terms.
*'On the road' price correct at time of publication and includes one year's road fund licence, DVLA first registration fee and number plate fee. Prices are subject to change, always check with your nearest retailer.
