
BMW Z4 is a sports car fielded by BMW as a roadster and a coupe. Now on its second generation of production, the Z4 continues BMW’s legacy of producing ultra-chic and powerful roadsters, which started in 1934 with the 315/1 Roadster. Buying a Z4 is equivalent to riding in style and command, and users can rely 100% on the expertise of the German manufacturer with the segment: the Z4 scores huge points for reliability, and performance. But while the Z4 reaps tremendous praise on speed, looks and internal specs, it certainly isn’t the most practical vehicle for everyone with comfort and running costs at stake.
Pros
Performance-wise, the BMW Z4 delivers an outstanding score. The Z4 is equipped with highly powerful engines: 4-cylinder and 6-cylinder variants in 2- to 3-litre engines. This can give a burst of upwards 180bhp to 330bhp. This allows the Z4 to climb up to 62mph in just 5 seconds with the optional seven-speed, dual-clutch gearbox.
The BMW Z4 is slightly bigger than its predecessors, with significant increases in length and weight. The result of the bulkier Z4 is a more comfortable cabin, with adequate head and leg room for both passenger and driver. A generous rear windscreen and side windows also improves all-around visibility. The dash is styled logically and simply, and the introduction of the iDrive cabin control system gives the Z4 a touring ability.
Cargo capacity is very generous in the Z4, which bests its top competitions in the segment. With the roof up, the boot can carry 310 litres. However, access to the boot may be problematic because of a small opening and an obtrusive luggage cover. When it comes to the exterior, the Z4 looks sleek with a number of contours and insets. The folding hard-top is engineered with a hydraulic system so that it can be raised or dropped while moving.
Cons
Although the Z4’s amazing speed makes it an excellent competitor against vehicles using turbo or supercharged engines in the same segment, this power also makes Z4 a fuel inefficient car, an impractical choice for everyday driving.
Driving the BMW Z4 is always best on open roads. The ride can become bumpy and crashy in rough roads because of a stiff suspension system. Despite the adaptive dampers that come with the Drive Dynamic Control system, body control still seems a little loose. At higher settings, the vehicle feels more firm and tight, but it doesn’t improve comfort levels, especially in long distance driving. Steering feels responsive up to a certain point, but cornering may be messy.
However terrific the power output is, the BMW Z4 engine choices are simply not for practical use. It’s also costly, but deals and incentives can be sought from dealers. However, if you are willing to invest in a roadster, the Z4 can give optimum satisfaction for sports car enthusiasts. Although the model’s top competitors still have more to offer in terms of fuel-efficiency and looks, no other sports car is as fast as the Z4.
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