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.

The BMW Z4 is a roadster and coupe sports car designed by Anders Warming of BMW AG. The Z4 was first made public at the Paris Motor Show of 2002. The Z4 is bigger than its predecessor, the Z3, sporting a superior suspension for greater stability.

When it was introduced, the Z4 (E85) competed with contemporaries such as the Mercedes SLK and the Audi TT. The first generation spawned 3 models years with varying upgrades to the wheel size, upholstery, headlights, engines and additional optional interior features.

A performance model Z4M was introduced in 2006. The Z4M shares the same engine as the M3 executive car. It proved quicker than the Porsche Boxster S and Cayman S after tests. Premium packages were offered, including an assist system and other interior features.

The second generation E89 was unveiled at the North American International Auto Show of 2009 featuring a radical redesign. The E89 is bigger and heavier than the previous generation, and is more appealing and spacious inside and out.

Z4 will be on the radar this 2014 as BMW reveals another modification to its popular roadster. The new features include surface changes, a new engine, and more technology options for the BMW ConnectedDrive service.