The 2013 Z4 is offered in three different models: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is. A 240-horsepower, 2.0L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine powers the 28i, while the 35i gets a 300-hp, 3.0L turbocharged 6-cylinder engine. With either of these models, a 6-speed manual gearbox is standard, while an 8-speed automatic transmission is optional.
Top-performance 35is models step up to a 335-hp version of the turbo-charged six, and the choice between a manual transmission or performance-oriented 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) with steering-wheel paddle-shifters. The DCT system can pull off very quick shift, more quickly matching revs and providing stronger launches (with an electronic aid called Launch Control) when needed. The DCT option is also available on 35i models.
Across all of these models, the Z4's engines have direct injection, which help them achieve strong output figures while returning better gas mileage than most other sports cars; the base sDrive28i has EPA ratings of up to 22 mpg city, 34 highway. In 35is models, there's an overboost function that temporarily increases the engine's torque peak to 369 pound-feet and top speed is electronically limited to 155 mph. The 35is is, however, somewhat thirstier, at an EPA 17/24 mpg.
The BMW Z4 steers crisply and handles with the balance and poise of a small roadster, yet it has a little more heft and refinement that make it comfortable for longer trips. The relatively long wheelbase and low center of gravity contribute to that, and the aluminum double-pivot and strut front suspension and constant-geometry rear arrangement contribute to a predictable feel when you go fast into a corner. All Z4 models come with electric power steering and high-performance brakes, while a Sport Package brings upgraded wheels and tires and the Adaptive M Suspension with Electronic Damping Control--including several settings that allow the driver to choose the degree of firmness. That ties in with the Z4's Driving Dynamics Control, allowing the driver to choose between normal, sport, and sport plus modes--affecting everything from the response of the gas pedal to the degree of stability-control intervention.
The Z4's interior is much more spacious than some other small roadsters, with full, supportive sport seats standard on every trim. And the tight-fitting power-folding hardtop yields most of the same benefits of a coupe, sealing out wind and road noise. The Z4 also uses a special kind of seat material that's sun-reflective, keeping darker surfaces especially far cooler than they would otherwise be.
Cargo space is also respectable for this kind of car. When the power retractable hardtop is closed the Z4 can hold up to four crates of bottles or two 46-inch golf bags, while with the top down the space is reduced somewhat. There are also hinged door compartments, stowage space behind the seats, and a large glove box, and a load-through system even allows space for skis. Throughout the cabin, available brushed aluminum and dark wood trim can give the Z4 a true-luxury feel inside.
Z4 models with the optional navigation system include iDrive, an interface that uses a directional and tactile controller--rather than touch screens--to access infotainment, navigation, and communications features. The navigation system also includes a 12-gigabyte music storage capacity.
The Z4 comes equipped more as a luxury coupe, and the long standard-equipment list even on the base 28i includes adaptive brake lights, xenon adaptive headlamps, heated mirrors, a heated rear window, rain-sensing wipers, dynamic cruise control, a universal garage-door opener and an auxiliary power outlet, in addition to a sound system that includes HD Radio and a USB port with iPod connectivity.
Good Ride And Handling
Luxurious Cabin
Tight Folding Hardtop
Strong Standard Equipment
For 2013, the Z4 Roadster gets more standard equipment, as well as a price drop of $1,300 for the base Z4 sDrive28i. The Comfort Access system, a universal garage-door opener, auto-dimming mirrors, ambient lighting, a compass, sport seats with additional lumbar seat support and a wind deflector are now all on the standard-features list, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control and power front seats with driver memory. Wheels have been upgraded to 18-inch alloys, too.
Z4 sDrive 35i models additionally get BMW Assist and the Hi-Fi Premium sound system as new standard features for 2013, while option prices have changed in some cases. And across the model lineup, the retractable hardtop can now be operated at up to 25 mph.
The BMW Z4 remains a roadster and sports car, but with its last redesign a few years ago it became more mature and upmarket--instead appealing as a more mature grand-touring sports car. Its folding hardtop arrangement is also one of the best of any roadsters or small convertibles and its excellent ride quality means that you won't be compromising comfort.
Although serious enthusiasts will want the sDrive35is, practically speaking there isn't all that wide of a difference in performance at legal U.S. speeds; the sDrive28i can make it to 60 mph in just 5.5 seconds, while the more powerful 35is takes 4.7 seconds.
