BMW has built a reputation for performance and engineering excellence, but one of its most engaging models rarely gets the attention it deserves. The BMW Z4 delivers a blend of open-top driving excitement, balanced handling, and daily usability that feels both timeless and thrilling. Yet despite its strong character, it often gets overshadowed by more mainstream SUVs and high-profile sports cars in the brand’s lineup.
- Base Trim Engine
-
2L I4 ICE
- Base Trim Transmission
-
8-speed automatic
- Base Trim Drivetrain
-
Rear-Wheel Drive
- Base Trim Horsepower
-
255 HP @5000 RPM
- Base Trim Torque
-
295 lb.-ft. @ 1500 RPM
- Base Trim Fuel Economy (city/highway/combined)
-
25/33/28 MPG
- Base Trim Battery Type
-
Lead acid battery
- Make
-
BMW
- Model
-
Z4 Roadster
What makes this roadster special is how complete the experience feels. With its long hood, crisp steering, and smooth powertrain, it captures the essence of what a true driver’s car should be — all while offering a comfortable cabin and modern tech that make it easy to live with every day. Unlike heavier, turbo-dependent sports cars, it rewards engagement and connection, making every twisty road feel like a memorable drive.
With the current generation nearing the end of its production run, now may be the last chance for many buyers to own this pure, affordable BMW roadster before it disappears. If you’ve ever wondered what makes a small, lightweight sports car truly rewarding, this overlooked model deserves a hard look before it’s gone.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including the EPA.
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The BMW Z4 is a criminally underrated sports car
Sleek styling, drop-top vibes, and quick acceleration
If you’re looking for a fine balance between engaging driving dynamics and plush interior environs, then BMW should definitely be at the top of your list. Over the years, they have been able to walk the line between comfort and performance better than most. However, there is one car in the stable that doesn’t quite get the love and reverence as the rest, despite being pretty damn excellent. The Z4 is a fantastic roadster with a great personality and it deserves a second look.
2026 BMW Z4 trims and pricing
|
Model |
Starting MSRP |
|---|---|
|
sDrive30i |
$56,100 |
|
M40i |
$68,400 |
The 2026 model year is actually your final chance to get this generation of the Z4. To mark the occasion, BMW has said that they will be launching a special Final Edition model. They haven’t said exactly how many will be produced, and they haven’t mentioned whether a fourth generation model is in the works. All Final Editions wear Frozen Black Metallic and feature a black and red interior theme.
The sDrive30i is pretty well priced, starting much lower than rivals like the Porsche Cayman despite delivering more than enough performance for most buyers. We’d also tack on the Dynamic Handling package, which adds larger brakes and a sport differential, both developed by BMW’s M Sport division. If you’re really after better performance, the M40i is exceptionally quick, but we think most will find the sDrive30i plenty satisfying.
Roadsters don’t sell like they used to
Unfortunately, buyers just don’t seem to be as into roadsters as they once were. While there are some outliers, most have been chopped due to dropping sales and there are few left. For the 2025 sales year, the Z4 was one of the worst performing BMWs on the market, with only 2,113 units sold. The only model that sold fewer units was the BMW XM.
The fact that roadsters like the Z4 are disappearing is something that makes us a little gloomy. Yes, usually they aren’t as quick or as dynamic as pure sports cars, but they are a ton of fun. The joy of putting the top down and just enjoying your car on a nice day is something that more people should revel in.
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BMW’s Z4 is based on the same underpinnings as the celebrated GR Supra
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When the current iteration of the GR Supra first hit the market, there were a ton of jokes that it was really a BMW because of all the parts clearly borrowed from the German automaker. We think fewer people than you’d imagine actually know that the current Z4 is the BMW that was co-developed alongside the Supra. While there are criticisms here and there, we think this partnership produced two of the most enjoyable sports cars of this era, even though it is the Supra that gets all the attention.
2026 BMW Z4 performance specs
|
Engine |
2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four |
3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six |
|---|---|---|
|
Transmission |
8-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic or 6-speed manual |
|
Horsepower |
255 HP |
382 HP |
|
Torque |
295 LB-FT |
369 LB-FT |
|
Driveline |
RWD |
RWD |
|
0-60 MPH |
5.1 seconds |
3.5 seconds |
|
Top speed |
152 MPH |
155 MPH |
Unlike the GR Supra, BMW still offers the Z4 with the more affordable turbocharged four-cylinder engine in the sDrive30i. This model comes exclusively with an eight-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual is on offer, but you’ll have to opt for the M40i and shell out quite a bit more money. The manual M40i gets up to 60 miles per hour in as little as 3.9 seconds. Every 2026 Z4 comes standard with rear-wheel drive.
Unlike some of its rivals, the Z4 definitely feels like it is better tuned for cruising. This is why we suggest the less powerful turbocharged four-cylinder model. While the M40i is exceptionally quick off the line, it doesn’t feel as precise as some rivals or as raucous as others. That being said, there is still a ton of fun to be had with this roadster through twisty sections of road. Handling is great and steering feedback is up there. We just think that expectations should be tempered and the Z4 should be appreciated for what it is, rather than compared to the hyperactive and aggressive GR Supra.
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The fit and finish inside the Z4 makes its cabin a comfortable place to be
Quality materials, comfortable seats, and a plethora of tech features
As we already touched on, it is the balance of speed and luxury that BMW achieves that makes them such a desirable brand. The Z4 definitely doesn’t fall short on the latter. While the GR Supra definitely shares a lot of bits and bobs with the BMW, you’ll find the roadster offers an even more inviting cabin with finer touches that put it in a league above.
Interior comfort features
|
Headroom |
38.9 inches |
|---|---|
|
Legroom |
42.2 inches |
|
Cargo capacity |
9.9 cubic feet |
For a convertible roadster, the Z4 actually feels pretty spacious. Even with the cloth roof up, tall drivers will find that they have more than enough headroom and legroom. Generally, you don’t expect a roadster like this to have all that much space in the trunk. While you’re not going to fit loads back there, it is bigger than the trunks offered on some of its rivals.
Even though the roof is cloth, it is extremely well insulated and keeps most of the road noise out of the cabin. With the top down, the standard wind blocker does a good job of minimizing buffeting. Materials used throughout the cabin are top class, feeling more plush than just about any other sports car at this price point. Automatic climate control and power-operated heated seats are standard features, with ambient interior lighting and a heated steering wheel being optional.
Infotainment and technology
BMW handles technology and screens pretty well in the Z4, better than in most of their cars in fact. A 10.3-inch infotainment screen rises up out of the dashboard, presented neatly and cleanly. Unlike in some other modern BMWs, it feels like an accent rather than the focal point. The system is sharp and easy to use. The system responds to touch inputs and can also be controlled via a rotary dial on the center console.
As well as a large infotainment screen, the Z4 comes standard with a fully digital gauge cluster. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are both standard features here as well. Some optional extras include adaptive cruise control, a heads-up display, and a premium Harman/Kardon sound system.
