BMW Z4 Open

ON THE ROAD

Performance 
Power comes from a four-cylinder 2.0-litre engine producing 150bhp, or one of four six-cylinder engines. There's a 2.5-litre unit which is offered with 177 and 218bhp outputs, a 265bhp 3.0-litre motor, or the flagship 343bhp unit from the M3 for the Z4 M model. All pull well, so the choice is between brisk, outright fast and positively brutal.  

Ride & handling 
The Z4's excellent body control and ample grip put it right up with the best-handling cars in this class. Quick, informative steering adds to the fun, while the stiff body resists shudder over poor surfaces well. The trade-off for the Z4's taut feel is a firm ride, with the optional Sports suspension being particularly unforgiving. 

Refinement 
The six-cylinder engines in the Z4 are superbly refined, with an appealing snarl under hard acceleration. There is some wind noise when you have the roof up, but it's not a problem, and wind deflectors prevent too much disturbance with it down.

OWNERSHIP

Buying & owning 
The Z4 is competitively priced when compared with rivals such as the Mercedes SLK and Porsche Boxster, and the smaller engines in the range make it more accessible. The six-cylinder versions aren't cheap to run, but the Z4 holds its value well.  

Quality & reliability 
The Z4's classy-looking cabin is well built from first-class materials and looks as though it will stand the test of time, while the engines shouldn't give any problems. 

Safety & security 

All Z4s come with aids to guard against an accident happening - electronic stability system curbs unruly behaviour through corners. Twin front and side airbags are standard, while metal hoops behind the seats protect occupants if the car should roll. Like any soft-top, the fabric roof is more vulnerable than a hard-top to thieves; all models have an alarm and immobiliser fitted to help deter them.

IN THE CABIN

Behind the wheel 
The Z4 has a low-slung driving position that provides a sporty feel. The simple dash layout is aimed at ease of use and works well, while the seats provide plenty of support and the steering wheel adjusts for both height and reach. Full electronic seat adjustment is available in the 3.0-litre model. The top drops in just 10sec at the touch of a button. The glass rear screen gives much better visibility than a plastic window.  

Space & practicality 
The Z4 seats two people only, but there's decent room for both occupants. That said, the door trim can impinge on the driver’s leg space. At the rear, there is a reasonably practical boot that is able to accommodate enough luggage for you to enjoy a weekend away. 

Equipment 
All models are well equipped, with air-conditioning, a CD player, alloy wheels and an electric roof standard across the range. However, the roof in SE-trimmed cars and above is fully electric, whereas the standard car has a manual retainer clip. Sport trim brings leather upholstery, larger alloy wheels and stiffer suspension.