For This version of the Z4 has the performance to match its looks, yet is just a frugal as the entry-level 20i. You get loads of standard equipment, too, including dual-zone climate control, leather seats, automatic xenon headlights, Bluetooth, and a USB socket (for your MP3 player).

Against An Audi TTS Roadster is faster and better to drive, while six-cylinder versions of the Z4 sound sportier. The 20i version is a lot cheaper, too.

BMW Z4 Roadster

What Car? says

4 out of 5 stars

The 28i isn’t that much cheaper than a Porsche Boxster, on and that basis we reckon the cheaper 20i is a better bet.

What Car? readers say

3.333333


Key facts

0–60mph
5.7 secs
Top speed
155 mph
Average mpg
41.5
Tank range
502 miles
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Features

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Size

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View the whole BMW Z4 Roadster range

Cheaper

More expensive

Read in full

The full BMW Z4 review


Buyer's notes

Target Price team says:

Gone are the days when you had to choose between soft- and hard-top versions of the BMW Z4. There’s now a single model that serves as both thanks to a folding metal roof which disappears into the boot in around 20 seconds.

Instead, buyers can concentrate on which of the three petrol engines they want. We reckon the 181bhp 20i is the pick of the range, because it’s the cheapest version of the Z4 to buy and run, yet offers strong and flexible performance.

If you want more performance there’s a 242bhp 28i version, which uses the same turbocharged 2.0-litre engine as the 20i version only in a higher state of tune. It’s quite a bit more expensive, though.

There are also two six-cylinder versions – the 302bhp 35i and the 335bhp 35is – but if you can afford to buy and run one of these there are better options than a Z4, such as the Porsche Boxster.

Reader test team says:

BMW Z4 Roadster 2.5 sDrive23i M Sport 2dr

I bought the new Z4 due to it's striking & aggressive looks after enjoying my previous Z4 coupe. The interior is well built and laid out, sports…

Matthew Proome

3 out of 5 stars

BMW Z4 Roadster 2.5 sDrive23i 2dr

Well, I drove it for a few days in different conditions and all that I can say is that ride isn't that good but forgiving for sports car. The thing…

Mudoje Srbendic

2 out of 5 stars

BMW Z4 Roadster 3.0 sDrive30i 2dr

I've had my sDrive 3.0i for 3 months and I've covered almost 5000 miles and I've fallen head over heals in love with it. I test drove the sDrive 2.5i…

Christopher Drake

5 out of 5 stars
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