What is the Z4?
The Z4 is a small luxury convertible and the smallest drop-top in BMW's lineup. It's also one of the German automaker's purest sports cars, with its compact and relatively lightweight form, pair of powerful engines, and performance-tuned handling. The third-generation Z4 has been on sale since 2019 and benefited from a minor update just last year, with slightly revised exterior styling and more standard features. Among the 2023 updates, the M Sport suspension is now standard equipment on all Z4s.
Sports cars tend to go longer between redesigns than sedans or SUVs, so it would be a shock to see BMW significantly update the Z4 only a year after a refresh. As much as we'd like to see a model from BMW's M performance division, we're not holding our breath. The Z4 M40i is quick and fun to drive, but it's only been lightly touched by the M division. Other M models like the M2, M4 and M8 are all significantly more performance-focused than the standard 2 Series, 4 Series and 8 Series from which they, respectively, spring.
Most automakers have ditched convertibles amid low demand, but the current crop of luxury sport convertibles is still strong. The Audi TT Roadster is close in price and size but lacks the BMW's sporty edge. The Porsche 718 Boxster is arguably better to drive than the Z4 but commands a significantly higher price. Same goes for models like the Jaguar F-Type convertible and Lexus LC 500. The Z4's lack of rear seat can be a deal-breaker for some, so it might be worth checking out BMW's own 4 Series convertible.