2013 BMW Z4 Review
2013 BMW Z4 Review





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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Powerful engines
- fuel-efficient base model
- quick-folding hardtop
- comfortable ride
- big trunk (with the top raised)
- strong brakes
- excellent visibility for a roadster.
Cons
- Very pricey
- four-cylinder is clattery at idle
- not as invigorating and involving as its Porsche rival.
What’s new
Other than minor changes to standard equipment, the 2013 BMW Z4 is unchanged.
Edmunds says
Sleek styling, a high-class interior and plenty of performance combine to make the 2013 BMW Z4 a highly desirable roadster.
2013 Z4 Highlights
sDrive28i
- Combined MPG
- 26 MPG
- Cost to Drive
- $181/month
- Seating
- 2 seats
- Drivetrain
- rear wheel drive
- Engine Type
- Gas
- Warranty
- 4 years / 50,000 miles
Vehicle overview
Roadsters used to be simple, impossibly tiny convertibles low in power but high in agility. Frills were few, but fun was abundant. They were also reasonably priced. With a lone exception, today's roadsters hardly fill this bill. The 2013 BMW Z4 and its two primary German competitors pack in the latest luxury features and power-retractable roofs. The Z4 has overwhelming power and isn't even that small. As for price? Well, we certainly wouldn't describe it as reasonable.
However, just because the Z4 represents a radical roadster shift doesn't mean that the fun has diminished. This BMW lives up to its brand's long-standing reputation for making supremely capable driving cars. The handling is excellent, the controls are engaging and each turbocharged engine -- either a relatively frugal four-cylinder or much stronger six-cylinder -- delivers strong performance.
Beyond its high-powered persona, the Z4's size and creature comforts provide something that those roadsters of yore definitely did not -- easy commuting and road trip livability. The Z4 has genuinely generous legroom, bettering not only its ancestors but its current competitors as well. Its features list is extensive -- slightly offsetting its eye-watering price -- while its power-retractable hardtop roof provides the cabin with an extra measure of serenity and security. Even the trunk is generously sized.
In total, the 2013 BMW Z4 is easy to love. While not possessing the perfectly balanced nature of the 2013 Porsche Boxster or the peerless refinement of the 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK, the Z4 manages to strike a middle ground between the two. Yet we can't ignore the sky-high price tags attached to all three of these cars that frankly seem a little absurd. If you're looking for the modern embodiment of the classic roadster, the Mazda Miata is really your only bet.
Performance & mpg
The 2013 BMW Z4 sDrive28i features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder that produces 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard and there is a no-cost transmission option of either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic. Manual-equipped cars include an automatic stop-start function that turns off the engine when the car is stopped to improve efficiency. In Edmunds performance testing, a manual-equipped Z4 28i went from zero to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, which is actually close to the V6-powered Mercedes SLK350. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 22 mpg city/34 mpg highway and 26 mpg combined with the manual, with the automatic losing only 1 mpg on the highway.
The Z4 sDrive35i gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder that produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. It gets a standard six-speed manual (no auto stop-start), with a seven-speed automated manual transmission as a cost option (known as DCT). With the manual, the Z4 hit 60 mph in 5.2 seconds, which is quicker than the SLK and base Porsche Boxster. It ties the Boxster S. EPA mileage stands at 19/26/21 with the manual and 17/24/19 with DCT.
The Z4 sDrive35is gets a more powerful version of the 3.0-liter turbo-6 good for 335 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. At full throttle, an overboost function increases torque to 369 lb-ft. The DCT is the only available transmission. In Edmunds testing, the 35is went from zero to 60 in 5 seconds flat. Its fuel economy is 17/24/19.
Safety
Every BMW Z4 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control and side airbags. The antilock brakes also integrate several features designed to improve braking performance, such as periodically wiping the brake rotors dry when the windshield wipers are in use and snugging the brake pads against the rotors if the driver abruptly lifts off the throttle. The optional BMW Assist emergency communications includes automatic crash notification, stolen vehicle recovery and on-demand roadside assistance.
In Edmunds brake testing, the 28i came to a stop from 60 mph in an outstanding 103 feet. The other two models were essentially identical.
Driving
Some people might not like the idea of a sports car with a four-cylinder engine. Most won't like the sound of the 2013 BMW Z4 sDrive28i's four-cylinder at idle, as it produces an unbecoming rough clatter. But slot the manual transmission's slick shifter into 1st and lay into the throttle and we're pretty sure you won't have anything to complain about. This torque-rich engine pulls hard and has a sharp, warbling exhaust note reminiscent of BMW's past inline-6s. The 28i also handles a bit better than its six-cylinder siblings thanks to its lighter weight. The 35i and 35is are quicker, but truth be told, you'll be plenty happy with the 28i.
The Porsche Boxster remains the hands-down favorite when it comes to providing an engaging top-down driving experience. The Z4, especially with one of its sport packages, is certainly no slouch around corners, but its more comfortable ride, more spacious cabin and less communicative steering make it more of a grand touring car akin to the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Interior
The 2013 BMW Z4's cabin is sleek and upscale. High-quality materials abound and combine with diverse shapes to create an undeniably premium environment. Several two-tone color choices add some further pizzazz, while additional standard features for 2013 are welcome given the Z4's elevated price. There are also a few thoughtful touches inside, including secondary knee-level air vents and a small cargo shelf behind the seats.
The Z4 is also arguably the most practical two-passenger sports car on the market. Legroom is plentiful, which is something you don't hear often about small convertibles. Visibility is also unmatched thanks to large rear quarter windows that eliminate the typical blind spots in most convertibles. With the hardtop roof raised, the trunk is quite large, measuring 8 cubic feet and capable of holding two sets of golf clubs and a carry-on suitcase. You'll have to ditch those clubs when you lower the two-piece hardtop, but the suitcase can remain, which is more than you can say for some other hardtop convertibles. There's also an available trunk pass-through that can accommodate longer items.
2013 BMW Z4 models
The 2013 BMW Z4 is a two-seat convertible with a retractable hardtop roof. There are three models that correspond to engine size: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is.
The 28i comes standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic and adaptive bi-xenon headlights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power seats with four-way lumbar adjustment, driver memory functions, a tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, auto-dimming mirrors, Bluetooth phone connectivity and a sound system that includes a CD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.
Besides its bigger engine, the 35i gets 18-inch wheels, sport seats with adjustable bolsters and thigh support and sun-reflective leather upholstery. These items are optional on the 28i.
The 35is adds an even more powerful engine, unique styling cues, a lowered suspension with adaptive dampers and a sport steering wheel.
Each Z4 is eligible for the following optional packages. The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, extra storage items and retractable headlight washers. The M Sport package adds an adaptive M-tuned suspension, lightweight 18-inch wheels, an increased top speed limiter, an aerodynamic body kit, a thicker sport steering wheel and special interior trim.
Stand-alone options include different wheels, front and rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, steering wheel paddle shifters (automatic transmission only), heated seats, BMW Assist emergency communications, a six-CD changer, satellite radio, an upgraded sound system and the BMW Apps suite of smartphone-connected functions.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2013 BMW Z4.
5 star(76%)
4 star(17%)
3 star(7%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
41 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Dream, or Nightmare?
Meffy, 07/07/2010
2009 BMW Z4 sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
After my 08 Z4 was totaled by a teenager, I made the mistake of driving this car. This engine paired with the 7 speed transmission is the best drive-train I've ever driven, and that includes owning a Vette, Boxster, Jag XK, and my 08. My research showed an all-too-common complaint with the fuel pump failure and oil overheating. Knowing this, I still bought this car. I may regret it … someday but unlike most modern muscle, this car gives you mega-power below 2K revs and keeps it through 5K with little or no turbo lag. Compare with the M3 which gives you almost nothing until you hit 4500 revs. The M3 may be the better track car, but I drive on the street. Nothing else can match this Z for daily use.
5 out of 5 stars
2011 Z4 sDrive35is, A Smile Making Machine!
MarkandSusan Cartisano, 03/05/2015
2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35is 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Purchased a CPO Z4 sDrive35si with all the options and limited edition interior... 25k miles. This car is a smile making machine! First, I drive in the real world, not a test track. If you can make this care misbehave in a turn, you're going too fast for real roads! It is super tight and sticks to corners like glue! Heart pounding and big smile! The most amazing thing is the power … band never quits! Ever hit a golf ball just right and watched it rocket away only to see it get a second blast of power! That's the Z4... You punch it down and it blasts off, hits 110mph in a flash and then blasts off again! It wants and has so much more! All this in a comfort that no Boxster can provide.
4.63 out of 5 stars
My Dream Car
adonis13, 03/01/2013
2011 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl 6M)
I've always wanted a BMW Z roadster ever since I test drove a Z3 in San Diego.
At the time, I had just started working full time.
I have always been an Engineer, but at the time I had a mountain of debt.
When I finally had the means to purchase my dream car, Chris Bangle (Germany's answer to Sir Mix-a-Lot) violated the Z3's successor, the first generation Z4.
So, I had to wait 7 long … years for that abomination to leave the stage.
The E89 Z4 was worth the wait.
Strangers and acquaintences alike come up to me all the time to tell me that I have a beautiful car.
I don't need a car that costs any more money, has any more performance, or looks any better (if possible).
4 out of 5 stars
Constant compliments!
Scott LaRocca, 01/31/2016
2012 BMW Z4 sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
We traded in a baseline model 2003 Porsche Boxster for this 2012 BMW Z4.
Everything about the Z4 blows away the older model Boxster except handling. While the Z4 is still stellar on hard turns due to its Sport and Sport+ suspension modes, it weighs 500 lbs more than the Boxster and feels like it'll fishtail if you don't have excellent control of the accelerator. The Boxster felt like … it was pulling you around corners. The Z4 makes you have to pull it around corners. Subtle distinction, but noticeable.
Definitely don't regret the trade in though. It's faster than most muscle cars off the line (not a new Stingray though). 0-40 mph before you can blink, and the auto- and paddle-shifting are FAR faster and smoother than you could ever possibly do with a manual transmission. I've owned Mustang 5.0s that weren't this fast off the line, including a Shelby GT.
The looks, sound, power, and technology of the Z4 are phenomenal. Just don't get in a wreck with it, you won't win.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2013 BMW Z4, so we've included reviews for other years of the Z4 since its last redesign.
More about the 2013 BMW Z4
Used 2013 BMW Z4 Overview
The Used 2013 BMW Z4 is offered in the following submodels: Z4 Convertible. Available styles include sDrive28i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M), sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M), and sDrive35is 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM). Pre-owned BMW Z4 models are available with a 2.0 L-liter gas engine or a 3.0 L-liter gas engine, with output up to 335 hp, depending on engine type. The Used 2013 BMW Z4 comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual, 7-speed automated manual.
What's a good price on a Used 2013 BMW Z4?
Price comparisons for Used 2013 BMW Z4 trim styles:
- The Used 2013 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is priced between $16,995 and$16,995 with odometer readings between 69922 and69922 miles.
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 2013 BMW Z4S are available in my area?
Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 2013 BMW Z4 for sale near. There are currently 1 used and CPO 2013 Z4S listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $16,995 and mileage as low as 69922 miles. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 2013 BMW Z4.
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Should I lease or buy a 2013 BMW Z4?
Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.
Check out BMW lease specials
Check out BMW Z4 lease specials
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