2014 BMW Z4 Review
2014 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
- strong brakes
- excellent visibility for a roadster.
Cons
- Four-cylinder's clattery idle doesn't fit the persona of the car
- not as invigorating and involving as its Porsche rival.
What’s new
For 2014, the BMW Z4 receives a handful of minor changes. Among them are restyled fender-mounted signal repeaters and a few new options packages including the Hyper Orange package and the Technology package.
Edmunds says
Sleek styling, a high-class interior and plenty of performance make the 2014 BMW Z4 a desirable roadster.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.96 per gallon for premium unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$181/mo
Z4 sDrive28i
vs
$170/mo
Avg. Compact Car
Vehicle overview
A roadster used to be a small, two-seat convertible with adequate power, sporty handling and minimal comfort features. Heck, the really old ones didn't even have roll-down side windows. But what they lacked in frills, they made up for with an engaging driving experience and affordable pricing. Most modern roadsters are different animals entirely, as they're not exactly diminutive, and they boast powerful engines, a wide array of luxury features and, all too often, big price tags. The 2014 BMW Z4 stands proud among the new-era, premium-brand roadsters.
But just because you can get leather upholstery and a heated steering wheel in the Z4 doesn't mean this Bimmer has forgotten how to have fun. It's a BMW, so you'd expect it to be a capable companion on curvy two-lane roads, and it is. Plus, there's plenty of thrust with either of the available turbocharged engines, one a fuel-sipping inline four-cylinder and the other a broad-shouldered inline-6.
Furthermore, the Z4's roomy seating and ample creature comforts make it pretty hospitable for commuting and even road trips. Adding an extra measure of serenity and security is the retractable hardtop. Even the trunk is generously sized, at least when the roof is raised.
So yes, the 2014 BMW Z4 is easy to love, even if it's not a classic, minimalist roadster (if that's what you want, the Mazda Miata is the best current-day equivalent). BMW's two-seat convertible doesn't feel as sharp going around turns as a true sports car like the Porsche Boxster, nor does it have the peerless refinement of the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class. Yet the BMW Z4 finds a happy middle ground between the two, and for everyday use, it's arguably the best pick here.
Performance & mpg
The 2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 240 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Rear-wheel drive is standard, and you can get either a six-speed manual or an eight-speed automatic at no extra cost. 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, similar to what the V6-powered Mercedes SLK350 runs. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 26 mpg combined (22 city/34 highway) with the manual, with the automatic coming in at 26 combined (22 city/33 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), and a seven-speed automated manual transmission (known as DCT) is an extra-cost option. With the manual, this 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 21 combined (19 city/26 highway) with the manual and 20 combined (17 city/24 highway) 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. Fuel economy ratings are 20 combined (17 city/24 highway).
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 BMW Assist eCall system is standard and includes an emergency assistance button and automatic crash notification. This system can be upgraded to include BMW Assist Remote Services that include stolen vehicle recovery and remote door unlock.
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. Chances are, many won't like the sound of the 28i's four-cylinder at idle, as it produces an unbecoming clatter. With the manual transmission, it also comes with a fuel-saving engine stop-start feature that can be annoying (at least BMW included a button to disable it). But 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 six-cylinder engines. The 28i also handles a bit better than its six-cylinder siblings thanks to its lighter weight. The 35i and 35is models are quicker of course, but truth be told, you'll be plenty happy with the Z4 28i.
When the road gets twisty, the BMW Z4 doesn't feel as sharp as the Boxster, which remains the class favorite if an engaging driving experience is top priority. That said, the Z4, especially with one of its sport packages, is certainly no slouch around turns. However, its more comfortable ride and less communicative steering make it more of a grand touring car akin to the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Interior
The 2014 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. Thoughtful touches include 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 roadsters. With the hardtop roof raised, the trunk provides a generous 8 cubic feet and is 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.
2014 BMW Z4 models
The 2014 BMW Z4 is a two-seat convertible with a retractable hardtop roof. There are three versions that correspond to engine size: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is.
The 28i comes standard with 17-inch wheels, automatic and adaptive bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, keyless ignition/entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power seats with four-way lumbar adjustment and driver memory functions, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, auto-dimming mirrors, basic BMW Assist service, 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 side 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, an upgraded audio system and a sport steering wheel.
Each Z4 offers the following optional packages. The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel 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. The Technology package features a navigation system, 12GB of music storage, voice commands, enhanced BMW Assist, enhanced Bluetooth/USB functions and smartphone apps/integration.
Color themed packages are also available. The Canyon Brown package features like-named leather seating, the power sport seats and anthracite wood accents. The Hyper Orange package allows one to select a Valencia Orange exterior color (not mandatory, however) and features a black and orange interior scheme. It also includes faux suede on the headliner, seats and door panels as well as unique "metal weave" cabin accents.
Available for the 28i is a Sport package (18-inch wheels, power sport seats, adaptive M-tuned suspension and an increased top speed limiter). Both the 28i and 35i can be had with a Premium Sound package that includes the 35is's upgraded audio system along with satellite radio.
Stand-alone options include different wheels, front and rear parking sensors, automatic high beams, heated seats and satellite radio.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2014 BMW Z4.
5 star(73%)
4 star(19%)
3 star(8%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
26 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
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.
4.75 out of 5 stars
The Perfect Roadster
rajparmar, 06/25/2011
2011 BMW Z4 sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 6M)
I recently got the 2011 z435i with the 7 speed automatic, premium package, sport package, premium sound.
It combines luxury, style, and performance better than any other car out on the road. It has a distinguished look and gets a lot of attention on the road.
You can drive it like a true sports car with its high performance options, large horse power, and great handling.
Or you can take … it for a luxurious lazy sunday drive for hours with the top down, nice sound system and comfortable spacious seating for a 2 seat car.
It wont beat the Porshe Boxter on a track but I feel the interior comfort, comparable unique style, and price difference make up for it. It is a very sexy fun car to drive
We have a limited number of reviews for the 2014 BMW Z4, so we've included reviews for other years of the Z4 since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- $48,950
- MPG & Fuel
- 22 City / 34 Hwy / 27 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 14.5 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 2 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 6-speed manual
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 240 hp @ 5,000 rpm
- Torque: 260 lb-ft @ 1,250 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50,000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 167.0 in. / Height: 50.8 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 70.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 3,263 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 8.0 cu.ft.
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More about the 2014 BMW Z4
Used 2014 BMW Z4 Overview
The Used 2014 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 2014 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 2014 BMW Z4?
Price comparisons for Used 2014 BMW Z4 trim styles:
- The Used 2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35i is priced between $30,590 and$34,990 with odometer readings between 13677 and50388 miles.
- The Used 2014 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is priced between $23,995 and$23,995 with odometer readings between 32989 and32989 miles.
- The Used 2014 BMW Z4 sDrive35is is priced between $32,996 and$32,996 with odometer readings between 40149 and40149 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 2014 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) 2014 BMW Z4 for sale near. There are currently 4 used and CPO 2014 Z4S listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $23,995 and mileage as low as 13677 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 2014 BMW Z4.
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Should I lease or buy a 2014 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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