2015 BMW Z4 Review
2015 BMW Z4 Review





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Used Z4 for sale
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2015 BMW Z4 appraisal values can range from $19,475 - $26,091.
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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 sporty as its Porsche rival
- questionable value of 35is model.
What’s new
For 2015, the BMW Z4 sDrive35i is no longer available with a six-speed manual transmission. Instead, it comes only with the seven-speed automated manual.
Edmunds says
The 2015 BMW Z4 offers sleek styling, a high-class interior and more than enough performance to make it desirable.
Vehicle overview
If you want to travel in style and comfort with an open blue sky above you, the 2015 BMW Z4 should be right up your alley. This luxury roadster has the performance, refinement and good looks we expect for this class of car, and it's certainly one of our favorites.
Starting things off for the Z4 is the entry-level sDrive28i. Its base four-cylinder engine will likely satisfy most drivers and returns good fuel economy for the class. For that classic BMW feel, though, you can't beat the sDrive35i with its smooth inline-6 engine and impressive acceleration. The Z4 is tuned to be more of a grand touring car than an outright sports car, but the result is sporty enough handling on back roads and a comfortable ride on the highway. Moreover, its power-folding hardtop is an engineering marvel, and it adds a pleasing dose of security compared to soft-top rivals.
Another Z4 advantage is that it's pretty practical given its relatively compact dimensions. The seats are roomy enough for 6-footers, and the trunk can easily accommodate a weekend getaway's worth of luggage (though the roof takes a bite out of that space when retracted). If you're dreaming of an idyllic road trip with plenty of sun and winding tarmac ahead of you, you can't do much better than this BMW.
Even though we like the Z4 quite a bit, its price tag can shoot up quickly with a few options added. Plus, there are other desirable alternatives in this rarefied class. The Porsche Boxster is a true athlete and offers a more engaging feel when driving through turns, while the Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class boasts top-shelf refinement and available V8 power. If you haven't driven a Chevrolet Corvette lately, its blend of performance and sophistication may surprise you. And if you just want a minimalist roadster experience, we always recommend the joyful Mazda MX-5 Miata. But all things considered, the 2015 BMW Z4 remains one of the most well-rounded luxury roadsters available and we definitely recommend a test-drive.
Performance & mpg
The 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i features a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder making 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 a 1 mpg drop in highway mileage for the automatic.
The Z4 sDrive35i gets a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder that produces 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. It's paired exclusively with a seven-speed automated manual transmission (known as DCT). BMW estimates that the Z4 will hit 60 mph in 5.0 seconds. EPA estimated mileage is 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway).
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. The DCT is the only available transmission. In Edmunds testing, the 35is went from zero to 60 in 5 seconds flat. Fuel economy ratings mirror those of the 35i at 20 mpg combined (17 city/24 highway).
Safety
Every BMW Z4 comes standard with antilock brakes, stability and traction control and side airbags. The antilock brakes integrate several features designed to improve braking performance -- one periodically wipes the brake rotors dry when the windshield wipers are in use, while another snugs the brake pads against the rotors if the driver abruptly lifts off the throttle. The BMW Assist eCall system is also standard and includes an emergency assistance button and automatic crash notification. This system can be upgraded to include BMW Assist Remote Services with features like 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
For some, a four-cylinder sports car at this price may seem less than ideal. The 28i's four-cylinder does clatter a bit at idle, and with the manual transmission, it comes with a fuel-saving engine stop-start feature that can cause intrusive shudders (at least BMW included a button to disable it). But if you hit the gas, we're pretty sure you won't have anything to complain about. This torque-rich engine pulls hard and has a pleasing exhaust note. The 28i also handles a bit better than its six-cylinder siblings thanks to its lighter weight.
Having said that, the 35i and 35is models are quicker, particularly at higher speeds -- and for some, the eerie smoothness of a BMW inline-6 is always worth the extra money. We'd approach the pricey 35is with caution, however, as its performance advantages over the 35i are minimal at best.
When the road gets twisty, the BMW Z4 doesn't feel as sharp as the Boxster, which remains the class favorite if you demand an engaging driving experience. Nonetheless, the Z4 is certainly no slouch around turns, especially with its adaptive sport suspension. At the same time, its relatively supple ride makes it an enticing substitute for the Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Interior
Inside the 2015 BMW Z4, you're greeted by a sleek dashboard, crisp analog gauges and consistently high-quality materials. It's an undeniably upscale environment. For a more custom feel, there are several two-tone color schemes that jazz things up a bit. Thoughtful touches include secondary knee-level air vents and a small cargo shelf behind the seats.
Despite its modest size, the Z4 is one of the more practical roadsters on the market. Legroom is typically at a premium in cars of this type, but the Z4 easily accommodates folks with longer inseams. Visibility is excellent even with the top up, thanks to large rear quarter windows that eliminate the blind spots typical in most roadsters.
With the roof raised, the trunk provides a generous 8 cubic feet of space. You'll lose some space when you lower the two-piece hardtop, but a fair amount remains, 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.
2015 BMW Z4 models
The 2015 BMW Z4 is a two-seat convertible with a retractable-hardtop roof. There are three versions that correspond to engine choice: sDrive28i, sDrive35i and sDrive35is.
The 28i comes standard with the four-cylinder engine, 17-inch wheels, automatic and adaptive bi-xenon headlights, LED running lights, automatic wipers, heated mirrors, keyless ignition and entry, cruise control, dual-zone automatic climate control, eight-way power seats with driver memory functions, a leather-wrapped tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, leatherette premium vinyl upholstery, auto-dimming mirrors, basic BMW Assist service, Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity and a sound system that includes a CD player, HD radio, an auxiliary audio jack and an iPod/USB audio interface.
Besides its more powerful six-cylinder engine, the 35i gets 18-inch wheels, sport seats (with adjustable side bolsters and thigh support) and sun-reflective leather upholstery. If you aren't interested in the larger engine, these items are also available on the 28i.
The 35is adds an even more powerful engine, unique styling cues, a lowered suspension with adaptive dampers, an upgraded audio system, upgraded interior trim and a sport steering wheel.
There are several options packages available for all three trim levels. The Cold Weather package adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel and retractable headlight washers. The M Sport package is standard on the 35is save for its 19-inch wheels and increased speed limiter, but on the other trims it adds the 35is's adaptive suspension, aerodynamic body kit, sport steering wheel and special interior trim (note that the 28i is limited here to 18-inch wheels). The Technology package features a navigation system, 12GB of music storage, voice controls, enhanced BMW Assist and smartphone apps integration. Color-themed packages are also available that feature leather seating, the power sport seats, a simulated suede headliner and various interior accents.
Available for the 28i is a Sport package (18-inch wheels, sport seats, adaptive suspension and 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, a heated steering wheel, heated seats and satellite radio.

BMW Introduces the 2023 M4 CSL, the Ultimate Expression of Street-Legal Performance
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2015 BMW Z4.
Most helpful consumer reviews
5 out of 5 stars
Love the Z4
Bill,06/25/2017
sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
Just purchased my 2015 Z4 s35i Alpine White with the Coral Red leather interior. The car was a CPO with only 2,348 miles. I owned a 2004 Z4 in 2008 and really liked the ride. I sold the Z4 and purchased a 2006 Corvette convertible. It was a nice car with a lot of power but was lacking in the ride. I was looking for either a Z4 or Mercedes SLK. I found this Z4 that was exec driven and was … totally loaded with all the bells and whistles. Got rid of the terrible run-flats and went with Michelin Pilot Sport 4s, now it rides like a dream. All of the controls are right at your fingertips and the seats are adjustable to wrap around you. The power of the twin turbo's 300 hp and 300 lbs of torque is instant, whether passing or from a dead standstill. The technology package is next to none, from Real-Time Traffic Information, Enhanced USB and Bluetooth plus Smartphone Integration, BMW Online and BMW Apps, Remote Services, a navigation system, and Voice-command. The 8 speaker Hi-Fi system sounds great and worth the upgrade. Another great package is the M Sport which has an excellent suspension, and a seven-speed Sport Automatic with a double clutch operation which makes the car feel like a genuine roadster. The wind defector makes for a quiet ride with the top down buffering the wind making it easy to carry on a conversation or listen to music. All-in-all the Bimmer is the ultimate driving machine.
4 out of 5 stars
Stylish roadster
Paul V,01/06/2016
sDrive28i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 6M)
Sporty and comfortable roadster with great build quality and materials. Seats are amazing and power is very good on the 4 cylinder model.
The hardtop takes kind of a long time to put up and down and draws a lot of attention so not as quick as a softtop but it's much more secure and gives the car a nice dual personality with the top up vs down. Rearward visibility is among the best … i've seen with minimal blind spots and great mirrors that auto dim at night.
The 6 speed manual is slick and easy to easy to use and makes it feel like a proper sports car. Rev matching is easy and the engine is torquey and willing at almost any RPM
The standard run-flat tires are too hard and non-forgiving and make for a terrible ride especially with the M package suspension and larger wheels. I recommend swapping them out for non run-flats and sticking to 17 or 18 inch wheels.
The car looks and is small from the outside but feels larger and very substantial from the inside. It's probably at least 300lbs overweight though. Even though it has great power and decent fuel economy, this car would really benefit from losing a few pounds. As is it's more of a comfortable, fast highway cruiser then a tight-curve hugging car that you can fling around. This would be a seriously great car if it lost a few pounds but it's still an enjoyable and classy vehicle.
5 out of 5 stars
Beautiful Ride
Ron Spiess,03/30/2019
sDrive35i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 7AM)
I had never owned a BMW so I thought I'd try one. Since this is the most beautiful body style BMW ever made (in my opinion) I bought my 2015 Z4 35i. It had Bridgestone run flat tires which were seriously loud and didn't handle well. Replaced the run flat tires with some Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires which transformed the ride, noise (terrible on the Bridgestone run flats) and … handling. Then added a Dinan Stage 2 tune which gave me over 370 HP and 400 torque. Much more impressive performance vs. stock. I'm currently adding aero components to improve the high speed handling. I LOVE this car as an every day driver so much that I sold my Audi R8 V10 plus because I preferred driving the BMW due to the better ride quality at normal speeds. The R8 only comes alive over 80 mph so it's not a good daily driver. I truly think the Z4 has the most artful lines of any car I've ever owned (and that's a bunch). My only complaint is a lack of interior room to recline the drivers seat to a comfortable position. This one is going to be here for a long time if it continues to perform as it has up till now. After 6000 mi. I continue to love the Z4. No mechanical problems at all and I'm still stunned by how lovely it is. A serious bargain given how good it looks and how well it performs. Still performing flawlessly with 46K mi. on the clock. WW Better than expected. Made me a BMW convert as I just bought a 2020 X7 M sport and LOVE it.
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More about the 2015 BMW Z4
Used 2015 BMW Z4 Overview
The Used 2015 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 7AM), 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 2015 BMW Z4 comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 6-speed manual, 7-speed automated manual. The Used 2015 BMW Z4 comes with a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. basic warranty, a 4 yr./ unlimited mi. roadside warranty, and a 4 yr./ 50000 mi. powertrain warranty.
What's a good price on a Used 2015 BMW Z4?
Price comparisons for Used 2015 BMW Z4 trim styles:
- The Used 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is priced between $27,990 and$28,990 with odometer readings between 71690 and75269 miles.
- The Used 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive35i is priced between $41,998 and$41,998 with odometer readings between 36163 and36163 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 2015 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) 2015 BMW Z4 for sale near. There are currently 3 used and CPO 2015 Z4S listed for sale in your area, with list prices as low as $27,990 and mileage as low as 36163 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 2015 BMW Z4.
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Should I lease or buy a 2015 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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