2021 BMW Z4





Total MSRP | $50,695 |
---|---|
Edmunds suggests you pay | $47,897 |
2021 BMW Z4 Review

- Classic roadster experience with modern conveniences
- Larger-than-expected cargo space
- Quiet interior with the top up or down
- Roomy cabin
- Not quite as exciting as it could be
- Brakes grab at low speeds, making it hard to stop smoothly
- Thick pillars compromise outward visibility
- Poor in-cabin storage
- Android Auto and satellite radio are standard
- Other minor changes to feature availability
- Part of the third Z4 generation introduced for 2019
Americans are pretty much in love with trucks and SUVs, but that hasn't stopped a few automakers from keeping small sporty roadsters alive. One of them is BMW and its Z4. In fact, BMW redesigned this convertible just a couple of years ago. As such, the 2021 BMW Z4 is brimming with the newest and greatest tech features such as an automated parking system, a high-definition touchscreen and — new for 2021 — Android Auto smartphone integration compatibility. We also like the Z4's spunky base engine, spacious interior and exceptional noise isolation.
The Z4's main rivals include the tech-laden Audi TT, the sleek Jaguar F-Type and the sport-focused Porsche 718 Boxster. You might also consider the recently redesigned Chevrolet Corvette, which is better than ever. This is some tough competition, to be sure, but the Z4 holds its own with a solid list of accomplishments. To read more about what we think of the Z4, check out our Expert Rating below.
Performance
On smooth roads the Z4 performs well, but less than perfect pavement can quickly upset it. The Z4 feels unsettled when you're driving on a bumpy road, and the stiffer Sport mode seems to make the stability worse.
Comfort
The most impressive part might be the Z4's relatively quiet cabin with the top up, especially for a convertible. You won't have to shout just to have a conversation on the highway, and the lack of a roof didn't seem to cause any unnecessary vibrations or rattles.
2021 BMW Z4 pricing
in Ashburn, VA

Interior
The driving position is fine, though the tall hood and doors do make you feel hunkered down in the car. Because the infotainment controls take up a large portion of the center console, the cupholders have been hidden away in the center console, a bit inconvenient since there's no good place to rest your arm.
Technology
The Z4's adaptive cruise control and blind-spot monitoring work well, though the lane-centering system can be too aggressive with its steering corrections.
Storage
Unfortunately, cabin storage for small items can't quite match the trunk space. The door pockets are small, and the cargo net behind the seats doesn't hold items in place very well. And you'll have to decide whether you'll have an armrest or hold your drink in hand because the cupholders are tucked away in the center console.
Fuel Economy
Value
The warranty is above average for the class and should help alleviate some of the concerns about maintenance costs when it comes to German luxury cars.
Wildcard
We enjoyed the Z4 the most when driving at a relaxed cruising speed. The sizable cargo area and quiet cabin help it feel right at home on the highway or a winding coastal drive.
Which Z4 does Edmunds recommend?
BMW Z4 models
The 2021 BMW Z4 is a rear-wheel-drive two-seat roadster that is available in two trim levels: sDrive30i and sDrive M40i. The sDrive30i is powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine (255 horsepower, 295 lb-ft of torque). The sDrive M40i steps up to a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder (382 hp, 369 lb-ft). Both are paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Feature highlights include:
sDrive30i
The four-cylinder sDrive30i starts you off with:
- 18-inch alloy wheels with summer performance tires
- LED headlights
- Automatic wipers
- Auto-dimming mirrors
- Digital instrument panel
- Push-button start
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Imitation leather upholstery
Standard tech features include:
- Navigation system
- 10.25-inch center touchscreen
- 10-speaker audio system
- Satellite radio
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration (with wireless connectivity)
- Forward collision mitigation (warns you of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios)
sDrive M40i
Besides the more powerful engine, the sDrive M40i adds:
- Dynamic Handling package (detailed below)
- Keyless entry
- Heated steering wheel
- Lumbar adjustment for front seats
As with most BMWs, the Z4 is available with a staggering number of packages and stand-alone options. These include:
- Driving Assistance package
- Lane departure warning (alerts you if the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane)
- Blind-spot monitoring (alerts you if a vehicle in the next lane over is in your blind spot)
- Parking sensors (alert you to obstacles that may not be visible in front of or behind the vehicle when parking)
- Automated parking system (steers into a parking spot with little or no driver intervention)
- Convenience package
- Driving Assistance package
- Keyless entry
- Lumbar adjustment for front seats
- Premium package
- Convenience package
- Heated front seats
- Wireless charging pad
- Wi-Fi hotspot
- Head-up display (displays important information in your sight line onto the windshield)
- Executive package
- Premium package
- Adaptive headlights (swivel as you turn the steering wheel for better illumination in curves)
- Ambient lighting
- Leather upholstery
- 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system
- M Sport package
- 18- or 19-inch wheels
- Aerodynamic body kit
- Sport suspension (adaptive suspension optional)
- Sport steering wheel
- Dynamic Handling package
- M Sport package
- Upgraded brakes
- Sport differential
- Adaptive suspension
- 19-inch wheels
- Remote engine start
- Front and rear parking sensors
- Ambient lighting
- Heated steering wheel
- Heated front seats
- Wireless charging pad
- Adaptive cruise control (maintains a driver-set distance between the BMW and the car in front)




Consumer reviews
There are no consumer reviews for the 2021 BMW Z4.
2021 BMW Z4 video
2019 BMW Z4 First Drive
NOTE: This video is about the 2019 BMW Z4, but since the 2021 BMW Z4 is part of the same generation, our earlier analysis still applies.
Features & Specs
- Total MSRP
- $50,695
- MPG & Fuel
- 25 City / 32 Hwy / 28 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 13.7 gal. capacity
- Seating
- 2 seats
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 8-speed shiftable automatic
- Engine
- Inline 4 cylinder
- Horsepower: 255 hp @ 5000 rpm
- Torque: 294 lb-ft @ 1500 rpm
- Basic Warranty
- 4 yr./ 50000 mi.
- Dimensions
- Length: 170.7 in. / Height: 51.4 in.
- Overall Width with Mirrors: 79.7 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 73.4 in.
- Curb Weight: 3287 lbs.
- Cargo Capacity, All Seats In Place: 9.9 cu.ft.

Safety
Our experts’ favorite Z4 safety features:
- Active Guard
- Warns if a collision is imminent and applies the brakes if the driver doesn't react in time.
- Active Blind-Spot Detection
- Alerts the driver if a vehicle is lurking in a blind spot.
- Lane Departure Warning
- Warns if the vehicle begins to drift out of its marked lanes.
BMW Z4 vs. the competition

2021 BMW Z4

2021 Porsche 718 Boxster
BMW Z4 vs. Porsche 718 Boxster
Even though its turbocharged four-cylinder lacks some character, the Porsche 718 Boxster otherwise sets the gold standard for the rest of the class. Its nimble handling and controlled ride are beyond reproach, as are its stellar interior materials and build quality. But it can get quite expensive when you add a bunch of options, of which there are many.
BMW Z4 vs. Audi TT
Available as a four-seat coupe or two-seat convertible, the Audi TT is slightly more practical than the Z4. The TT comes standard with all-wheel drive, making it the rare drop-top that can shrug off inclement weather. The four-cylinder-powered TT isn't as powerful as the Z4 sDrive30i, but it's still fun to drive.
BMW Z4 vs. Jaguar F-Type
If you want a sports car that causes onlookers to gawk, the Jaguar F-Type will oblige. Its striking shape has been enchanting since its 2014 debut, and the refreshed 2021 model updates the sleek design language with a futuristic touch. As is the case with the Z4, however, the driving enjoyment you get from it is underwhelming.
FAQ
Is the BMW Z4 a good car?
What's new in the 2021 BMW Z4?
According to Edmunds’ car experts, here’s what’s new for the 2021 BMW Z4:
- Android Auto and satellite radio are standard
- Other minor changes to feature availability
- Part of the third Z4 generation introduced for 2019
Is the BMW Z4 reliable?
Is the 2021 BMW Z4 a good car?
How much should I pay for a 2021 BMW Z4?
The least-expensive 2021 BMW Z4 is the 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A). Including destination charge, it arrives with a Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of about $49,700.
Other versions include:
- sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $49,700
- sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) which starts at $63,700
What are the different models of BMW Z4?
2021 BMW Z4 Overview
The 2021 BMW Z4 is offered in the following submodels: Z4 Convertible. Available styles include sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), and sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A). The 2021 BMW Z4 comes with rear wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 8-speed shiftable automatic. The 2021 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 do people think of the 2021 BMW Z4?
Consumer ratings and reviews are also available for the 2021 BMW Z4 and all its trim types. Edmunds consumer reviews allow users to sift through aggregated consumer reviews to understand what other drivers are saying about any vehicle in our database. Detailed rating breakdowns (including performance, comfort, value, interior, exterior design, build quality, and reliability) are available as well to provide shoppers with a comprehensive understanding of why customers like the 2021 Z4.
Pros
- Classic roadster experience with modern conveniences
- Larger-than-expected cargo space
- Quiet interior with the top up or down
- Roomy cabin
Cons
- Not quite as exciting as it could be
- Brakes grab at low speeds, making it hard to stop smoothly
- Thick pillars compromise outward visibility
- Poor in-cabin storage
Edmunds Expert Reviews
Edmunds experts have compiled a robust series of ratings and reviews for the 2021 BMW Z4 and all model years in our database. Our rich content includes expert reviews and recommendations for the 2021 Z4 featuring deep dives into trim levels and features, performance, mpg, safety, interior, and driving. Edmunds also offers expert ratings, road test and performance data, long-term road tests, first-drive reviews, video reviews and more.
Our Review Process
This review was written by a member of Edmunds' editorial team of expert car reviewers. Our team drives every car you can buy. We put the vehicles through rigorous testing, evaluating how they drive and comparing them in detail to their competitors.
We're also regular people like you, so we pay attention to all the different ways people use their cars every day. We want to know if there's enough room for our families and our weekend gear and whether or not our favorite drink fits in the cupholder. Our editors want to help you make the best decision on a car that fits your life.
What's a good price for a New 2021 BMW Z4?
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $50,695. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $2,798 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $2,798 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $47,897.
The average savings for the 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A) is 5.5% below the MSRP.
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A)
The 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) can be purchased for less than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (aka MSRP) of $64,695. The average price paid for a new 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is trending $3,260 below the manufacturer’s MSRP.
Edmunds members save an average of $3,260 by getting upfront special offers. The estimated special offer price in your area is $61,435.
The average savings for the 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A) is 5% below the MSRP.
Which 2021 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) 2021 BMW Z4 for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a car from our massive database to find cheap 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 2021 BMW Z4.
Can't find a new 2021 BMW Z4s you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
Find a new BMW for sale.
Why trust Edmunds?
Edmunds has deep data on over 6 million new, used, and certified pre-owned vehicles, including rich, trim-level features and specs information like: MSRP, average price paid, warranty information (basic, drivetrain, and maintenance), features (upholstery, bluetooth, navigation, heated seating, cooled seating, cruise control, parking assistance, keyless ignition, satellite radio, folding rears seats ,run flat tires, wheel type, tire size, wheel tire, sunroof, etc.), vehicle specifications (engine cylinder count, drivetrain, engine power, engine torque, engine displacement, transmission), fuel economy (city, highway, combined, fuel capacity, range), vehicle dimensions (length, width, seating capacity, cargo space), car safety, true cost to own. Edmunds also provides tools to allow shopper to compare vehicles to similar models of their choosing by warranty, interior features, exterior features, specifications, fuel economy, vehicle dimensions, consumer rating, edmunds rating, and color.
What is the MPG of a 2021 BMW Z4?
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 2dr Convertible (2.0L 4cyl Turbo 8A), 8-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (recommended)
28 MPG compined MPG,
25 city MPG/32 highway MPG
2021 BMW Z4 sDrive M40i 2dr Convertible (3.0L 6cyl Turbo 8A), 8-speed shiftable automatic, premium unleaded (recommended)
25 MPG compined MPG,
22 city MPG/30 highway MPG
EPA Est. MPG | 28 |
Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
Drive Train | rear wheel drive |
Displacement | 2.0 L |
Passenger Volume | N/A |
Wheelbase | 97.2 in. |
Length | 170.7 in. |
Width | N/A |
Height | 51.4 in. |
Curb Weight | 3287 lbs. |
Should I lease or buy a 2021 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
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