2021 BMW Z4 Review

Name: 2021 BMW Z4
Brand: BMW

Price Range: $37,805 - $48,998

BMW Z4 sDrive M40i Convertible Exterior Shown

Average

7.5

out of 10

edmunds TESTED

This 2021 Z4 is spacious and quiet, especially for a convertible. The top itself doesn't take up much room in the trunk either. Unfortunately, the Z4 isn't as fun as we hoped it'd be. The four-cylinder engine loses steam at the top end, and the chassis feels loose on all but the most pristine of roads.

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Average price: $39,341

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Appraise My 2021 BMW 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

What's new

Android Auto and satellite radio are standard
Other minor changes to feature availability
Part of the third Z4 generation introduced for 2019

Overview

Written by automotive expert Cameron Rogers

5/20/2021

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.

Continue reading Edmunds Expert Rating below

For sale near Ashburn, VA

13 listings

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2021 BMW Z4
sDrive M40i Convertible
$48,998
fair price
$642 below market
- 18,178 miles
- 6cyl automatic
- 257 mi away
- Delivery available*
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Winston Salem, NC
Wanna drive? CarMax puts you in the driver's seat-and that includes transparency and pricing without document or processing fees. Certain cars may hav...
Features and Specs:
25 Combined MPG (22 City/30 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WBAHF9C0XMWX02148
Stock:
70084985
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
2021 BMW Z4
sDrive30i Convertible
$29,900
fair price
$69 above market
- 71,120 miles
- 4cyl automatic
- 379 mi away
- Back-up camera
- Bluetooth
- Navigation
- Leather Seats
- Keyless Entry/Start
Close
Located in Middlesboro, KY
This stunning 2021 BMW Z4 sDrive30i convertible delivers the perfect blend of performance and open-air driving enjoyment. Finished in striking San Fra...
Features and Specs:
28 Combined MPG (25 City/32 Highway)
Listing Information:
VIN:
WBAHF3C04MWW91547
Stock:
P1284
Certified Pre-Owned:
No
Listed since:
07-14-2026

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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.

Edmunds Expert Rating

edmunds TESTED

by the Edmunds Experts

Average

7.5

out of 10

We drove the 2021 BMW Z4 on our test track and on real roads. Our Edmunds team conducts rigorous independent vehicle testing, driving 500,000 miles a year.

Performance

7.5/10

How does the Z4 drive? Driving the Z4 is a mixed-bag experience. The Z4 sDrive30i we tested accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 5.3 seconds. The engine has good midrange punch too, which is nice for making a pass on a highway. But it can feel sluggish off the line unless you're using the Z4's launch control, and it loses steam toward the top of the rev band. The brakes provide impressive stopping power, but at low speeds, the Z4 is often difficult to stop smoothly in everyday traffic. As in many modern BMWs, the steering is mostly devoid of feeling, but it's quick and direct and stable on the highway.

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

7.5/10

How comfortable is the Z4? Even with the optional adaptive M Sport suspension, ride quality and comfort depend highly on road conditions. The Z4 cruises well on the highway, even over less than perfect pavement. That said, the seats are mounted so close to the rear axle that any bounces you do feel are fairly pronounced. The seats are shaped well, but we'd prefer more lateral support. The climate control works quickly and evenly, though there's no convenient way to sync the dual-zone system.

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.

Interior

7.5/10

How’s the interior? The Z4's interior is surprisingly roomy for a car this small, a boon for taller drivers looking for an occasional open-air experience. Unlike some other convertibles, you won't feel claustrophobic with the top raised. The Z4 is at or near the top of the class when it comes to headroom, shoulder room and legroom. The power-operating top moves quickly, and, when stored, doesn't eat up any cargo room in the trunk. The windshield pillar and steep windshield are something to watch out for when getting inside with the top down.

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

8/10

How’s the tech? BMW's infotainment system is robust, but it may take you a while to learn the ins and outs of the system. Voice controls work surprisingly well. The system isn't as refined as the latest one from Mercedes-Benz, but it's better than the older system that's in current Mercedes convertibles. BMW offers both wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which is still a bit of a rarity for the class. There's only one USB port, though an optional wireless charging pad can ostensibly make up for the lack of ports. The audio system is fine and provides plenty of volume with the top down, but the audio quality, even on the upgraded system, is just a bit above average.

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

7/10

How’s the storage? One of the best things the Z4 has going for it is the power-operating convertible top. Unlike many other convertibles, the top takes up no cargo space when lowered, a huge plus for those who've dealt with intrusive tops in the past.

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

8.5/10

How’s the fuel economy? The Z4 sDrive30i is rated at 27 mpg combined (24 city/32 highway), good numbers for a performance car. On our 117-mile evaluation loop, the Z4 matched its 27 mpg combined rating. Fuel efficiency of turbocharged four-cylinder engines are often highly sensitive to driving style, and the Z4 is no exception.

Value

8/10

Is the Z4 a good value? The Z4 looks and feels like a quality vehicle, with a relatively clean design and a premium feel to all the controls. It feels less spartan or bare than some rivals. And despite the lack of a fixed roof, we didn't notice any rattles or squeaks during our tests. Pricing and features are good for the class, with other German rivals offering fewer features at much higher MSRPs.

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

7/10

Despite the sharp looks and strong performance figures, the Z4 isn't as much fun to drive as you might hope. The dead steering and twitchy rear end don't inspire the sort of confidence you want from a sports car. If canyon carving is your thing, we suggest looking at something like a Porsche Boxster.

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.

2021 BMW Z4 trim level differences

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: Compare the 2021 BMW Z4 trim levels in-depth.

Which Z4 trim does Edmunds recommend?

You won't feel let down by the standard sDrive30i — it packs plenty of torque and quick acceleration. That said, the growl and thrust of the sDrive M40i's six-cylinder are intoxicating. If you can make the numbers work, the M40i will provide a more visceral sports car experience. On the options list, the Premium package stands out for its low price and wealth of added equipment.

Cost to Drive

Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia

$222/mo

$237/mo

Avg. Compact Car

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Reliability

The 2021 BMW Z4 has a 4 years / 50,000 miles basic warranty and 5 recalls. RepairPal gives it a reliability rating of 3 out of 5, ranks it #14 out of 26 among Luxury Compact Cars. Below you’ll find our owner reviews.

Reliability Rating by RepairPal

3 out of 5 stars3/5Above Average

#14 out of 26 among Luxury Compact Cars

RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.

Cost

$583/yr

vs. $554/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car

Frequency

1.49x/yr

vs. 1.57x/yr
for Average Luxury Compact Car

Severity

16.9%

vs. 11.1%
for Average Luxury Compact Car

Recalls

5 recalls found

Checking if a car has a recall is simple. Just type the car's VIN number into the NHTSA website (https://www.nhtsa.gov/recalls). If there's an unrepaired recall, you'll see it there.

If a recall shows up, just call your local car dealer. They'll know about the recall and will work with the car maker to fix it for free (if the recall happened within 10 years of the car being first sold).

Recall Number:: 26V056000
Number of vehicles affected:: 87394
Defect Description:: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021-2023 Toyota Supra, 2022-2023 2 Series Coupe, 2021-2024 5 Series (xDrive), 2021-2022 Z4, 2022-2024 4 Series (Gran Coupe), 2021-2024 4 Series (Convertible and xDrive Convertible), 2021-2023 4 Series (Coupe), 2021-2024 3 Series, 2021-2023 X4, 2021-2024 X3 vehicles. Please see the recall report for a complete list of all models. The engine starter may overheat and catch fire due to wear on an internal component.
Defect Consequence:: Fire increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed March 24, 2026. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota's customer service at 1-800-331-4331. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning March 24, 2026.

Recall Number:: 25V636000
Number of vehicles affected:: 196355
Defect Description:: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2019-2021 BMW 330i, 2019-2022 BMW Z4, 2020-2022 BMW 530i, X3, X4, Toyota Supra, 2021-2022 BMW 430i, 430i Convertible, and 2022 BMW 230i vehicles. The engine starter relay may corrode, causing the relay to overheat and short circuit.
Defect Consequence:: A short circuit in the starter relay may increase the risk of a fire.
Corrective Action:: Owners are advised to park their vehicles outside and away from structures until the remedy is complete. Dealers will replace the engine starter, free of charge. Interim notification letters informing owners of the safety risk are scheduled to be mailed November 14, 2025. Owners will receive a second notice as remedy parts become available. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417. Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) involved in this recall will be searchable on NHTSA.gov beginning November 14, 2025.

Recall Number:: 21V598000
Number of vehicles affected:: 50024
Defect Description:: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020 M340i, M340i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, X3 M40i, 2020-2021 X4 M40i, 745Le xDrive, 2019-2021 Z4 M40i, and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. During engine start, the engine management software may cause loss of braking assist. Full mechanical braking (without assist) remains available.
Defect Consequence:: Loss of braking assist can increase the risk of a crash.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will update the engine management software, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 17, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417.

Recall Number:: 21V554000
Number of vehicles affected:: 21537
Defect Description:: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2021 2 Series (230i, 230i xDrive, M240i, M240i xDrive), 330e, 330e Xdrive, 4 Series Coupe (430i, 430i xDrive, M440i xDrive) M4 Coupe, M4 Competition Coupe, BMW 4 Series Convertible (430i, M440i), BMW X1 sDrive28i, xDrive28i, 2 Series Gran Coupe (228i, 228i xDrive, M235i xDrive), M2 Competition Coupe, 330i, 330i xDrive, M340i, M340i xDrive, M3, M3 Competition, 530i, 530i xDrive, 540i, 540i xDrive, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper, CooperS, JCW), X2 sDrive28i, X2 xDrive28i, X2 M35i, Z4 sDrive30i, Z4 M40i, MINI Hardtop 2 Door (Cooper SE), MINI Convertible (Cooper, Cooper S, JCW), MINI Clubman (Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW), MINI Countryman (Cooper, Cooper All4, Cooper S, Cooper S All4, JCW All4), Rolls Royce Ghost, MINI Countryman (Cooper S E All4), Rolls Royce Phantom, Rolls Royce Cullinan, and Toyota Supra vehicles. The passenger seat belt Automatic Locking Retractor (ALR) may deactivate early, before the webbing fully retracts. As such, these assemblies fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard number 208, "Occupant Crash Protection."
Defect Consequence:: During a crash, a seat belt retractor that does not function as intended increases the risk of injury.
Corrective Action:: Dealers will inspect the seat belt retractors (including the seat belts) and, if necessary, replace the retractors, free of charge. Owner notification letters were mailed on September 3, 2021. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417; 1-866-825-1525 (MINI); 1-877-877-3735 (Rolls Royce); and 1-888-270-9371 (Toyota).

Recall Number:: 20V700000
Manufacturer Recall Number:: Toyota: 2
Number of vehicles affected:: 49
Defect Description:: BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain 2020-2021 Z4 and 2020-2021 Toyota Supra vehicles. The weld between the fuel tank halves may have been insufficiently welded, causing the weld to fail.
Defect Consequence:: The failed weld may allow fuel to leak, increasing the risk of a fire in the presence of an ignition source.
Corrective Action:: BMW will notify owners, and dealers will replace the fuel tank, free of charge. The recall began December 18, 2020. Owners may contact BMW customer service at 1-800-525-7417 or Toyota customer service at 1-888-270-9371.

Warranty

4 years / 50,000 miles Basic Warranty

Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
Rust Warranty: 12 years / unlimited miles
Roadside assistance Warranty: 4 years / unlimited miles
Free maintenance Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles

BMW Z4 Reviews

Owner Reviews

4.9

13 reviews

5(92%)

4(8%)

3(0%)

2(0%)

1(0%)

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2021 Z4 Features & Specs

Trim:

sDrive30i

Est. Market Value	$28,633
Engine Type	Gas
Combined MPG	28 MPG
Cost to Drive	$222/month
Seating	2 seats
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place	9.9 cu.ft.
Drivetrain	rear wheel drive
Warranty	4 years / 50,000 miles

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Safety

Our experts like the Z4 models:

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.

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