2008 BMW Z4

As is the case with many two-seater roadsters, the convertible Z4's cockpit is a bit Spartan, though the coupe version offers more; Cars.com reports that "controls are well spaced on a distinctive dashboard." Edmunds reports that the BMW 2008 roadster has "lots of standard metallic trim...wood trim is available for those seeking a more classic look." In this BMW 2008 coupe version, Kelley Blue Book says "brushed-aluminum dash and console accents are set off by a 'pearl gloss galvanic' finish on the door pulls...buyers can opt for no-cost Carbon Leather in place of the standard aluminum trim, or move up to optional polished Madeira Wood. "

The high-performance M Roadster and hatchback coupe are defined by the 330-horsepower, 3.2-liter inline-six under their hood. With this engine, 0-60 mph comes up in around five seconds, and the Z4 keeps on running up to an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. Edmunds says the Z4 M experience requires a leap of faith beyond its stats: “Owing to their light weight, sharp reflexes and aggressively quick acceleration, both coupe and convertible offer competent drivers a thrilling experience.“ Still, Car and Driver finds it doesn’t “measure up to the dynamic goodness of the Porsche Cayman series,” a sentiment with which Edmunds agrees.

The Z4’s fuel economy is decent, if not stellar by today's standards: ConsumerGuide reports "coupe and convertible both averaged 18.8 mpg," noting "Z4s require premium-grade gas." The M versions have fuel economy of 15/22 mpg.

Handling and steering are terrific, but the ride is a little harsh across the Z4 lineup. Car and Driver notes that this 2008 BMW is "a much nimbler handler in the corners than the skittish Z3 it replaced." Cars.com notes the BMW 2008 Z4 models' "weight distribution is even and handling is competent...the electric power steering is better than that in some cars, but it's not great." Edmunds reviewers praised it overall: "braking and handling are all excellent...from an everyday driver standpoint, the Z4 is still mostly agreeable." ForbesAutos reports the "suspension is firm, which makes for excellent cornering, but the ride can be harsh over uneven pavement." Edmunds feels the M versions are edgy—maybe too edgy. “The car's sharp responses -- the quick steering, instantaneous throttle and direct brakes -- won't reward a casual driving style,” they report. Ride quality is a concern noted by most outlets; Car and Driver calls it “harsh.”

Cargo space aboard this BMW 2008 is "generous…more than enough storage room for two people on a four- or five-day road trip," according to Car and Driver, which goes on to report that "one driver managed to get a sewing machine, several gallons of paint, brushes, and rollers, and other odds and ends in the trunk while running errands." Cars.com says that this 2008 BMW's "Interior storage is so-so, with narrow door pockets and a tiny glove compartment that has no lock, leaving it accessible if you park the car with its top down," but notes that "the center storage behind the driver's right shoulder locks automatically along with the doors." Edmunds reports that, amazingly, "lowering the top doesn't result in compromises with regard to storage space in the trunk...the roadster's 9-cubic-foot trunk capacity remains almost unchanged."

The BMW 2008 Z4's controls leave something to be desired; Car and Driver complains that "the onboard computer's ergonomics were confoundedly complicated, frustrating and angering drivers and passengers alike. Any attempt to change function involved multiple menus." Beyond that, ConsumerGuide reports "Z4s have quality interior materials assembled with care," while Edmunds comments on the somewhat Spartan interior: "Simplicity is the prevailing aesthetic within the 2008 BMW Z4's cabin. This is a driver's car, and as such, the cockpit's furnishings offer little to shift your focus from the road. The cabin offers a broad dash, pleasant gauges, firm sport seats and not much else."

Cars.com reminds car buyers that "the dual-layer soft-top helps cut down on noise, but this is clearly a convertible," so a certain amount of road noise is to be expected. ConsumerGuide says that the BMW 2008 "engines make an enthusiast-pleasing full-throttle growl yet are reasonably quiet at lower rpm...tire noise is intrusive on most surfaces."

Cars.com reports that "side-impact airbags, knee airbags, antilock brakes and BMW's Dynamic Stability Control electronic stability system are standard" for this BMW 2008, as is a cutoff switch for the front passenger airbag and tire pressure monitoring system. Edmunds reports that every Z4 BMW 2008 "comes standard with antilock disc brakes, run-flat tires, rollover protection (for the convertible), stability control, side airbags and active knee protection."

There are some driver visibility problems; ConsumerGuide reports that visibility behind the wheel of this 2008 BMW "is compromised by the low seating position along with the coupe's slanted roofline and convertible's top and roll bars." Cars.com describes the BMW 2008 model's visibility as "questionable," although "close to the driver's head, the glass rear window provides a decent view." Parking this BMW 2008 "can be tricky due to the obstructed view and difficulty judging over the trunk and hood exactly where the rounded body ends."

Edmunds notes "the roadster has a traditional, manually operated convertible soft top with a defroster-equipped glass rear window" as standard and the power top as an option.

Optional equipment for this BMW 2008 vehicle is abundant, but can add to the price quickly and considerably. It includes a 10-speaker Carver/THX Certified sound system, Kelley Blue Book reports, along with a power-operated top and a choice of interior trims, Bluetooth, and a navigation system.