2025 BMW Z4 Review

2025 BMW Z4 – Overview

The 2025 BMW Z4 brings more than just a sporty spirit—it delivers it with an open-air twist. This soft-top roadster lets you soak up the sun while cruising the roads built for enjoyment. While it may not be as laser-focused on corner-carving precision as competitors like the Porsche 718 Boxster or the Toyota Supra (which shares BMW-based components with the Z4), it still offers plenty of excitement behind the wheel.

Under the hood, the Z4 comes standard with a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, paired with rear-wheel drive and an eight-speed automatic transmission. For those craving extra performance, a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six is available—and for the first time, it can be paired with a new six-speed manual transmission for a more engaging, hands-on driving experience.

Step inside, and you’ll find a refined interior filled with high-quality materials, a 10.3-inch infotainment screen, and comfortable space for two adults. Despite its compact size, the Z4 surprises with practicality: its trunk easily accommodated three carry-on suitcases in testing, making this stylish convertible more than capable as a daily driver.

When Is the 2025 BMW Z4 Coming Out?

BMW has announced that the 2025 Z4 will begin reaching dealerships in late fall 2024, with preorders opening earlier in the year.

What’s New for 2025 BMW Z4?

Good news for enthusiasts: the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i can now be equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, a feature long available on its mechanical sibling, the Toyota Supra. This option comes as part of the new Handschalter package—“hand shift” in German—priced at $3,500. Along with the manual gearbox, the package adds performance upgrades, including stiffer anti-roll bars and a set of more aggressive wheels and tires. BMW has also fine-tuned the adaptive suspension for models with the manual, and the steering has been recalibrated to deliver sharper road feel, enhancing the overall driving experience.

Pricing and Which One to Buy

The 2025 BMW Z4 starts at $55,675 and climbs to $71,125, depending on trim level and options.

For most buyers, the base Z4 sDrive30i represents solid value. It’s priced well below its chief competitor, the Porsche 718 Boxster, while delivering more than enough performance for everyday driving. Adding the Dynamic Handling package is worth considering—it includes larger M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential for improved traction. While the sDrive30i won’t match the blistering acceleration of the range-topping M40i, it’s lively enough to make every drive enjoyable.

Engine, Transmission, and Performance

The 2025 BMW Z4 sDrive30i is powered by BMW’s strong turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, delivering more torque than its 255 horsepower might suggest. For those craving extra excitement, the M40i model packs a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six—smooth, refined, and thrilling when pushed.

An eight-speed automatic transmission comes standard across the lineup, complete with sport and manual modes, and paddle shifters mounted on the steering wheel. The automatic is one of the class’s best, offering crisp responses, rapid shifts, and seamless operation.

For the first time, the M40i can be paired with the Handschalter package (“hand shift” in German), which adds a six-speed manual, stiffer anti-roll bars, retuned adaptive suspension, and larger, more aggressive wheels and tires. On winding roads, the Z4 is eager and composed, though it doesn’t quite match the locked-in precision of the Porsche 718 or the tense, aggressive feel of the Toyota Supra.

0–60-MPH Times

In our testing, the 2025 BMW Z4 sDrive30i reached 60 mph in 5.1 seconds—quick enough to be fun, though slightly slower than the Porsche 718 Boxster. The automatic M40i delivers a significant performance boost, hitting 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds. Even with the new six-speed manual, the M40i manages an impressive 3.9-second sprint to 60, showing that the manual doesn’t sacrifice much in terms of acceleration.

Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG

Despite its impressive performance, the 2025 BMW Z4 stands out as one of the most fuel-efficient sports cars in its category. The EPA estimates the Z4 sDrive30i achieves 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway. The more powerful Z4 M40i sees slightly lower fuel efficiency, with ratings of 22 mpg city and 29 mpg highway. Choosing the six-speed manual transmission further reduces fuel economy to 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway.

In real-world testing, the automatic M40i exceeded expectations on a 75-mph highway route, achieving an impressive 37 mpg. For detailed fuel economy information on the Z4, you can visit the EPA’s website.

Interior, Comfort, and Cargo

Like other modern BMWs, the 2025 BMW Z4 boasts a high-quality interior—arguably the best in its class. Luxurious materials, precise panel fitment, and thoughtfully placed controls create a refined driving environment. The seats are comfortable, with ample bolstering to keep you secure while enjoying the Z4’s spirited handling, and the cabin offers more space than you might expect, even for drivers taller than six feet.

The well-insulated cloth roof seals tightly, making the interior surprisingly quiet with the top up—almost like a coupe. With the push of a button, the soft top folds away in seconds, and the standard wind blocker does an excellent job reducing buffeting when driving at high speeds.

Storage is generous for a small roadster. The cabin includes several compartments, such as a center console bin, a felt-lined cubby to the left of the steering wheel, a netted shelf behind the seats, and two large front cupholders. The trunk measures 10 cubic feet—enough to fit luggage for two on a weekend getaway—offering a rare touch of practicality in a stylish convertible.

Infotainment and Connectivity

The 2025 BMW Z4 comes standard with a 10.3-inch touchscreen, complete with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. BMW’s iDrive system offers crisp graphics and a user-friendly interface. It can be operated via the central console’s knob and buttons or through intuitive voice commands. A USB port and Bluetooth audio streaming are standard, while SiriusXM satellite radio is available as an optional upgrade.

Safety and Driver-Assistance Features

The 2025 BMW Z4 comes standard with forward-collision warning, daytime pedestrian detection with city braking, and BMW’s lane-departure warning system. Additional driver-assistance technologies are available as options on both models, including adaptive cruise control, active blind-spot monitoring, rear-collision protection, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Key safety features include:

• Standard forward-collision warning with pedestrian detection

• Available adaptive cruise control

• Available blind-spot monitoring

For detailed crash-test ratings, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites.

Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

BMW’s warranty is on par with competitors, but its complimentary scheduled maintenance program stands out. This coverage is not offered on the Nissan Z, and Chevrolet only covers the first maintenance visit for Corvette owners.

• Limited warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Powertrain warranty: 4 years or 50,000 miles

• Complimentary scheduled maintenance: 3 years or 36,000 miles

2025 BMW Z4 Specifications

Final Verdict

The 2025 BMW Z4 strikes an ideal balance between luxury and performance. While not as hardcore as a Porsche 718 Boxster, it delivers a more comfortable ride and better daily livability. If you want a convertible that’s stylish, fun, and practical enough for everyday use, the new Z4 is a standout choice.

2025 BMW Z4 Video