The BMW Z4 is a two-door, rear-wheel-drive sports car available as a roadster convertible and coupe. The Z4 roadster replaced the Z3 for 2003, while the Z4 coupe joined the lineup for 2006. The Z3 was the first of a new wave of German roadsters to be introduced in early 1996, and the first BMW roadster to be sold in America since 1959, when the hoary 507 was discontinued. While the Z4 roadster comes in two trims: 3.0i and 3.0si, the Z4 coupe only has a single trim: the 3.0si. The basic warranty is for 48 months or 50,000 miles. If you are on the lookout for a two-seater that delivers outstanding performance and the glamour of a high-end nameplate, the BMW Z4 is the choice to consider.

In 2006, the BMW Z4's styling was changed dramatically; and remains essentially the same for 2008. The Z4 now has a 3.0-liter, in-line, six-cylinder engine that generates 215 horsepower for the 3.0i roadster trim and 255 horsepower for the roadster and coupe 3.0si trims. All models come with a standard six-speed manual transmission; an optional six-speed automatic replaces last year's five-speed automatic transmission. For both trims and body styles, the 2008 fuel economy estimate is 18 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway (for MT-equipped cars). The 2008 BMW Z4 scores on all performance aspects, including acceleration, braking and handling. It is suitable for everyday driving, but wind and road noise might become bothersome while speeding on highways. The ride comfort on rough roads is another point. Also, some drivers might find the suspension offered in the sport package (optional this year) rather stiff.

For 2008, notable changes for the coupe are a reworked rear and a sloping, rigid metal roof. Convertibles have a fabric top and a glass rear window. The BMW Z4 has a standard tire-pressure monitor and auxiliary audio input. A new color - saddle brown - has also been introduced. The leather and premium packages now include a four-year subscription to BMW Assist. The 3.0i version comes with an optional sport package that includes 18-inch wheels. Also offered is a one-touch power operation for the convertible's soft top, auto-dimming mirrors, xenon headlights, power seats, memory for the driver seat, and Bluetooth. Other options for the BMW Z4 include sport seats, heated seats, upgraded leather upholstery, a navigation system, satellite radio and HD radio.

The BMW Z4 earned four stars out of five in NHTSA's frontal-impact occupant protection crash tests, and three stars for side-impact safety. Standard features across trims include dynamic stability control; knee air bags; side-impact air bags; rollover protection; child seat anchor points for the passenger seat; and four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes.