Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW Z4 vs rivals

We brave the elements to see if the new BMW Z4 can take the roadster crown from Porsche and Mercedes

Folding metal hard-tops claim to provide the best of both worlds – marrying cruising refinement with open-air thrills. But does the new BMW Z4 deliver on this promise?

The two-seater has a hi-tech aluminium roof in place of its predecessor’s fabric design. It’s also bigger and softer than the model it replaces, as the brand has given its sporty roadster an extra dose of sophistication. The car that BMW used as a benchmark when developing the Z4 was the Mercedes SLK.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the BMW Z4

[[{"type":"media","view_mode":"content_narrow","fid":"68419","attributes":{"alt":"","class":"media-image"}}]]

Now in its second generation, this is the model that started the folding hard-top craze. A recent round of tweaks has improved its looks and sharpened the dynamics, but while the four-cylinder SLK 200 matches our BMW on price, it falls short on pace. So, we’ve given the Z4 a tougher test by pitching it against the more expensive SLK 280.

Refinement and sophistication are all very well, but a roadster should also be great to drive – and few drop-tops are as engaging as Porsche’s Boxster. It’s £5,054 more than the Z4, but with a powerful new engine and subtle facelift, the mid-engined machine is at the top of its game. Has the new BMW got what it takes to steal victory, or will the newcomer lose its head?

Verdict

When BMW developed the Z4, it had one target: the SLK. The Mercedes is a great benchmark, combining coupé comfort and security with wind-in-the-hair roadster thrills. It also serves up refinement and elegant looks, and has a desirable badge. Ignore the breathless entry-level four-cylinder model, and the SLK even provides genuine sports car pace.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

X6

2018 BMW

X6

49,382 milesAutomaticPetrol4.4L

Cash £24,399
View X6
A4 Avant

2025 Audi

A4 Avant

35,470 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £23,299
View A4 Avant
XC40

2020 Volvo

XC40

55,835 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £21,999
View XC40
EQA

2023 Mercedes

EQA

35,890 milesAutomaticElectric

Cash £21,199
View EQA

However, it can’t match the BMW here. The Z4’s folding metal roof is equally effective, while its bold looks turn even more heads. Better still, it costs less than the Merc, is sharper to drive and just as quick in a straight line. And the EfficientDynamics technology means owners can expect superb economy and low emissions.

But great roadsters need more than good looks, strong performance and wallet-friendly running costs. They should also entertain – as the Porsche does!

The mid-engined machine is totally absorbing to drive, with controls that are full of feedback. It’s also practical, and its fabric hood is as effective as its rivals’ metal designs. Superior pace and a more desirable image help the Boxster justify its price premium.

1st: Porsche boxster
With its superbly balanced chassis and perfectly weighted controls, the Boxster is a sheer delight to drive. On top of this, the 2.9-litre engine delivers strong performance, while the cabin is impressively practical. It’s pricey, but well worth it.

2nd: BMW Z4
Buyers who are in the market for a desirable and refined roadster need look no further than the Z4. The newcomer has eye-catching styling, a fantastic interior and strong engine. What’s more, in entry-level sDrive23i trim, it’s something of a bargain.

3rd: Mercedes SLK
The SLK started the folding hard-top trend, but the competition has now caught up. There’s still a lot to like about the Mercedes, including its clever roof, smart looks and cruising comfort. Yet it’s let down by its uninspiring dynamics and disappointing pace.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen Tiguan

RRP £35,385Avg. savings £2,919 off RRP*Used from £14,800
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,785Avg. savings £4,364 off RRP*Used from £8,595
Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £26,495Avg. savings £1,672 off RRP*Used from £15,675
Vauxhall Corsa

Vauxhall Corsa

RRP £19,200Avg. savings £4,670 off RRP*Used from £14,998
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught
Skoda Epiq vRS exclusive image

New Skoda Epiq vRS to headline brand’s hot-SUV onslaught

Every future Skoda will get the go-faster treatment, with the brand also working on making cars sharper and more engaging
News
27 Jun 2025
Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy
Marcos, interior

Marcos is back! British sportscar brand’s big plan, and swirling controversy

Development is already underway on the first all-new Marcos cars in roughly 20 years
News
27 Jun 2025
Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal
BMW M5 Touring - front action

Car Deal of the Day: 717bhp BMW M5 Touring super-estate on a tasty lease deal

The BMW M5 Touring is M car royalty, with a thoroughly impressive PHEV powertrain. It’s our Deal of the Day for 29 June
News
29 Jun 2025