Skip advert
Advertisement

BMW Z4 vs rivals

Is the new turbo BMW Z4 the best choice for top-down fun? We test it against its rivals from Audi and Nissan

BMW Z4 vs rivals

Take one roadster. Add a twisty road and stir in some beautiful views. Finish with dry, sunny weather for a truly unforgettable experience. It’s a simple recipe, but any car enthusiast will tell you it’s hard to beat a good roadster for driving thrills. So which should you buy?

BMW’s latest entry-level Z4 is a strong choice. The inefficient straight-six engine has been replaced by a four-cylinder turbo, making the car cleaner, faster and more economical. But can it beat two talented rivals?

Advertisement - Article continues below

First in line to see how the Z4 measures up is the Audi TT Roadster, which has been available with a turbocharger for years. The brilliant 2.0-litre TFSI model sets the class benchmark for the BMW to beat.

If it’s old-fashioned cubic inches you’re after, the final car in our line-up has the answer. The Nissan 370Z Roadster follows a more traditional approach, with a naturally aspirated 3.7-litre V6. So is that old-school character enough to power it to victory in this company?

Verdict

Roadsters make lots of compromises in the pursuit of driving fun, and the car that demands the fewest wins here. The Audi TT appeals on every level. Whether you want an eye-catching car to impress the neighbours, something for weekend open-air thrills or an everyday driver, it’s the one to have.

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement - Article continues below

Used - available now

Z4

2025 BMW

Z4

4,189 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £32,995
View Z4
Z4

2016 BMW

Z4

41,947 milesManualPetrol2.0L

Cash £13,999
View Z4
Z4

2025 BMW

Z4

18,803 milesAutomaticPetrol2.0L

Cash £29,772
View Z4
Z4

2025 BMW

Z4

12,674 milesAutomaticPetrol3.0L

Cash £39,032
View Z4

It stands out with its assured handling, high-quality hood and classy interior. And if you think this S line looks expensive, lesser models are cheaper, without demanding huge dynamic sacrifices or styling compromises.

Second place goes to the BMW. The new turbocharged engine will mean it costs less to run than before, but the Z4 doesn’t have much personality and its hard-top feels over-engineered compared to the Audi’s simple fabric roof.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Bringing up the rear is the Nissan. It’s still able to put a smile on your face on the right road, yet has too many flaws to finish anywhere but last.

Winner
Audi TT Roadster ★★★★★
We were expecting a close fight, but the Audi merely underlined its superiority. From its unique looks and classy cabin to its composed chassis and lively engines, everything about the TT has been beautifully crafted. The result is a car that’s very rewarding to live with and own.

2nd
BMW Z4 ★★★★
The turbocharged engine addresses many problems, but also creates some new ones. The 2.0-litre is more efficient and less polluting than before, but it has taken away some of the charm of the old straight-six Z4. Plus, while the engine is new, BMW has done nothing to fix the chassis, which is still tuned for comfort, not handling.

3rd
Nissan 370z Roadster ★★★
Flashes of brilliance from the 370Z are marred by too many flaws. If you can put up with the awkward driving position, tiny boot, flimsy hood and thirsty engine, this is a capable sports car. It’s fine for a short blast, but hard to recommend on a longer-term basis.

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

BMW Z4

BMW Z4

RRP £34,185Used from £20,000
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £3,135 off RRP*
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £38,140Avg. savings £3,019 off RRP*Used from £11,695
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £5,924 off RRP*Used from £12,295
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production
Range Rover Sport SV Black - front

Range Rover Sport SV gets massive £35k price drop as it enters series-production

There’s also a new SV Black trim, and a Range Rover Sport Stealth Package for non SVs
News
1 Jul 2025
Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model
Ferrari Amalfi - front static

Arrivederci Roma: new Ferrari Amalfi slots in as brand’s latest entry-level model

A slick new look and more power are the headlines for Ferrari’s new baby, but it’s probably some simple new buttons that will get customers’ attention
News
1 Jul 2025
Geely is coming to the UK, and its assault will start with EX5 SUV
Geely EX5 - front

Geely is coming to the UK, and its assault will start with EX5 SUV

Geely has looked to Lotus to ensure it's new electric SUV lives up to our driving expectations
News
2 Jul 2025