BMW Z4 sDrive23i

The first-generation BMW Z4 is a tough act to follow. With its controversial ‘flame-surfaced’ bodywork, sharp driving dynamics and strong engines, the distinctive roadster was an instant hit with UK buyers when it went on sale in 2003.

Six years have passed since then, and the sporty drop-top sector has moved on. Owners now demand cruising comfort and practicality, as well as performance and driving fun. As a result the all-new Z4 has grown, and gained a fashionable folding metal roof as it aims to challenge the Mercedes SLK.

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

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Despite these changes, the newcomer clearly takes its cues from the original car. The sharp creases and bold angles have been softened and straightened, but the Z4 is still an eye-catching design.

At the front there’s a gaping version of the firm’s trademark double kidney grille and stylish swept-back headlamps, while the rear lights have more than a hint of 6-Series. If you want to turn heads, the BMW is the pick of our trio – whether the hood is up or down, it looks striking.

Settle into the driver’s seat, and it’s clear the German firm’s designers have been working just as hard to bring the cabin up to scratch. The dashboard gets a smart silver finish, while the uncluttered layout of our entry-level test car makes it easy to get comfortable. Look closely and you’ll spot plenty of neat details – including classy alloy-rimmed heating controls.

There’s plenty of space, too, with lots of leg, shoulder and headroom. You’ll also find a decent amount of stowage, although we think BMW is being a bit cheeky charging an extra £155 for a couple of storage nets, cup-holders and a lidded cubby between the driver and passenger.

One lid that comes as standard is the Z4’s new folding metal roof. It’s made of lightweight aluminium, and BMW claims it’s only 30kg heavier than the fabric hood fitted to its predecessor. The pay-off for the increase in weight is a boost in refinement – the noise level inside at 70mph is the same as in the SLK, at 70dB.

The hard-top does eat into luggage capacity, though, and when it’s folded the available space shrinks from 310 litres to a cramped 180 litres. However, dropping the roof is a straightforward process. Press the button on the centre console, and the electrically powered two-piece hood is neatly stowed away in 21 seconds.

On the move buffeting is kept to a minimum, although at higher speeds you’ll welcome the addition of the optional £205 wind deflector that fits between the two roll hoops. There are no complaints about the Z4’s performance. Even though it has the smallest capacity and least power in this test, the BMW’s 201bhp 2.5-litre engine delivers strong acceleration. It propelled the Z4 from 0-60mph in 6.4 seconds, matching the Mercedes and trailing
the Porsche by only four-tenths.

Out on the road, the BMW feels every bit as potent as its rivals. Better still, the straight-six unit is exceptionally smooth and delivers a characterful exhaust note. Point the long nose into a corner, and it’s obvious that BMW’s engineers have used the SLK as a dynamic benchmark. The previous Z4’s hard ride has been banished and the new car copes well with poor road surfaces.

All models get the firm’s Dynamic Drive Control system, which provides Normal, Sport and Sport+ settings which fine-tune the steering and throttle responses. Our car also had the optional £930 Adaptive M Sport suspension set-up, which includes the same three options for the damper settings.

Even with this kit, though, the Z4 can’t match the sharp responses or agility of the Boxster. It generates lots of grip, the steering is direct and body control excellent, but it lacks the ultimate involvement of a true sports car.

The Z4’s trump card is its price. At £28,650, it undercuts the SLK and Porsche by £3,640 and £5,054 respectively. Will this prove decisive – and
hand victory to the BMW?

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Chart position: 2
WHY: BMW’s roadster gets folding hard-top and greater refinement. Does this help push it to the top of the class?