Let your hair down and check out what’s new with the 2012 BMW Z4.
BMW Z4 Trims and Features
The Z4 is a 2-door, 2-seat convertible featuring a hard-top retractable roof. For 2012, BMW offers the Z4 in three trim levels, each with varying degrees of performance. The Z4 sDrive 28i starts at $48,650 and features a turbocharged inline-4 that replaces last year’s base inline-6. The Z4 sDrive 35i, from $55,150, gets a turbocharged inline-6 worth 300 horsepower, and the Z4 sDrive 35is, from $64,200, retains the inline-6 but gains 335 horses. Z4 traits include a stylish roadster profile, upscale interior, and strong powertrains, no matter the trim.
Expect a number of stylistic options, including trim and seat upgrades for the cabin, along with premier tech like iDrive and surround sound audio.
Check out the full list of options and have your own Z4 ready for the summer season by heading over to CarWoo!
BMW Z4 Performance
Three engines differentiate the rear-wheel drive Z4. The sDrive 28i features a 2.0 liter turbocharged inline-4 that’s capable of 240 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. A 6-speed manual transmission comes standard, and an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters is optional.
Z4 sDrive 35i trims are upgraded to a 3.0 liter turbocharged inline-6 worth 300 horsepower that’s matched by 300 lb.-ft. Transmission comes in the form either the 6-speed manual, or a standard 7-speed automated dual clutch with paddle shifters.
The Z4 sDrive 35is also gets the 3.0 liter inline-6, but receives a performance boost with 335 horsepower and 332 lb.-ft. The 7-speed automated manual is the only transmission available, though it’s good enough for a 0-60 in 4.8 seconds according to BMW.
BMW Z4 Fuel Economy
EPA estimates tag the Z4 sDrive 28i at 23/34/27 (city/highway/combined) MPG with the manual, with the 8-speed auto getting 24/33/27. Z4 sDrive 35i trims see 19/26/21 with a manual or 17/24/19 for the automatic, same as the Z4 sDrive 35is. All numbers are based off premium fuel.
BMW Z4 Interior Highlights
Critics love the space you’ll find in the Z4, and of course it wouldn’t be a BMW without an upscale feel. Obviously you must keep in mind the 2 person limit, and as is the case with most low slung roadsters, getting in and out can be difficult for the less limber among us. Beyond that, leg room is said to be more than adequate, and visibility from the driver’s seat is a plus. The 8.8” iDrive and navigation screen retracts into the dash when not in use, and the hardtop- with a 20 second opening time- gives occupants nice space and visibility when closed; BMW says it’s got 40% more glass compared to previous models.
Trunk space is a nice surprise; you’ll get 8 cubic feet with an enclosed roof, though space shrinks dramatically with the top down.
BMW Z4 Safety
Z4 safety standards include antilock disc brakes with brake drying feature, stability/traction control, a rollover protection system, rain sensing wipers, and knee airbags. Optional features come in the form of parking sensors and BMW assist emergency services.
Neither the IIHS nor NHTSA have provided crash ratings for the 2012 Z4.
BMW Z4 Summary
The 2012 Z4 is at the top of a lot of ‘best roadster’ lists. And for good reason; you’ve got maximized practicality (it is still a roadster), great performance, attractive styling, and of course that all-important fun factor. If you can manage the escalating price tag, you’ll find a great convertible to satisfy your every sense. Catch wind of the 2012 BMW Z4 with CarWoo!
