BMW Z4 review – interior and tech
The Z4 is a talented roadster with much in its favour, just don’t expect Boxster levels of tactility
The Z4’s interior demonstrates a strong family resemblance to the rest of the BMW range, so much so that the Z4’s interior feels as much like that of a saloon as a sports car: lots of kit, lots of places to put things, big dash, big screens. The main touchscreen is controlled via BMW’s slightly older iDrive system rather than the latest version in models such as latest 5-series i5 and M5. That might be a drawback to some tech-conscious buyers, but for those who find the new system (which does away with some physical buttons) awkward and confusing to use, it actually feels a bit of a luxurious relief to be able to return to the old system.
There’s space for your phone and two big cup holders under the centre armrest, and a decent boot makes the Z4 a relatively practical car. It’s pleasant and comfortable with impressive fit and finish, and what it might give away in a sense of occasion it pays back in long-distance comfort. Ironically for a sports car, the Z4 is an excellent motorway car for long journeys, which perhaps says a little about where its balance of strengths still lies.
On the flip side you do sit nice and low in the Z4, there’s plenty of adjustment for all shapes and sizes and the low-slung driving position does help to feel like you’re connected with the car. The hood itself fits well and doesn’t generate any unnecessary wind noise and it can be raised or lowered in just ten seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. With the hood down and wind deflector in place there’s very little buffeting.
Heated leather is standard, but having to pay an additional £170 for a wind deflector does gall somewhat. The hood itself fits well and doesn’t generate any unnecessary wind noise and it can be raised or lowered in just ten seconds at speeds of up to 31mph. The fabric hood, as opposed to the previous generation’s folding hard-top, also means the boot is 50 per cent bigger, and at 281 litres it’s large enough provided you pack with soft bags.
