BMW Z4 roadster - Interior & comfort
Z4 has a high-quality interior, but it relies on older tech and lacks a sense of occasion
If the Z4's driving dynamics suggest it isn’t a true rival for the Porsche Boxster or Alpine A110, its interior does even more to widen the gap. While both its rivals, but especially the Alpine, have a pared-down, minimalist feel inside that emphasises their sports car spirit, the Z4 is far more like a sporty saloon or coupe inside. In fact, the dashboard has an overwhelming similarity to that of the pre-facelifted BMW 3 Series.
Disappointingly, the Z4 isn’t getting BMW’s latest Curved Panel infotainment setup of most BMW models, instead making do with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It's tidy in layout and easy to use, and its build quality is beyond reproach. Also excellent are the seats. They're superbly supportive when you're vigorously tackling a country lane, yet comfortable on a long motorway journey.
Many will say, though, that while the Z4 scores well for quality, ease of use and interior features, it doesn't have that unique, tailor-made feeling that some other sports cars do.
Equipment
The Z4's standard equipment list looks rather more coupe than sports car, too. Two trim levels have been offered; Sport and M Sport, but for the facelifted Z4 only the latter remains. Both look suitably aggressive on the outside, with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting all round and gloss-black details. The M Sport has more pronounced contouring to the bumpers and side skirts, a new hexagonal grille and a different design of alloys.
Inside, there are sports seats and ‘M’ steering wheel, pedals and footrest, along with leather trim for the dashboard. The dashboard is dominated by BMW's LiveCockpit system, with sat nav and Bluetooth compatibility, and music can be enjoyed via a ten-speaker stereo.
Early buyers could choose the Z4 M40i First Edition, which was even more lavishly equipped. Finished in special Frozen Orange metallic paint with a contrasting anthracite roof, the First Edition boasts extra gloss exterior accents that include the mirror housings, and special bi-colour 19-inch alloy wheels. Adaptive LED headlamps are standard. Inside, the seats are electrically adjustable with a memory feature, there's a head-up display and an upgraded Harman Kardon stereo.
Options
Key options include adaptive LED headlamps whose beams can alter to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic when driving on full beam, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo and a head-up dashboard display.
While autonomous emergency braking is standard, other driver-assistance technology is reserved for the options list. You'll need to pay extra for lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control or parking assistance.