2005 BMW Z4: Road Test
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2005 BMW Z4 ▼
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- MSRP: $34,300 -$41,300
- Invoice: $31,395 -$37,765
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Our road test for the 2005 BMW Z4 includes a full evaluation of the 2005 BMW Z4 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2005 BMW Z4, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2005 BMW Z4 help you decide if a 2005 BMW Z4 is right for you.
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ACCELERATION
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 8 | 8.1 |
Z4 2.5i no slouch: 6.8 sec 0-60 mph with manual transmission in our tests. Z4 3.0i even quicker: 5.8 sec with manual. Both manual transmissions smooth, easy to shift, though some testers pine for a firmer, more mechanical feel. Automatic transmission quick to downshift, supplies plenty of passing punch, even in 2.5i. To some testers, throttle too sensitive in Dynamic Driving Control's sport setting.
FUEL ECONOMY
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4.4 |
With manual transmission, test 2.5i models averaged 20.8-25.7 mpg in mixed city/highway driving, a stingy 28.4 in mostly highway use, test 3.0i models 20.9-22.9. No opportunity to measure with automatic transmission. Both engines require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 4 | 3 | 2 | 4 |
Appropriately firm. Some testers say 18-inch tires in 3.0i's Sport Package make ride too jarring on all but smooth pavement. Others find Z4's tail rebounds over dips more than expected. Body rigidity outstanding for a convertible.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | 9 | 10 | 10 | 8.6 |
Agile, grippy, nearly flat in corners, Z4 defines driving fun. Standard antiskid/traction control adds measure of security. Steering quick, predictable, nicely weighted. Straightline tracking compromised by widest tires following road groves. Some testers find Dynamic Driving Control's sport setting imparts artificially heavy steering feel. Braking short, stable.
QUIETNESS
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 3 | 3 | 3.9 |
Typical top-down convertible wind and road noise. Top up, Z4 2.5i impressively quiet for a sports car. But 17- and 18-inch tires can annoy with slap and rumble--especially the 18s.
CONTROLS
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 | 6.2 |
Gauges well-placed. Audio-system readouts wash away in direct sunlight. Headlamp controls hidden by steering wheel. Top-notch interior materials assembled with care.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5.6 |
Spacious for all but most robust of occupants. Steering wheel tilts, telescopes to benefit driver positioning. Some testers want more lower-back support. Good visibility top down except for interference from roll bars. Like most convertibles, poor rear visibility top up. Low stance means difficult entry/exit with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | .4 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 | 2 |
Trunk not bad for a 2-seat sports car. Holds several gym duffels or two rolling carry-on bags. BMW says two golf bags fit. Little interior storage.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 6 | 8 | 6 | 4.6 |
An excellent balance of performance, refinement, and driving excitement, the Z4 qualifies as a Recommended pick. Against prime competitors, the 3.0i is a credible alternative to the more-expensive Porsche Boxster.
Total Score
| 2.5i w/Sport Pkg., man. | 2.5i, auto. | 3.0i, man. | 3.0i w/Sport Pkg., auto. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 | 47 | 51 | 48 | 47.8 |
Total Score: 49
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
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