2006 BMW Z4: Road Test
Archived Review
2006 BMW Z4 ▼
Select a Trim ▼
- MSRP: $35,600 -$51,995
- Invoice: $32,575 -$46,685
Features & Specifications
Compare Vehicle
Related to BMW Z Series
Previous Year's Reviews
View Another Vehicle
Our road test for the 2006 BMW Z4 includes a full evaluation of the 2006 BMW Z4 from the inside out. We evaluate not only engine and handling performance for the 2006 BMW Z4, but also interior cabin and cargo space. Let our comprehensive road test ratings for the 2006 BMW Z4 help you decide if a 2006 BMW Z4 is right for you.
Advertisement
ACCELERATION
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | 9 | 8.2 |
M convertible and hatchback only models made available for test so far. M engine's high-revving nature means modest pull from a stop, but once rolling furnishes outstanding acceleration. Manual transmission has slick, crisp action with short-throws and light, manageable clutch action.
FUEL ECONOMY
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 5 | 5 | 4.2 |
Test M hatchback averaged 18.8 mpg. All Z4s require premium-grade fuel.
RIDE QUALITY
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.3 |
Appropriately firm for a high-performance car. Nearly every bump and tar strip registers through seats. Still, ride is never excessively harsh. Convertible or hatchback, body rigidity outstanding.
STEERING/HANDLING/BRAKING
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | 10 | 8.5 |
Agile, grippy, nearly flat in corners. Standard traction/antiskid control adds measure of security. Steering quick, but to some testers, has artificially heavy feel. Straightline tracking can be compromised by tires following road groves. Powerful brakes reward with impressively short, stable stops.
QUIETNESS
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 4.1 |
Abundant engine growl in rapid acceleration--which should please most Z4 drivers. Tire noise intrusive on most surfaces. Convertible tolerably quiet with top up.
CONTROLS
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 8 | 7 | 6.3 |
Gauges well-placed. Headlamp controls hidden by steering wheel, but other switchgear logical, accessible. Navigation system takes study to master, complicates some audio tuning. Ms have top-notch interior materials assembled with care, but standard aluminum trim looks more appropriately sporty here than optional wood.
ROOM/COMFORT/DRIVER SEATING (FRONT)
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 5.7 |
Spacious for all but most robust of occupants. Steering wheel tilts, telescopes manually to benefit driver positioning. Outward visibility squeezed by shape and low height of hatchback roof and, in convertible, by soft-top's wide rear sections. Low stance means difficult entry/exit in hatchback and in convertible with top up.
ROOM/COMFORT (REAR)
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 0 | 0 | .7 |
(No rear seating.)
CARGO ROOM
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 2 | 3 | 2 |
Convertible trunk not bad for a two-seat sports car. Holds several gym duffels or two rolling carry-on bags. BMW says two golf bags fit. Hatchback has slightly more cargo volume, but luggage bay is unevenly shaped. Sparse interior storage in both body styles.
VALUE WITHIN CLASS
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 4 | 4 | 4.5 |
The M convertible and hatchback are the only 2006 Z4s made available for test so far. These $50,000 cars are exceptionally capable on a racetrack, and reasonably easy to live with on the road. But the less expensive Z4s are likely the better choices here, combining the M models' basic goodness with engines, tires, and suspension tuning better suited to daily driving.
Total Score
| M convertible | M hatchback w/nav. sys. | Class Average |
|---|---|---|
| 48 | 48 | 48.5 |
Total Score: 48
Scores for all Premium Sporty/performance Cars
Car Buying Resources
Search
Local Listings
Vehicle
History Report
FREE CARFAX Record Check
Looking at a used car, check for costly hidden problems before
you buy.
