Model tested: BMW Z4 sDrive 23i, BMW Z4 sDrive 35i
Price: £28,645, £37,060
Date tested: May 2009
Road tester: Adrian Higgins

Overall rating: 78%
We drove the 2009 Z4 from north Scotland to London, covering over 1,000 miles. The stretch from Ullapool to London, proved the roadster has made huge strides following its latest overhaul.

1. Looks
The new Z4 is a beauty and moves the two-seater on considerably. The biggest single development sees the introduction of a tin-top convertible roof; the only guise offered. The roof raises and stows in 20 seconds.
9/10

2. Looks inside
There's now more headroom, shoulder room and elbow room, aiding usability greatly. Enhanced visibility adds to the feeling of lid-down motoring, however; only the heaviest rain forced us to put the roof up.
8/10

3. Practicality
Tin-top folding roofs compromise boot space; the Z4's 310-litre boot shrinks to just 180 litres with the roof down. There's a 10-litre glovebox, plus a multitude of other cubby holes.
8/10

4. Ride and Handling
The steering's sensitivity has been reduced at the initial turn, but the throttle and steering response are adjustable. The bodyshell is 25 per cent stiffer while the retractable roof is just 30kg heavier than the coupe.
8/10

5. Performance
The flagship Z4 sDrive 35i delivers a 0-62mph time of 5.2 seconds and hits a limited top speed of 155mph with torque of 295Ib/ft. The 258hp Z4 sDrive 30i covers the sprint in 5.8 seconds and also has a 155mph top speed.
9/10

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6. Running Costs
The 35i returns 30.1mpg and generates 219g/km CO2; the 30i returns 33.2mpg and generates 199g/km CO2. The Z4 holds its value well and should be worth around 45 per cent of its original cost after three years.
7/10

7. Reliability
The Z4 is now in its second generation and the German manufacturer has a long history of roadster production. We experienced no problems during our drive.
7/10

8. Safety
All models have front and side airbags, ESP, Electronic Brake Force Distribution and Traction Control, plus run-flat tyres.
7/10

9. Equipment
Standard features on the sDrive 23i include 17-inch alloy wheels, xenon headlights, CD/radio, two-zone and air conditioning. The sDrive3.0i adds leather trim and automatic wipers and headlights while the sDrive3.5i gets electric seats.
6/10

10. X-Factor
There are a few contenders. The retractable roof is a huge plus and the engine line-up impressive. But we reckon BMW has really nailed it with this new design. Great looking car.
9/10