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The 2023 BMW Z4 delivers confident handling and punchy turbocharged engines in a package refined enough for daily driving[1]. Starting at $52,800 for the sDrive30i and $65,300 for the M40i, this two-seat roadster bridges the gap between affordable sports cars and premium Porsches[2]. The key update for 2023 is the M Sport package becoming standard on the four-cylinder model, enhancing both performance and visual appeal[1].
Overview: What’s New for 2023
BMW made the M Sport package standard on the sDrive30i for 2023, eliminating the need to option it separately[1]. This package includes M Sport suspension for sharper handling, an aerodynamic body kit, and an M Sport steering wheel[1]. A new 19-inch wheel design with matte black finish and diamond-polished edges is available, along with the M Shadowline lighting package featuring black headlamp inserts[1].
Three new paint colors joined the lineup: Thundernight Metallic, Portimao Blue Metallic, and Skyscraper Grey Metallic[1]. Unlike the mechanically similar Toyota GR Supra, the Z4 remains automatic-only for 2023[1]. For those exploring MSRP definitions, the Z4 pricing represents competitive positioning in the premium roadster segment.
2023 BMW Z4 Pricing
| Trim | MSRP | As-Tested | 0-60 mph |
|---|---|---|---|
| sDrive30i | $52,800 | ~$58,000 | 5.1 sec |
| M40i | $65,300 | $73,370 | 3.5 sec |
Prices include destination. Data from Car and Driver testing[1][3]
Used 2023 Z4 prices currently range from $38,257 for the sDrive30i to $51,241 for the M40i[4]. The Z4 holds its value better than most vehicles, with a 44% depreciation rate after five years compared to the 60% average[5]. Understanding BMW maintenance costs helps budget for long-term ownership.
Performance & Driving Experience
sDrive30i
The 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 255 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque[1]. Car and Driver tested it at 5.1 seconds to 60 mph—peppy but slightly slower than a Porsche 718 Boxster[1]. The Dynamic Handling package adds M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential for additional traction[1].
EPA fuel economy rates at 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway[1]. With the 48V mild hybrid system, real-world efficiency often exceeds estimates during normal driving[6].
M40i
The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six delivers 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque[1]. This engine achieves 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds and covers the quarter-mile in 12.0 seconds at 116 mph[1]. On Car and Driver’s 75-mph highway test, the M40i far exceeded its EPA rating with an impressive 37 mpg[1].
Adaptive M Sport dampers provide a versatile ride, though even in Comfort mode, the suspension favors communication over cushion[3]. The Z4 pulled 1.00 g on the skidpad during testing[1]. For those comparing BMW performance models, explore our 2023 BMW M3 review.
Specifications
Dimensions
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Length | 170.7 in |
| Width | 73.4 in |
| Height | 51.4 in |
| Wheelbase | 97.2 in |
| Trunk Volume | 10 cu ft |
| Passenger Volume | 52 cu ft |
Powertrain Options
| Spec | sDrive30i | M40i |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L turbo 4-cyl | 3.0L turbo inline-6 |
| Horsepower | 255 hp @ 5,000 rpm | 382 hp @ 6,500 rpm |
| Torque | 294 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Curb Weight | 3,314 lbs | 3,636 lbs |
Fuel Economy (EPA)
| Trim | City | Highway | Combined |
|---|---|---|---|
| sDrive30i | 25 mpg | 32 mpg | 28 mpg |
| M40i | 22-23 mpg | 29-31 mpg | 26 mpg |
Interior & Technology
The Z4 may have the best interior in its class, featuring luxe materials, exceptional panel fitment, and excellent control placement[1]. Comfortable seats with sizable bolsters hold occupants firmly during spirited driving, and even drivers taller than six feet fit comfortably[1].
Standard equipment includes:
- 10.3-inch touchscreen with iDrive
- Navigation system
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth streaming audio
- USB port
- Power-folding soft top[1]
The well-insulated cloth roof seals tightly. With the top up, the interior is impressively quiet—so little wind or road noise it almost feels like a coupe[1]. The top folds in seconds with a button push, and a standard wind blocker minimizes buffeting even at high speeds[1].
Storage includes several cabin bins, a felt-lined cubby near the steering wheel, a netted shelf behind the seats, two big cupholders, and a center console compartment[1]. The 10-cubic-foot trunk accommodates luggage for a weekend road trip[1]. For BMW technology features, see when CarPlay became available.
Reliability & Ownership Costs
RepairPal gives the BMW Z4 a 3.0 out of 5.0 reliability rating, ranking it 14th out of 17 luxury compact cars[5]. Annual repair and maintenance costs average approximately $900—higher than the $800 typical for luxury cars and $650 for all vehicles[5].
Kelley Blue Book owner ratings show above-average reliability at 4.8 out of 5 for the third-generation Z4[4]. Common issues reported include steering dead zones, coolant loss, and occasional roof mechanism problems[5].
Warranty Coverage:
- Limited warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Powertrain warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles
- Complimentary scheduled maintenance: 3 years / 36,000 miles[1]
BMW’s complimentary maintenance coverage is a standout benefit not offered by the Nissan Z[1]. Learn more about BMW fuel requirements and coolant specifications.
Competitors Compared
| Vehicle | Starting MSRP | 0-60 mph | Power |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive30i | $52,800 | 5.1 sec | 255 hp |
| 2023 BMW Z4 M40i | $65,300 | 3.5 sec | 382 hp |
| 2023 Porsche 718 Boxster | $65,000 | 4.6 sec | 296 hp |
| 2023 Toyota GR Supra | ~$43,540 | 3.9 sec | 382 hp |
| 2023 Chevrolet Corvette | $64,495 | 2.9 sec | 490 hp |
The Z4 costs considerably less than the Porsche 718 Boxster at base price while offering competitive performance[1]. The mechanically similar Toyota GR Supra delivers sharper handling and now offers a manual transmission, but has no convertible option[1]. Visit our BMW Z4 model page for generation-specific details.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Punchy turbocharged engines (3.5 sec 0-60 in M40i)[1]
- Quiet cruising with the top up[1]
- Sweet open-air driving experience[1]
- Class-leading interior quality[1]
- M Sport package now standard on sDrive30i[1]
- 3-year complimentary maintenance included[1]
Cons
- No manual transmission option for 2023[1]
- Handling not as sharp as Supra or 718 Boxster[1]
- Exclusively rear-wheel drive[1]
- Firm ride quality on rough roads[7]
- Higher-than-average ownership costs[5]
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2023 BMW Z4?
Choose the Z4 sDrive30i if you:
- Want roadster style with better fuel economy
- Prefer an entry point around $53,000
- Value the now-standard M Sport package
Choose the Z4 M40i if you:
- Prioritize straight-line speed (3.5 sec 0-60)
- Appreciate inline-six character and exhaust note
- Plan spirited weekend drives
The 2023 BMW Z4 is not as focused as the Porsche 718 Boxster or Toyota GR Supra, but it’s plenty engaging and easy to live with on a daily basis[1]. Its combination of refined interior, practical convertible operation, and strong performance makes it ideal for buyers who want one sports car that handles commuting and canyon carving equally well. For more BMW options, explore our complete 2023 Z4 breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2023 BMW Z4 a good car?
The 2023 BMW Z4 earns a 4.3 out of 5 rating from Kelley Blue Book, reflecting its strong performance, premium interior, and competitive pricing[4]. It balances sports car fun with daily-driver refinement better than many competitors.
Does the 2023 BMW Z4 have a manual transmission?
No, the 2023 BMW Z4 is available only with an eight-speed automatic transmission[1]. BMW did not add the six-speed manual option (available in the twin Toyota Supra) until the 2024 model year.
How reliable is the 2023 BMW Z4?
References
- Car and Driver. (2023). 2023 BMW Z4 Review, Pricing, and Specs. https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/z4-2023
- Edmunds. (2023). 2023 BMW Z4 Review & Ratings. https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/z4/2023/
- The Drive. (2023). 2023 BMW Z4 M40i Review. https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/2023-bmw-z4-m40i-review-were-really-glad-its-still-here
- Kelley Blue Book. (2023). 2023 BMW Z4 Price, Value, Ratings & Reviews. https://www.kbb.com/bmw/z4/2023/
- CarParts.com. (2023). BMW Z4 Reliability and Common Problems. https://www.carparts.com/blog/bmw-z4-reliability-and-common-problems/
- Downshift Media. (2023). 2 WORST And 7 BEST Things About The 2023 BMW Z4.
- WUWM. (2023). 2023 BMW Z4 sDrive30i Convertible Review. https://www.wuwm.com/2023-10-15/2023-bmw-z4-sdrive30i-convertible-review
I am a senior automotive analyst at Autvex. Expert vehicle evaluations, in-depth reviews, and objective analysis helping readers make informed automotive decisions with years of industry experience.
