The 2024 BMW Z4 delivers a refined roadster experience with a major addition: a six-speed manual transmission on the M40i Starting at $53,600 for the sDrive30i and $66,300 for the M40i, this two-seat convertible balances sports car performance with grand-touring comfort During highway testing, the M40i achieved an impressive 37 mpg at a sustained 75 mph, far exceeding EPA estimates
Overview: Why the Z4 Matters in 2024
The Z4 shares its platform with the Toyota GR Supra but takes a different approach While the Supra prioritizes aggressive handling, the BMW offers a retractable soft top, a more refined interior, and everyday practicality. For 2024, BMW added the six-speed manual transmission from the Supra to the M40i, addressing a key complaint from enthusiasts
This generation debuted for the 2019 model year and receives no major mechanical changes for 2024 beyond the manual option Buyers seeking an understanding of MSRP will find the Z4 positioned between the affordable Mazda Miata and the premium Porsche 718 Boxster.
2024 BMW Z4 Pricing
TrimMSRPInvoice Price0-60 mphsDrive30i$53,600$50,3505.1 secM40i$66,300~$62,1003.5 sec
Prices include $995 destination. Data from J.D. Power and Car and Driver testing
The average transaction price for the sDrive30i is approximately $58,975 after dealer negotiations New car buyers typically pay 10-11% below MSRP, translating to $5,100-$7,100 off sticker price For those comparing BMW models, see our complete 2024 Z4 breakdown.
Performance & Driving Experience
sDrive30i
The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 255 hp and 294 lb-ft of torque Car and Driver tested this trim at 5.1 seconds to 60 mph—peppy but slower than a Porsche 718 Boxster The Dynamic Handling package adds M Sport brakes and an M Sport differential for improved traction. EPA fuel economy rates at 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway
M40i
The turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six delivers 382 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque This engine propels the Z4 to 60 mph in just 3.5 seconds, making it one of the quickest convertibles under $70,000 Ordering the manual transmission adds performance-enhancing components: stiffer anti-roll bars, staggered wheels and tires, retuned adaptive suspension, and improved steering feel
During spirited driving, the Z4 pulled 1.00 g on the skidpad—impressive but lacking the razor-sharp reactions of the Porsche 718 Boxster The steering is quick, accurate, and stable on the highway, though mostly devoid of traditional feel Understanding what fuel BMW requires is essential, as premium is recommended.
Specifications
Dimensions
SpecificationValueLength170.7 inWidth73.4 inHeight51.4 inWheelbase97.2 inTrunk Volume10 cu ftPassenger Volume52 cu ft
Powertrain Options
SpecsDrive30iM40iEngine2.0L turbo 4-cyl3.0L turbo inline-6Horsepower255 hp @ 5,000 rpm382 hp @ 5,800 rpmTorque294 lb-ft368 lb-ftTransmission8-speed auto8-speed auto or 6-speed manualCurb Weight3,314 lbs3,543-3,636 lbs
Fuel Economy (EPA)
TrimCityHighwayCombinedsDrive30i25 mpg32 mpg28 mpgM40i22-23 mpg29-31 mpg26 mpg
Interior & Technology
The Z4 may have the best interior in its class, featuring luxe materials, exceptional panel fitment, and excellent control placement Despite being a two-seater, the cabin accommodates drivers taller than six feet comfortably
Standard equipment includes:
10.3-inch touchscreen with BMW iDrive
Navigation system
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
10-speaker audio system
Bluetooth streaming audio
Power-operated convertible top
With the top up, the interior is impressively quiet—so little wind or road noise that it almost feels like a coupe The top folds away in seconds with a button push. A standard wind blocker minimizes buffeting even at high speeds
Storage limitations include small door pockets and a cargo net behind the seats that doesn't hold items securely The 10-cubic-foot trunk holds enough luggage for a weekend road trip For BMW technology features, see when BMW added CarPlay.
Ownership Costs
According to Kelley Blue Book's 5-year cost-to-own analysis:
CategorysDrive30iM40iFuel (5 yr)$7,712$8,315Maintenance$3,707$3,707Insurance$17,340$18,305Repairs$1,630$1,630Depreciation$34,640$43,102Total 5-Year Cost$82,341$96,268
BMW includes complimentary scheduled maintenance for three years or 36,000 miles—a notable benefit not offered by competitors like the Nissan Z The warranty covers four years or 50,000 miles Learn more about typical BMW maintenance expenses.
Competitors Compared
VehicleStarting MSRP0-60 mphPower2024 BMW Z4 sDrive30i$53,6005.1 sec255 hp2024 BMW Z4 M40i$66,3003.5 sec382 hp2024 Porsche 718 Boxster$72,0504.6 sec296 hp2024 Toyota GR Supra$47,5753.9 sec382 hp2024 Chevrolet Corvette$70,1952.9 sec490 hp
The Z4 costs considerably less than its main rival, the Porsche 718 Boxster, while offering competitive performance The mechanically similar Toyota GR Supra delivers sharper handling but no convertible option For those considering other BMWs, explore our BMW X3 comparison or 2024 BMW 8 Series review.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Classic roadster experience with modern conveniences
Larger-than-expected 10 cu ft cargo space
Quiet interior with top up or down
Roomy cabin for a two-seater
M40i now available with six-speed manual
3-year complimentary maintenance included
Cons
Not quite as driver-focused as Porsche 718 Boxster or Supra
Thick pillars compromise outward visibility
Scant in-cabin storage
Manual transmission costs extra
No all-wheel drive option
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2024 BMW Z4?
Choose the Z4 sDrive30i if you:
Want roadster style with better fuel economy
Prefer an entry point under $55,000
Value comfort over maximum performance
Choose the Z4 M40i if you:
Want the manual transmission experience
Prioritize straight-line speed (3.5 sec 0-60)
Appreciate inline-six character and exhaust note
The 2024 BMW Z4 won't raise your heart rate as high as a Porsche 718 Boxster on a twisty mountain road However, it compensates with a comfortable, luxurious cabin and genuine everyday practicality. The addition of the manual transmission on the M40i makes this model year particularly compelling for enthusiasts seeking driver engagement Visit our BMW Z4 model page for more generation-specific details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2024 BMW Z4 a fast car?
The M40i trim accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.5 seconds with its 382-hp turbocharged inline-six, placing it among the quickest convertibles under $70,000 The base sDrive30i reaches 60 mph in 5.1 seconds
Does the 2024 BMW Z4 have a manual transmission?
Yes, the M40i trim now offers an optional six-speed manual transmission for 2024—the first time a manual has been available on this generation Z4 The manual adds stiffer suspension components and improved steering feel
Is the 2024 BMW Z4 reliable?
BMW Z4 reliability is considered average for the luxury segment. The braking system tends to be the most expensive component to repair, with an average cost around £300 (approximately $380) The included 3-year maintenance coverage helps offset ownership concerns
How does the BMW Z4 compare to the Toyota GR Supra?
The Z4 and Supra share the same platform and engines, but the Z4 offers a convertible top while the Supra is a fixed-roof coupe The Supra prioritizes aggressive handling and costs less, while the Z4 emphasizes refinement and open-air driving
References
Car and Driver. (2024). 2024 BMW Z4 Review, Pricing, and Specs.
https://www.caranddriver.com/bmw/z4-2024
Edmunds. (2024). 2024 BMW Z4 Prices, Reviews, and Pictures.
https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/z4/2024/
J.D. Power. (2024). 2024 BMW Z4 sDrive30i Roadster Pricing.
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/2024/bmw/z4/sdrive30i-roadster
Kelley Blue Book. (2024). 2024 BMW Z4 Specs, Features & Options.
https://www.kbb.com/bmw/z4/2024/specs/
TrueCar. (2024). 2024 BMW Z4 Review.
https://www.truecar.com/overview/bmw/z4/2024/
BreakerLink. (2024). How Reliable Is the BMW Z4?.
https://www.breakerlink.com/blog/buying-selling/how-reliable-is-the-bmw-z4-and-what-common-problems-do-owners-report/