BMW Z4 review - Interior & comfort
Z4 has a high-quality interior, but it relies on older tech and lacks a sense of occasion
If the Z4's driving dynamics suggest it isn’t a true rival for the Porsche Boxster or Alpine A110, its interior does even more to widen the gap. While both its rivals, but especially the Alpine, have a pared-down, minimalist feel inside that emphasises their sports car spirit, the Z4 is far more like a sporty saloon or coupe inside. In fact, the dashboard has an overwhelming similarity to that of the pre-facelifted BMW 3 Series and its steering wheel feels a bit larger and thicker than is ideal.
Disappointingly, the Z4 isn’t getting BMW’s latest Curved Panel infotainment setup of most BMW models, instead making do with a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. It's tidy in layout and easy to use, and its build quality is beyond reproach. Also excellent are the seats. They're superbly supportive when you're vigorously tackling a country lane, yet comfortable on a long motorway journey.
Many will say, though, that while the Z4 scores well for quality, ease of use and interior features, it doesn't have that unique, tailor-made feeling that some other sports cars do.
Equipment
The Z4's standard equipment list looks rather more coupe than sports car, too. Two trim levels have been offered; Sport and M Sport, but for the facelifted Z4 only the latter remains. Both look suitably aggressive on the outside, with 18-inch alloy wheels, LED lighting all round and gloss-black details. The M Sport has more pronounced contouring to the bumpers and side skirts, a new hexagonal grille and a different design of alloys.
Inside, there are sports seats and an ‘M’ steering wheel, pedals and footrest, along with leather trim for the dashboard. The dashboard is dominated by BMW's LiveCockpit system, with sat nav and Bluetooth compatibility, and music can be enjoyed via a ten-speaker stereo.
The Handschalter Pack not only brings the manual gearbox, but also a unique specification that includes a unique Frozen Deep Green livery, paired with a caramel Cognac leather interior and gloss black interior trim. It’s fitted with staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear alloy wheels, along with some different exterior trim and door mirror housings designed to smooth airflow. There are red brake calipers and the option to have the roof in black or Anthracite Silver.
Options
Key options include adaptive LED headlamps whose beams can alter to avoid dazzling oncoming traffic when driving on full beam, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo and a head-up dashboard display.
While autonomous emergency braking is standard, other driver-assistance technology is reserved for the options list. You'll need to pay extra for lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control or parking assistance.
