2021 BMW Z4 in-depth review - better than a Boxster?

The third-generation BMW Z4 represents a move back to basics for the car, thanks to a new fabric folding roof instead of the previous model’s metal hard-top. The car also gets a new look, a plush interior and a range of powerful engines, including a range-topping six-cylinder petrol. But can the latest Z4 match the Porsche 718 Boxster for roof-down thrills? Nicola Hume heads to the Carbuyer test track to find out.

Follow us:

Carbuyer makes car buying simple. We're the only automotive brand that's approved by the Plain English Campaign, delivering you clear, concise and easy to understand information about the things that really matter when you're choosing - and buying - your next car.

[carbuyer]

Summer’s on the way; do you have a favourite convertible?

[MrZaragon]

I always wondered what a female version of Mat Watson would be like - and now we know! Come on TV companies give them a show together!

[austinokomol]

After so many years, you are a proper matt watson replacement. Love from Kenya.

[DoctorSkillz]

This young lady had revitalized my interest in this channel. Kudos to the team at Car Buyer.

[shanjanusman]

Nicola is one of the best reviewers out there

[bto]

This was a really good review. Very well presented. Well done.

[aclosson]

Just placed an order today for a 2021 Z4 30i M Sport with the Premium Package, Lava Red interior, and the Dynamic Handling Package. They tell me it'll be delivered in 7 or 8 weeks. The price of the M40i wasn't an issue. The reason I chose the 30i is how well balanced it is in the twisties in comparison. The 30i has a perfect 50/50 weight distribution and it makes a huge difference in handling.

She has the same "fun" as the french reviewers.. that's really cool ! In general, we don't see that "hapiness" on the american/english reviewers (it's my opinion) :) and by the way, i'm french and my english is not perfect.. she is "alive" and really "understandable" for people who don't speak too much english.
Great video, i'm happy because i understood everything 😁 thank you carbuyer women (and sorry for my english)

[zacariasbonifacio]

Despite the fact you are a great reviewer, I compeltely disagree with you on the review, specially regarding the aspects of the interior. BMW didn´t want to do a Boxter competitor, instead they wanted to do a 2 seat convertible executive car, for every day driver, like me! And thats why te inteiror has some space, the trunk is bigger and the suspension is comfortable.

[TreesOnTheBeach]

What a great review. You brits are all right. :)

I don't think I'd rather have a Boxster... I can't fit in one!

[woofwoof]

z4 m40i and cls 53 amg. which one is ur favorite?

[michaeltsoi]

Love Nicola's reviews, informative and very funny, makes me giggle 😂

[JjaysYoutube]

Great review, love how you make things fun and also interesting Nicola, again in terms that almost of us would understand. Always highlighting the things that are actually important in day to day ownership and driving rather than how fast things go between traffic lights. I love the outside design of the Z4 however I agree inside is a let down really. The Boxter really gives you a thrill to drive and look at parked in your drive. For folks comparing Nicola to Matt, I have to say I think Nicola is actually has her own style and a better presenter, sadly Matt no longer does many everyday car reviews instead it's now mostly high end or performance reviews (only mostly I said) also too many links and adverts to other videos and gimics now in the way that those videos are presented.

[keith]

the only reason to buy a boxster instead of an m40i would be that the z4 is not a porsche. Everything your eyes can see, your ears can hear and your hands can feel is better in the z4. I would even go as far as saying that the boxster looks and feels dated, dull and boring in comparison.

[paultaylor]

Lovely Jubbly, you're so funny but still give a review which most people would find helpful.

[JackKing]

Why is Nicola using the turn signal on a test track? Looks pretty quiet 😁

[anshsharma]

Gonna get this in my garage real soon. 🤞

[lavery]

Hmmm, have my eye on this Roadster, M version would be a must, moreso on the highways than in town.

[paulagostinho]

Great review! Truly informative and engaging! Very very very good!👍

[robsmitha]

I've hit an age where ultimate handling and performance doesn't really matter that much to me but I like open air motoring. The hard top therefore suited me perfectly and I'm not likely to buy a car with a fabric roof (I have an SLK and the glass roof is great for those wet winter days). The MX-5 is probably a more fun choice because of it's small size but I'm 6'2" and don't really fit in them.