Overview
The 2012 BMW Z4 is a powerful, comfortable, and stylish vehicle, available in roadster and coupe body styles. The Z4, a two-seat roadster, comes with a retractable hardtop, available in either base sDrive30i or more powerful sDrive35i trim. The Z4 drives into 2012 mainly as a carryover model from 2011.
Power and performance
The RWD Z4 offers two engines -- one for each trim level. The base sDrive30i gets power a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter inline-6 rated at 255 hp and 220 pound-feet of torque. The sDrive35i receives BMW's twin-turbocharged inline-6 making 300 hp and 300 lb-ft of torque. A six-speed manual transmission is standard while a six-speed conventional automatic is optional on the sDrive30i, while the optional transmission for the sDrive35i is a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual.
The EPA fuel economy estimates range from 19 mpg city/28 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined for the sDrive30i (19/29/22 with the automatic) to 18/25/20 for the sDrive35i (17/24/20 with the automated manual).
Body and styling
The refined 2012 BMW Z4 roadster features fog lights; 17-inch light alloy wheels; heated windshield-washer jets; heated glass rear window; heated outside mirrors; heated front seats; cruise control; manual climate control with micro-filter ventilation; twin-tube gas-pressure shock absorbers; rain-sensing windshield wipers and automatic headlight control; 6-way manually adjustable sport seats; outside temperature display; leather upholstery; dual cup holders; leather-wrapped multi-function sport steering wheel; remote entry with multi-function remote control; auxiliary audio input adapter; four-function on-board computer; anti-theft AM/FM/CD audio system with radio data system, MP3 capabilities and 10 speakers; and pre-wiring for CD changer and alarm system.
The Z4 3.0si roadster and coupe trims add automatic climate control with active charcoal micro-filter ventilation and automatic recirculation control.
Safety Features
Tire pressure monitor system; four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes; dynamic stability control; all-season traction control; automatic safety-belt pre-tensioners; LATCH; dual-airbag supplementary restraint system; side-impact airbags; cornering brake control; disable switch for passenger's side airbag with indicator light; and active knee protection are some of the standard safety features available on the 2012 BMW Z4.
