Best Car Reviews - 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i

Introduction

The 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i emerges as a striking blend of elegance and power, designed for those who prioritize performance without compromising on style. Released in 2012, this model marked a significant evolution in BMW's line-up of luxury convertibles. Catering predominantly to driving enthusiasts and luxury seekers, the Z4 sDrive28i stands out due to its exceptional build quality, striking design, and performance capabilities. It's a car that effortlessly captures attention and delivers an exhilarating driving experience.

Design and Exterior Features

The 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is a marvel of automotive design. Its silhouette is both sleek and muscular, characteristic of BMW’s trademark aesthetic.

Distinctive front fascia with BMW’s iconic kidney grille
Long nose and short overhangs, enhancing its sporty appeal
Retractable hardtop roof, offering the versatility of a coupe and the open-air exhilaration of a roadster
Aerodynamic lines that serve both form and function

The Z4 incorporates subtle yet impactful refinements from its predecessors, making it a standout in its class.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Z4 sDrive28i maintains the luxury and sophistication expected from BMW. With high-quality materials, the cabin feels plush and inviting.

Premium leather upholstery and high-grade plastics
Ergonomic seating position with ample legroom for a roadster
Advanced climate control system for personalized comfort
A meticulous cabin layout that ensures all controls are within easy reach

Luxury features abound, ensuring that every drive, whether short or long, is a joy.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the BMW Z4 sDrive28i is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder SIDI engine, delivering robust performance:

Engine specs: 2.0-liter 4-cylinder, 240 horsepower
0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds
Fuel consumption: Approximately 11.4 l/100 km

On city streets or open highways, the Z4 sDrive28i provides a thrilling ride with its superb handling and responsive steering. Rear-wheel drive enhances agility, allowing for precision in taking corners and maintaining stability at high speeds.

Precision steering and balanced chassis design
Effortless cruising capability at highway speeds
Dynamic acceleration in urban settings

Technology and Connectivity

BMW has equipped the 2012 Z4 sDrive28i with a suite of modern technologies to enhance the driving experience.

Infotainment system with a 9.7-inch display
Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free communication
iDrive interface, intuitive and user-friendly

Noteworthy tech features include:

Advanced navigation system
High-quality sound system
Driver assistance technologies, including parking sensors

Safety Features

Safety does not take a backseat in the Z4 sDrive28i. It comes with an array of standard and advanced safety features:

Multiple airbags ensuring occupant protection
Electronic stability control aiding in difficult driving conditions
High crash test ratings from safety authorities

Additional features include:

Anti-lock brakes and traction control
Side-impact door beams

Pricing and Variants

The 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i starts at approximately $47,000 USD. In comparison to competitors, it offers more performance and luxury for its price point, yet remains competitive with models from Porsche and Audi. It encapsulates a fine balance of performance and price, making it an attractive option in the luxury roadster segment.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Exhilarating performance
High-quality interior materials
Versatile hardtop convertible
Precise and responsive handling
Iconic BMW design

Cons

Limited trunk space
Higher fuel consumption compared to some rivals
Premium gasoline requirement
Restricted rear visibility with the top up
Higher initial cost than some competitors

Maintenance and Common Issues

Annual maintenance costs for the BMW Z4 sDrive28i can be relatively high, given its luxury status. However, owners frequently report high satisfaction with reliability.

Common issues include:

Electrical system malfunctions
Roof mechanism failures
Turbocharger problems
Cooling system leaks
Engine oil leaks

Rating

Overall, the 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i scores an impressive 8.5 out of 10.

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 8/10
Performance: 9/10
Technology: 8/10
Safety: 8.5/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The handling and acceleration leave nothing to be desired."
"A bit tight in trunk space, but the drive makes up for it."
"Love the hardtop convertible feature; transforms the car."
"Maintenance can be expensive, but worth it for such a ride."
"Fuel efficiency isn’t the best, but the performance is top-notch."

Common praises highlight the car's exhilarating drive and stylish design, whereas criticisms mainly revolve around practical concerns like trunk space and fuel efficiency.

Best cars in this category

2012 Porsche Boxster
2012 Audi TT Roadster
2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class
2012 Nissan 370Z Roadster
2012 Chevrolet Corvette

Summary

The 2012 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is ideal for driving enthusiasts seeking a luxurious yet sporty driving experience. It combines the prestige of the BMW brand with the thrill of a top-down roadster, making it a compelling choice in its segment. While it may not be perfect for those seeking practicality, its stylish design and robust performance make it a standout for anyone prioritizing glamour and exhilaration in their everyday drives.