The final handling frontier is that of braking. The Z4 3.0si is remarkably skilled and efficient at eliminating speed. No fanfare and no theatrics- just brutal easily modulated braking power. Again, confidence inspiring.

Comfort covered and uncovered
The outstanding handling ability of the Z4 comes at a price. Two things of note here: 1. Ride quality can be abrupt and choppy. 2. Tire ruts can play havoc with steering. Overall, the Z4's ride is not untoward or any less forgiving than other roadsters placing an emphasis on handling. It's the tire rut issue that's more of a bugaboo for me.

Classy look and good ergonomics.

Care must be taken when driving on rutted pavement. The Z4 3.0si's 18-in X 8-in front and rear performance rubber like to misbehave when tracking heavily grooved pavement, making it wise to firmly affix two hands to the steering wheel.

My tester was equipped with a Premium option package that included a wind deflector screen that could be placed between the two headrests. When in place, the Z4 can be driven at highway speeds and above with very little turbulence or buffeting to interfere with conversation or hair positioning while the power operated soft-top roof is retracted.

The final word of Z4 3.0si praise goes to the optional M-Sport Seats that held me upright throughout the week. BMW makes great seats- what else can I say. The Z4 3.0si is a tremendously satisfying roadster, albeit costly. $60,900 for starters and $66,600 as tested.


True roadster character
Potent new engine
Precise yet forgiving handling



Steering tends to "ride the ruts"
Ride typical of roadsters



Rain


Photo Credit : Rob Rothwell