BMW Z4 sDrive 23i (2009) CAR review

BMW's new twin-turbo sDrive35i Z4 has garnered all of the headlines so far, but how does the Z4 at the other end of the price spectrum deliver? BMW claims there are no current plans for a four-cylinder version of the new Z4, so for now this 204bhp 23i version is the entry-level roadster. Read on to find out if it's any good.

Z4 sDrive23i? Looks like the password to my online bank account.

Yes, it’s a stupid name, but the important bit is the 23 suffix, which signifies the engine under that long bonnet. But in typical BMW style the 23 is misleading and the naturally aspirated straight-six actually displaces not 2.3 litres but 2.5, enough for 204bhp.

No turbos, just 204bhp! I’m losing interest.

Hang on, this is a BMW engine we’re talking about. The 23i makes up in smoothness and economy (33mpg) what it lacks in punch, and anyway it feels amply quick from the driving seat. Sixty rocks up in 6.6sec and the top speed is only 4mph short of requiring an electronic limiter. The bigger engines go fast for less effort but you can rag the 23i harder because you need to which gets you more involved in the drive.

Involved? That wasn’t a word you used in the 35i review, except maybe preceded by ‘un’.

If you’re looking for Boxster-style engagement, you won’t find it here. The Z4 feels more like a really well sorted saloon than a sports car. The steering is meaty and accurate but rather dead, the handling is nose led and washes out into understeer at the limit without even a suggestion that you might want to drive it on the throttle.

>> Click 'Next' below to read more of our BMW Z4 sDrive 23i first drive