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I bought the 30i, I pick it up on Friday....fantastic car... never thought that this would be my next car..But after driving it, I am absolutely convinced.....really good engine even though it is not the 6 cylinder..
I just bought a low mileage 2020. The 4 banger is very fast for real world driving. Like VERY fast. Not wishing I had the B58 engine at all. The 30i is perfect.
Dr Taran here from Malacca Malaysia. I just purchased the Sdrive 30i . First up , a very splendid ride. I think the engineers did a brilliant job churning out 258 bhp and 450 Nm of torque from a 4 cylinder engine . Here in Malaysia we do not have the Autobahn so I guess a need for the M40i is virtually lost . What struck me the most was that the engine notes and the torque pull was very very powerful to the point that I do not dare to push the car beyond 1.0 bar of turbo . Its a lethal weapon indeed . To all those reading , hands down the S-drive 30i is the one to go for ...for " normal " practical driving and for those who want the occasional speed thrill that this car is literally begging for all the time . By the way I love your reviews, I think its wholesome complete crisp and to the point . Plus the German accent adds a touch of finesse to your reviews. Cheers
I had an X3 M40I so I know that engine and it's seriously powerful. Just bought a very low mileage Z4 S30i and I'm very happy with the 4 cylinder. In sport Plus mode, it's very responsive and crazy fun to drive. In "real world" driving, it's damn near perfect.
I currently own a '23 x3 M40i so I too am well acquainted with the B58 6 cylinder engine. Previously I've had two Miatas and as Thomas said, lighter weigh does make a difference in the handling and "fun to drive" aspects of the roadster ownership experience. I also have owned a 230i xDrive with the B48 4 cylinder engine. In that application, the four cylinder was fine and plenty powerful; even for occasional autocross and track day driving. For me then, I'd agree with Thomas...go for the B48 4 cylinder engine and at least here in the U.S., spec the "Dynamic Handling" package so you have the same suspension and limited slip rear differential as the M40 but benefit by the lower cost and lighter weight.
Thomas, thank you for showing what access is like with the roof up. Anybody can comfortably get into a soft-top with the roof down, and enjoy sufficient head room, but most reviewers ignore the fact that 95% of the time, the roof will be raised. I love the fact that you always look into the practicalities of a car, even when it's a "lifestyle" vehicle. This channel consistently produces the best reviews on RUclips, well done.
Autogefühl I felt the handling was sharper in the 30 and the 20. When I hopped in the 40 just that weight felt enormous over the front of the car. Sure the sound of the 6 cylinder was creamy and the power delivery was more linear but the heft was enough to put me off. The 20 handled well and it was surprising. In a way like in the MX5 proving you can have fun with a smaller displacement. But once I tried the 30 overnight I knew it was the sweet spot. I preferred a little more power and the weigh and balance for me was great. I also loved the seat. My back didn’t tire and the tech was amazing. I just wish Mercedes updated the SLC to be similarly modern.
@@autogefuehl Thomas....have been re-watching your comparison z4 reviews comparing the s30i and M40i versions. From the video, it appears the S30i had the optional Dynamic Handling package (with LTD Slip Diff, suspension tuning and M-Sport brakes). Can you confirm that please? No (legal!) "autobahn" here in the U.S. but I want all the handling capabilities available in S30i. If your test S30i had that package...your comparison comments between the S30i and M40i really boil down to lighter, more nimble handling of the S30i vrs outright speed, sportier exhaust, heavier front end and more $$$ of the M40i. Sounds like the S30i with the Dynamic Handling package is the sweet spot for me. Currently driving a MINI Roadster S and previously, two Miatas so lightweight has its advantages!. Vielen Dank!
Hi, this and the Z4 M40i are great reviews. I currently have an M240i and was looking to buy a Z4. I didn't think I could live with anything less than the 40i but watching the two videos, I have just ordered a 30i. I took a 30i for a test drive and was amazed - for 'normal' life, it offers everything I need and the driving experience is just as good as my M240i - in many ways better with the lower driving position. The Z4 turns into corners so well so you don't need as much speed. And I live in the UK - no autobahns :( so the point of the 40i is largely lost. Thanks again for the superb videos, they were really, really helpful.
@ So I had the M240i and then the Z4 30i. After 3 yrs I bought the same car but M40i engine. I missed the bigger engine too much. No regrets. 2 weeks cruising in France with my wife this summer. Demolished the autoroutes; danced round the B roads. Perfect in every way. Did not notice the extra weight over the 30i at all. Jag F type is great car - looks / engine. More of a GT. Z4 is livelier but can do the GT thing too. Both great cars, trust your gut. Either way you won’t be wrong. Enjoy while you can…
@@alasdairstuart3394 nice thx! I might test drive both and then decide. The M240 just puts a smile on my face every time. Can't imagine the feeling with a convertible 😍
Thanks for your review. You’ve sold me on the 3.0 . The option for a test drive right now is nil, so I appreciate your taking one for all of us. Be safe and thanks again. -Tom
I have loved, and I mean really LOVED, the reviews of Thomas here on AutoGefuhl for several years now, and I am still not disappointed. Thomas is the perfect presenter and carguy, IMHO: he takes the time to show and explain the viewers every aspect of the car and he is informative, entertaining and the content is always very captivating. Even when he is reviewing small, boring cars, Thomas still makes it interesting and informative, so you know all the essentials of even boring, inexpensive cars.
Great choice. One thing you hopefully won't have to think about is repairs, but in the event that you do, you'll probably notice that the 4 cyl is so much smaller than the engine bay that the z4 is probably the only modern BMW that mechanics won't hate to work on. You can fit a small child in the space between the engine and the radiator.
@@aka_pierre this is very true. Now, I'm looking at getting the defender for the family and light off-roading. After driving the two engines, 4 and 6 petrol, I feel the 4 is more than adequate. It's surprising how these can pack so much punch! Way better power to weight ratio.
@@papahumza look into the Bronco or the Wrangler before you make up your mind. I wasn't impressed with the Defender. It's the car to get if you have only one car, but if it's a second or third it doesn't make as much sense. I have a Wrangler and being able to take the top and doors off is really nice. They're also coming out with a version with a pushrod V8.
@@aka_pierre wasn't too impressed with the bronco. I like the wranglers, but waiting for their new design to come out. The v8 would be something! Wrangler or the Defender..
@@papahumza let me know which one you end up getting! For me the manual wrangler was just peace of mind since no one is going to be able to steal it even if the doors are off.
I drove Z3 models for almost twenty years, most recently the 3.0i on many trips to the south of Europe (Italy, Croatia, Corsica), where narrow winding mountain, country and coastal roads are the ideal terrain for a roadster. A few years ago, I bought a second-hand i8 Coupe and also had a lot of fun with it. But now I wanted to go back to a convertible and thought long and hard about whether it should be a used i8 Roadster or the new Z4. What I didn't want was a car that makes a lot of noise and consumes a lot of petrol. Because I drive electrically in everyday life and therefore have different requirements. I'm also older now and comfortable seating has become more important. This test by Thomas, which was super competent as always, convinced me that the Z4 is the right car for me. Sporty, agile, comfortable and economical at the same time. Beautiful design, but not too exotic and flashy. The test criteria and statements were really helpful. What I also always find very cool is Thomas' special attention to safe and decent behaviour when driving. Professional in every respect.
Nice vid! I took delivery of my 30! a few weeks back. I tested both the M40i and the 30! The M40 engine is gem, but so is the 30! Eventually the 150kg weight difference made me choose the 30! The M40 had quite some understeer in comparison to the 30! Since I got the Zed primarily for fast mountain passes I opted for the lighter car while still having that amazing 4cyl engine!
Picked up a news drive 30i one month ago. My previous cars were an '04 C5 Vette, a '13 135i, a '15 TTS, and a '16 S5 cabriolet. the Z4 is *easily* the most fun of them all! Seriously. It out-handles the Vette, and crushes the two audis in the 0-60. The only one faster (and only fractionally so) was the 135i. This car doesn't feel like a lifeless 4 banger, as did the TTS. (That car was quick but lacked excitement.). The Z4 strive 30i just feels fast, handles exceptionally well, and has the "wow factor" that only the Vette had ('plastic fantastic'!). BMW has outdone themselves with this one!
And I must say, although I love this Z4, I really do prefer the previous model, the E89 with the hard-top. I own a 2016 sapphire-black metallic with red leather interior, M-Sport, with all available options and sofar I have only 37000 km. I also owned a Porsche Boxster until recently and although I understand the obsession of people with Porsches (they are really magnificent), I did not like my boxster more than I like my Z4. The Z4 is a magnificent car to look at, it has a much more exclusive interior than the Boxster (which I rated as quite spartan) and it drives sporty enough for me, while also being a great Grand Tourer at the same time.
Great video, thanks! I'm a Z4 s30i owner myself, and I love it! The 258 hp 4-cylinder is plenty for me, don't need the 6-cylinder; it's a blast to drive.
I just got my M40i a week ago. Never drove the i30 or m40 so wouldn't know how they compare. The 4 cylinder probably would have been plenty in the U.S. but I simply had to go with the more powerful engine. I admit, it's a bit frightening when I put it in Sport Plus mode but I believe I will get used to it in time. Super luxurious sports car!
Thomas thanks for this great summer ride! Definitely after this video would go for the 4cyl..it's just the logical choice! Looking forward when you put the Supra against the Z4. A "BMW " showdown.
I’m a big fan of BMW 6 cylinder engines. Got to admit in this case it may be a tougher one to call. This 2 litre sounds good and if it’s as smooth as you say and with the weight saving and maybe better handling, then the 4 cylinder sounds a good choice and certainly the logical one. It would be plenty fast enough on modern roads with all our speed cameras etc. It would be interesting to compare with the 20i too; both 2 litre, both 4 cylinder. The B58 3 litre in-line six though is just so smooth and sounds so good that maybe I would pay the extra anyway. A six is just more special, more of an event. Fuel consumption will be slightly worse, but only slightly I suspect. My M240i will do 40 to 42mpg or 6.6 litres per 100km on the motorway here in the UK, so that’s at 70mph or 110km/h. Buying a roadster is not logical anyway, so maybe the M40i, if you can afford it, would be the one!
This review is by far the most informative and best presented that i have seen for a long time....thank you Thomas. Personally i would choose the M30 over the M40.
Nice video Thomas!! 👌🏼 I really like this brand new z4, I would prefer the 4-cylinder engine, the 30i, because it is lighter and I can save some fuel. Congrats for your reviews!
I love the design of the new Z4 but I think that the only version worth spending money on is the M40i, with the Inline-6. The rest of the versions make the Z4 seem like an expensive MX5. The Inline-6 engine is something getting more and more rare these days, since we are awash in 4-cylinder engines, and I think that it would be a shame not to choose this engine!
Thomas, you did also in this review a perfect job. You said it, it depends on the budget 😉 First I would buy the new Mazda Mx-5 rf but it is to small and now I decided for the new BMW Z4 20i. I have to pay 20 k € more but it's a big different. And in amount I have to pay 60k €. But for this money I will get all what I want after my BMW Z3. Of course if money don't play a role I would buy the M40i but if I'm honest it is to much money for a car in my opinion. Next week I'm going to order the M Sport Model in silver with black with all extra packages and an "adaptive Fahrwerk". Thank you for your amazing reviews they helped me to take my decision.
@@autogefuehl I don't like this Alcantara seats from Z4 G29 in my opinion they don't make sense with Alcantara not in the middle of the seat. What do you mean with "or sensational seats"? I decided for seats in black leder.
If I would want a cruiser I would get the 20i because that´s already enough power for this purpose. If I rather want a "sportscar" experience I would directly get the M40i mainly because of the sound. The 30i sits in a somewhat strange middleground in my opinion. Not as emotional as the M40i and for daily use the 20i already is enough.
Vielen Dank! Nächstes Projekt: Kia ProCeed mit der kleinsten Motorisierung - auch wenn es dort schon der 1.4 Benziner, der dort den Einstieg markiert :)
I currently own a 2016 ND 6 speed manual Mazda MX5. I took one of these for a weekend test drive recently and very taken with it. He's right about the MX5 as a pure roadster, but this vehicle holds its own. Mind you, in Australia there's no where you can truly drive one of these vehicles properly to truly experience the acceleration he mentions unless it's on the track. Still, I'm considering buying one!!!
The baby 2.0i is perfect. Good mpg in eco mode, I can get over 50mpg on a run. Even town driving I average over 42mpg. Sport plus mode is still good enough for spirited driving and 0 - 60 in a little over 6.5 seconds. Comfortable and the boot is big enough for my golf clubs. Great little car
Hey Thomas, thanks for this video (and also all the others 😉). I currently have a MX5 RF 2.0, and I love it. Although, since I’m a single car guy, I’m feeling a bit of a problem making some longer trips with it. I like the new Z4, but I’m not so sure I would be as happy as I am with the MX5. I’ve already driven the Z4 20i, and it feels much heavier (of course!) and less reactive. What do you think?
As a previous two time MX-5 owner ('99 & '08), I agree with your assessment. The MX-5 is light and more nimble, less powerful, but totally enjoyable attacking a corner while still remaining at/under the speed limit...legal Freude am Fahren as BMW would say. Where the enhanced performance, build quality, greater mass(solidity) and amenities pay off for the Z4 is in long distance cruising..where the engines not spinning at nearly 4k at highway speeds, bouncing a bit with heavy wind buffeting/roar. At the end of a long distance MX-5 cruise, albeit fun, you're wiped out from engine and wind noise...not nearly the case with the Z4.
I'd chose the 30i especially if there is 150kg weight difference to the 40i! I drive a 230i coupé, same engine range there with the 220i, 230i and 240i. (B48 with two different tunes and the B58).
Great in-depth review as per usual, keep up the good work and I too love your English with a German accent. My 435d convertible will be returned in November and this is on the shortlist to replace it, the problem I’ve found is the extras by pack philosophy we have here. I like the look of the 30i Sport but want the adaptive suspension and the better brakes but you can only get those with the MSport plus pack. It’s either that or a used SL400
loving your videos from S.Korea! I definitely have this in my options for my next vehicle, but it is so sad that we only get 20i and not 30i. Any suggestions between z4 20i or a used 718 boxter?
Interesting video, Thomas, I think if I would order this car I would pay the extra money to have a 6 cylinder. But the 30 i is of course powerful enough also. A good option of course is the Toyota Supra where you have no choice of engines,
Wow s30i is 68000 euro and M40i is 75000 euro, after I looked on the Z4 brochure in Thailand s30i is 3,999,000 baht ( 115,000 euro ), M40i is 4,999,000 (145,000 euro). We can buy 911GTS in euro the same price of M40i. LOLLL Great review !
Hi Tomas/ team love the reviews . Do you think you could press on the dash and inlays and plastics a bit more during interior reviews to see if they make noise. If the build quality is good it should not make noise ???
Thomas, great review as usual! Interesting point on stop start...agree it is probably bad for the engine and doesn’t save fuel, but what about the reduction in emissions in town? Have you tested that? Thanks!
So Thomas your edict of "no replacement for displacement" , (mine too) doesn’t apply totally to the Z4? I think you’re right another great review by the way. That really goes without saying tbh. Keep up the good work. I always like and retweet your tweets from both channels.
A very adult intelligent review, thank you. I see this car from the view of the fact I have a 2000 Z-3 so I will share my opinion. The styling looks too much like every other roadster. The fake front side scoops are only bug collectors. Comfort and quality is the biggest plus of this car. The 4 cylinder is fast and powerful enough for any intelligent sports car enthusiast. I would prefer standard hydraulic rack and pinion sports car steering. For me I'd loose all of the touch screen nonsense and get back to a real man's machine. Real gauges, nothing digital. I think many adult people would appreciate a real solid sports vehicle by BMW in the solid style of the Z-3. Also with a distinct style and design as the Z-3 was in its day. Thank you again for the most complete and informative review.
and many would disagree. Admittedly subjective, the Z3 looks dated, and this comes from a guy who owned and loved (still loves) an early '70s MGB. The reality (that I'm admittedly sometimes reluctant to accept) is that they'll NEVER be able to build them like they used to because of increased government regulations. I do like your plain and simple style though.
Well but you need to take into account that there are always situations where you accelerate harder after using it since u are catching up to traffic. You cannot measure this effect. Plus it destroys the engine long term
@@autogefuehl newer systems are connected to the assistance systems, so the engine is already running when you have the chance to accelerate in stoplights or traffic, and won't stop at all in junctions and roundabouts (I'll give you that point on more "reactive" systems, but adding that it's still driver dependent)
@@joaoferraz66 I mean that even if you see the traffic light directly, you will start accelerating again 1 second less. And in many situations, people use more throttle then instead when they would be starting to accelerate 1 second before. Also, I talked to engineers who cut open engines literally after test runs for hundreds of thousands of kilometres, and they told me that those system would be bad for the engine (they can find deposits of unburned stuff in the engine plus long start-stop-situations apply a lot of pressure to the system, I figured they should probably know. I am happy to find out otherwise if there are better systems on the market that dont do that.
@@autogefuehl I was assuming the driving style wouldn't be affected by the activation, or not, of the start-stop system. In the scenario you just described it might be harmfull, I agree. Regarding engine damage, I was also thinking about a "smarter" system, that reads engine conditions to decide on activation and have stronger starter engines (mild hybrids come to mind). The damage you talk about can also be found on engines that do smaller journeys, so the problem might lie somewhere in between... But it seems we have different views on the subject, no point going back and forth. Agree to disagree?
In HK, only 20i or 40i are available and the price difference is USD20K. However, in 40i, you get e-diff, adaptive suspension, 19-inch wheel more along with the inline-6 engine. However, I still would opt for 20i as I treat it as my daily and the petrol is very experience, USD2.23/Litre. Also, reading the review from FB/youtube, the 40i is nose heavy which is no good for handling. With 20i, it comes with basic spec, lighter car and I guess I could chip it to similar power of 30i. Don't know if this is logical?
Very good question about 6 v 4 cylinders Thomas. I drive in Europe including German autobahns as well as countries, where although speed limits are imposed, they are not rigouristically obeyed. My observation tells me that in general Europeans drive much faster than Americans with cars having much less power. Therefore I have been always wondering why Americans put so much focus on power, which they do not use, frankly. Many US car reviewers say about 2.0 ~250hp 4cylinder powered European midsize cars that they are underpowered. Everytime I hear this I ask myself underpowered for what? 250hp is enough for any driving situation, including fast motorway blasts as well as overtaking. Sure, 6 cylinders are always better than 4 but they are so much more expensive to run. I am talking about additional taxes (excise, eco, etc - depending on country) you have to pay to enjoy 6 cylinder. In the place where I live, the price difference between well optioned 4 and 6 cyl Z4 is more than 25k Euros due to taxes.
Have you seen an average US family? With both parents having 100-130+ kg each, with two of their children of slightly less weight, with a full boot of groceries bought in bulk because they have to drive multiple km to get to the store. Each maneuver, even the parking would require gas flooring or kick down with a 2L engine.
hi Thomas, I just got my 20i MANUAL and it doesn't have the same exhaust sound as this 30i you reviewed here, though they are the same engine. Is that because it's a manual, or is it because I have to rev it real hard? To be honest the manual is not that great, I prefer auto, but this one's at 15% discount, clearly nobody wanted it, and if I go for auto, I need to wait for 6 months, thereby missing the autumn convertible season. Hence I have this 20i manual M!
Buenas tardes Thomas, lo primero felicitarte por el canal. Qué opinas del Z4 g29 20i de 197 caballos? Hay mucha diferencia con respecto al 30i? Muchas gracias un saludo
►Compare the review of the Z4 M40i: ruclips.net/video/eQLtii-Qh4Y/видео.html ►Compare the Toyota Supra: ruclips.net/video/QG-vP1ztUlU/видео.html ►BMW Z3 heritage footage: ruclips.net/video/qeshzVlIyWk/видео.html
Hello Thomas. My name is Karthik from Bangalore, India. I really love watching your show and reviews. I need a clarification from you. Modern cars and scooter nowadays have automatic engine turning off when vehicle comes to a halt. And automatically again swtiches on once the vehicle is ready to roll. Does this actually save fuel or does more damage to the engine in the long run. Please suggest
Cheers! It damages the engine in the long run, especially when the function works for a longer time (long red traffic light situation e.g.). It does save fuel in the moment where the engine is not running, however it quite often happens that you for example start the engine again, then you are a second late, and then you accelerate harder again to catch up to the second you lost at starting at the traffic light. So imho it saves fuel on paper, but it doesnt save real fuel in the consumer's life.
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I bought the 30i, I pick it up on Friday....fantastic car... never thought that this would be my next car..But after driving it, I am absolutely convinced.....really good engine even though it is not the 6 cylinder..
How is it, still like it?
I just bought a low mileage 2020. The 4 banger is very fast for real world driving. Like VERY fast. Not wishing I had the B58 engine at all. The 30i is perfect.
@@TheG60528XiJinPing Looks like he/she doesn't want to discuss it lol
Dr Taran here from Malacca Malaysia. I just purchased the Sdrive 30i . First up , a very splendid ride. I think the engineers did a brilliant job churning out 258 bhp and 450 Nm of torque from a 4 cylinder engine . Here in Malaysia we do not have the Autobahn so I guess a need for the M40i is virtually lost . What struck me the most was that the engine notes and the torque pull was very very powerful to the point that I do not dare to push the car beyond 1.0 bar of turbo . Its a lethal weapon indeed . To all those reading , hands down the S-drive 30i is the one to go for ...for " normal " practical driving and for those who want the occasional speed thrill that this car is literally begging for all the time . By the way I love your reviews, I think its wholesome complete crisp and to the point . Plus the German accent adds a touch of finesse to your reviews. Cheers
A great and classy comment. Thanks, Dr Taran. This is the best European reviewer indeed.
Yeah the price is not outrageous too, definitely getting this car in a decade if it’s cheap
I had an X3 M40I so I know that engine and it's seriously powerful. Just bought a very low mileage Z4 S30i and I'm very happy with the 4 cylinder. In sport Plus mode, it's very responsive and crazy fun to drive. In "real world" driving, it's damn near perfect.
I currently own a '23 x3 M40i so I too am well acquainted with the B58 6 cylinder engine. Previously I've had two Miatas and as Thomas said, lighter weigh does make a difference in the handling and "fun to drive" aspects of the roadster ownership experience. I also have owned a 230i xDrive with the B48 4 cylinder engine. In that application, the four cylinder was fine and plenty powerful; even for occasional autocross and track day driving.
For me then, I'd agree with Thomas...go for the B48 4 cylinder engine and at least here in the U.S., spec the "Dynamic Handling" package so you have the same suspension and limited slip rear differential as the M40 but benefit by the lower cost and lighter weight.
Thomas, thank you for showing what access is like with the roof up. Anybody can comfortably get into a soft-top with the roof down, and enjoy sufficient head room, but most reviewers ignore the fact that 95% of the time, the roof will be raised. I love the fact that you always look into the practicalities of a car, even when it's a "lifestyle" vehicle. This channel consistently produces the best reviews on RUclips, well done.
👍👍👍
I test drove all models, the 20, the 30 and the 40 and i preferred the 30 out of the lot. Happy to watch your review.
Interesting michael!! Did u also feel the 30i has better handling due to lighter front? How did u rate the difference 20i vs 30i?
Autogefühl I felt the handling was sharper in the 30 and the 20. When I hopped in the 40 just that weight felt enormous over the front of the car. Sure the sound of the 6 cylinder was creamy and the power delivery was more linear but the heft was enough to put me off.
The 20 handled well and it was surprising. In a way like in the MX5 proving you can have fun with a smaller displacement.
But once I tried the 30 overnight I knew it was the sweet spot. I preferred a little more power and the weigh and balance for me was great.
I also loved the seat. My back didn’t tire and the tech was amazing.
I just wish Mercedes updated the SLC to be similarly modern.
@@michaelh4484 well said, agree!
@@autogefuehl Thomas....have been re-watching your comparison z4 reviews comparing the s30i and M40i versions. From the video, it appears the S30i had the optional Dynamic Handling package (with LTD Slip Diff, suspension tuning and M-Sport brakes). Can you confirm that please? No (legal!) "autobahn" here in the U.S. but I want all the handling capabilities available in S30i. If your test S30i had that package...your comparison comments between the S30i and M40i really boil down to lighter, more nimble handling of the S30i vrs outright speed, sportier exhaust, heavier front end and more $$$ of the M40i. Sounds like the S30i with the Dynamic Handling package is the sweet spot for me. Currently driving a MINI Roadster S and previously, two Miatas so lightweight has its advantages!. Vielen Dank!
I believe the 4-cylinder is perfectly fine for normal driving in the USA.
With surprising fuel economy as well
Perfect car for the beautiful weather and great review as ever - full screen, full HD & full length - let's go!
enjoy =)
Hi, this and the Z4 M40i are great reviews. I currently have an M240i and was looking to buy a Z4. I didn't think I could live with anything less than the 40i but watching the two videos, I have just ordered a 30i. I took a 30i for a test drive and was amazed - for 'normal' life, it offers everything I need and the driving experience is just as good as my M240i - in many ways better with the lower driving position. The Z4 turns into corners so well so you don't need as much speed. And I live in the UK - no autobahns :( so the point of the 40i is largely lost. Thanks again for the superb videos, they were really, really helpful.
Well said! Enjoy 😊
Still happy with it? I also have a M240i and I consider getting a Z4 or an Jaguar F-Type
@ So I had the M240i and then the Z4 30i. After 3 yrs I bought the same car but M40i engine. I missed the bigger engine too much. No regrets. 2 weeks cruising in France with my wife this summer. Demolished the autoroutes; danced round the B roads. Perfect in every way. Did not notice the extra weight over the 30i at all. Jag F type is great car - looks / engine. More of a GT. Z4 is livelier but can do the GT thing too. Both great cars, trust your gut. Either way you won’t be wrong. Enjoy while you can…
@@alasdairstuart3394 nice thx! I might test drive both and then decide. The M240 just puts a smile on my face every time. Can't imagine the feeling with a convertible 😍
Thanks for your review. You’ve sold me on the 3.0 . The option for a test drive right now is nil, so I appreciate your taking one for all of us. Be safe and thanks again. -Tom
I have loved, and I mean really LOVED, the reviews of Thomas here on AutoGefuhl for several years now, and I am still not disappointed. Thomas is the perfect presenter and carguy, IMHO: he takes the time to show and explain the viewers every aspect of the car and he is informative, entertaining and the content is always very captivating. Even when he is reviewing small, boring cars, Thomas still makes it interesting and informative, so you know all the essentials of even boring, inexpensive cars.
Highly appreciated! Feel free to recommend 😎
Ended up with the four cylinder. Quite happy with this one as the additional power and visceral feel of the six is not on par with the cost
Great choice. One thing you hopefully won't have to think about is repairs, but in the event that you do, you'll probably notice that the 4 cyl is so much smaller than the engine bay that the z4 is probably the only modern BMW that mechanics won't hate to work on. You can fit a small child in the space between the engine and the radiator.
@@aka_pierre this is very true. Now, I'm looking at getting the defender for the family and light off-roading. After driving the two engines, 4 and 6 petrol, I feel the 4 is more than adequate. It's surprising how these can pack so much punch! Way better power to weight ratio.
@@papahumza look into the Bronco or the Wrangler before you make up your mind. I wasn't impressed with the Defender. It's the car to get if you have only one car, but if it's a second or third it doesn't make as much sense. I have a Wrangler and being able to take the top and doors off is really nice. They're also coming out with a version with a pushrod V8.
@@aka_pierre wasn't too impressed with the bronco. I like the wranglers, but waiting for their new design to come out. The v8 would be something! Wrangler or the Defender..
@@papahumza let me know which one you end up getting! For me the manual wrangler was just peace of mind since no one is going to be able to steal it even if the doors are off.
I drove Z3 models for almost twenty years, most recently the 3.0i on many trips to the south of Europe (Italy, Croatia, Corsica), where narrow winding mountain, country and coastal roads are the ideal terrain for a roadster.
A few years ago, I bought a second-hand i8 Coupe and also had a lot of fun with it. But now I wanted to go back to a convertible and thought long and hard about whether it should be a used i8 Roadster or the new Z4. What I didn't want was a car that makes a lot of noise and consumes a lot of petrol. Because I drive electrically in everyday life and therefore have different requirements. I'm also older now and comfortable seating has become more important.
This test by Thomas, which was super competent as always, convinced me that the Z4 is the right car for me. Sporty, agile, comfortable and economical at the same time. Beautiful design, but not too exotic and flashy. The test criteria and statements were really helpful.
What I also always find very cool is Thomas' special attention to safe and decent behaviour when driving.
Professional in every respect.
Nice vid! I took delivery of my 30! a few weeks back. I tested both the M40i and the 30! The M40 engine is gem, but so is the 30! Eventually the 150kg weight difference made me choose the 30! The M40 had quite some understeer in comparison to the 30! Since I got the Zed primarily for fast mountain passes I opted for the lighter car while still having that amazing 4cyl engine!
Enjoy 😊
Picked up a news drive 30i one month ago. My previous cars were an '04 C5 Vette, a '13 135i, a '15 TTS, and a '16 S5 cabriolet. the Z4 is *easily* the most fun of them all! Seriously. It out-handles the Vette, and crushes the two audis in the 0-60. The only one faster (and only fractionally so) was the 135i. This car doesn't feel like a lifeless 4 banger, as did the TTS. (That car was quick but lacked excitement.). The Z4 strive 30i just feels fast, handles exceptionally well, and has the "wow factor" that only the Vette had ('plastic fantastic'!). BMW has outdone themselves with this one!
And I must say, although I love this Z4, I really do prefer the previous model, the E89 with the hard-top. I own a 2016 sapphire-black metallic with red leather interior, M-Sport, with all available options and sofar I have only 37000 km. I also owned a Porsche Boxster until recently and although I understand the obsession of people with Porsches (they are really magnificent), I did not like my boxster more than I like my Z4. The Z4 is a magnificent car to look at, it has a much more exclusive interior than the Boxster (which I rated as quite spartan) and it drives sporty enough for me, while also being a great Grand Tourer at the same time.
yes I also feel more comfortable in the Z4
Great video, thanks! I'm a Z4 s30i owner myself, and I love it! The 258 hp 4-cylinder is plenty for me, don't need the 6-cylinder; it's a blast to drive.
The 4 cylinder exhaust sounds fantastic.
I just got my M40i a week ago. Never drove the i30 or m40 so wouldn't know how they compare. The 4 cylinder probably would have been plenty in the U.S. but I simply had to go with the more powerful engine. I admit, it's a bit frightening when I put it in Sport Plus mode but I believe I will get used to it in time. Super luxurious sports car!
Thomas thanks for this great summer ride! Definitely after this video would go for the 4cyl..it's just the logical choice! Looking forward when you put the Supra against the Z4. A "BMW " showdown.
I’m a big fan of BMW 6 cylinder engines. Got to admit in this case it may be a tougher one to call. This 2 litre sounds good and if it’s as smooth as you say and with the weight saving and maybe better handling, then the 4 cylinder sounds a good choice and certainly the logical one. It would be plenty fast enough on modern roads with all our speed cameras etc. It would be interesting to compare with the 20i too; both 2 litre, both 4 cylinder. The B58 3 litre in-line six though is just so smooth and sounds so good that maybe I would pay the extra anyway. A six is just more special, more of an event. Fuel consumption will be slightly worse, but only slightly I suspect. My M240i will do 40 to 42mpg or 6.6 litres per 100km on the motorway here in the UK, so that’s at 70mph or 110km/h. Buying a roadster is not logical anyway, so maybe the M40i, if you can afford it, would be the one!
Good thoughts
I just bought my 2022 z4 and can’t wait to drive in it. I live in San Francisco so the city is gorgeous and this car would fit in so well!
This review is by far the most informative and best presented that i have seen for a long time....thank you Thomas. Personally i would choose the M30 over the M40.
Close the 400K subscribers.
Congratulations 🎉🎉🎉
Good job friends 👏👏👏
Perfect car for summer days!!
Nice video Thomas!! 👌🏼 I really like this brand new z4, I would prefer the 4-cylinder engine, the 30i, because it is lighter and I can save some fuel.
Congrats for your reviews!
Thanks 🙏
A very detailed and interesting review. The best I’ve seen.
welcome !
Excellent review. The best I’ve watched. I will be going for the Msport 3.0 next year 😎
🙏🙏🙏
I love the design of the new Z4 but I think that the only version worth spending money on is the M40i, with the Inline-6. The rest of the versions make the Z4 seem like an expensive MX5. The Inline-6 engine is something getting more and more rare these days, since we are awash in 4-cylinder engines, and I think that it would be a shame not to choose this engine!
Thomas, you did also in this review a perfect job. You said it, it depends on the budget 😉 First I would buy the new Mazda Mx-5 rf but it is to small and now I decided for the new BMW Z4 20i. I have to pay 20 k € more but it's a big different. And in amount I have to pay 60k €. But for this money I will get all what I want after my BMW Z3. Of course if money don't play a role I would buy the M40i but if I'm honest it is to much money for a car in my opinion. Next week I'm going to order the M Sport Model in silver with black with all extra packages and an "adaptive Fahrwerk". Thank you for your amazing reviews they helped me to take my decision.
Thanks and enjoy :) ask if u can get Alcantara or sensatec seats, would be interested to know what bmw say
@@autogefuehl I don't like this Alcantara seats from Z4 G29 in my opinion they don't make sense with Alcantara not in the middle of the seat. What do you mean with "or sensational seats"? I decided for seats in black leder.
Sorry autocorrect! I mean BMW Sensatec. Yes indeed why dont they put alcantara in the middle?!
This guy knows how to appreciate this car! Enjoyed the video
If I would want a cruiser I would get the 20i because that´s already enough power for this purpose. If I rather want a "sportscar" experience I would directly get the M40i mainly because of the sound. The 30i sits in a somewhat strange middleground in my opinion. Not as emotional as the M40i and for daily use the 20i already is enough.
I 100% agree
great review!
Thank you so much! Please recommend / share our channel and our videos 🙏
Finde es wie immer gut, dass Ihr nicht nur die "Top-Motorisierung" vorstellt!
Vielen Dank! Nächstes Projekt: Kia ProCeed mit der kleinsten Motorisierung - auch wenn es dort schon der 1.4 Benziner, der dort den Einstieg markiert :)
I currently own a 2016 ND 6 speed manual Mazda MX5. I took one of these for a weekend test drive recently and very taken with it. He's right about the MX5 as a pure roadster, but this vehicle holds its own. Mind you, in Australia there's no where you can truly drive one of these vehicles properly to truly experience the acceleration he mentions unless it's on the track. Still, I'm considering buying one!!!
Great reviews, herr Thomas!!
excellent review! very comprehensive!
Cheers !
Great vehicle and great review. Thank you for sharing.
20i manual -just pure fun
🤟
ottimo video! complimenti Thomas! bellissima rodaster 30i!!
🙏
Great review!! Thank you so much!! You always do the best and most COMPLETE reviews
👌👌👌👌
For bumpy roads, do you think is more comfortable with standard suspensions or with M adaptive suspensions set in comfort?
Both great cars for two different types of buyers/driver's. Awesome review as always, Thomas! Greetings from Fields BMW of Daytona Beach, Florida USA!
Thanks! Looking forward to the next Daytona Supercross :)
I love the car. It sounds pretty good for a 4 cyl too
Again good review, really enjoy all yours work.
Thanks !!
The baby 2.0i is perfect. Good mpg in eco mode, I can get over 50mpg on a run. Even town driving I average over 42mpg. Sport plus mode is still good enough for spirited driving and 0 - 60 in a little over 6.5 seconds. Comfortable and the boot is big enough for my golf clubs. Great little car
Thomas yes it's zed 4, certainly in the UK. Not every word should have an Americanism. As in bonnet not hood. 😁
Fantastic review! I think I would go for the 6 cylinder.
Thanks!!
Really good review thanks
Love the review thanks
Today i drive the z4m/ 2 years old and a new one the z43.0
We go for the z4 3.0, we must wait until the first of may, a great car
Great drivers car. Thanks Thomas
Hey Thomas, thanks for this video (and also all the others 😉).
I currently have a MX5 RF 2.0, and I love it. Although, since I’m a single car guy, I’m feeling a bit of a problem making some longer trips with it.
I like the new Z4, but I’m not so sure I would be as happy as I am with the MX5.
I’ve already driven the Z4 20i, and it feels much heavier (of course!) and less reactive. What do you think?
Thanks 🙏 yeah the mx5 is more purist and „manual“ whereas the z4 offers more comfort
As a previous two time MX-5 owner ('99 & '08), I agree with your assessment. The MX-5 is light and more nimble, less powerful, but totally enjoyable attacking a corner while still remaining at/under the speed limit...legal Freude am Fahren as BMW would say. Where the enhanced performance, build quality, greater mass(solidity) and amenities pay off for the Z4 is in long distance cruising..where the engines not spinning at nearly 4k at highway speeds, bouncing a bit with heavy wind buffeting/roar. At the end of a long distance MX-5 cruise, albeit fun, you're wiped out from engine and wind noise...not nearly the case with the Z4.
Miata13 are you talking about 2019 Z4 or about the previous generation?
@@mattiap212 ....The current/new generation 2019 Z4....I had a nice but much too short test drive several weeks ago.
Miata13 are you going to swap the MX5 for it (or would you do it anyway)?
I'd chose the 30i especially if there is 150kg weight difference to the 40i! I drive a 230i coupé, same engine range there with the 220i, 230i and 240i. (B48 with two different tunes and the B58).
Qualitativ hochwertiges Video! Sehr cool.
👌🙏
Great in-depth review as per usual, keep up the good work and I too love your English with a German accent.
My 435d convertible will be returned in November and this is on the shortlist to replace it, the problem I’ve found is the extras by pack philosophy we have here. I like the look of the 30i Sport but want the adaptive suspension and the better brakes but you can only get those with the MSport plus pack. It’s either that or a used SL400
loving your videos from S.Korea! I definitely have this in my options for my next vehicle, but it is so sad that we only get 20i and not 30i. Any suggestions between z4 20i or a used 718 boxter?
Thanks 🙏 this if u want more comfort!
Beautiful car, thank You Thomas! Cabrio FTW!
Hi Thomas I was just wondering how is the gearbox in this 30i version? Amazing review by the way.
Thx! Good man!
Wow, amazing lighting and amazing review. I hope to pick this car up in a couple years used.
me too, I think it ll be like 25,000 euros in 2 years with like 40,000-50,000km. What do u think?
Nice review
Cheers 🙏
Learned so much watching your video. And you are correct the s30i is good enough for driving in the US. Love my car, 3 weeks old:) Thank you.
Interesting video, Thomas, I think if I would order this car I would pay the extra money to have a 6 cylinder. But the 30 i is of course powerful enough also. A good option of course is the Toyota Supra where you have no choice of engines,
Also the Supra offers 4 and 6 cylinder
Really nice review I am looking for 30i is a good choice for UK and European roads trips😊thank you
What do you prefer? Bmw z4 20i or mx5? Love your videos!
Die Straßen kenn ich doch, der Mann fährt durch Kupferdreh 😃 tolles Review, bekomme meinen Z in 1 Woche, Gruß aus bredeney !
viel Spaß damit =)
beautiful car. i think the 30i is perfect for this car.
Wow s30i is 68000 euro and M40i is 75000 euro, after I looked on the Z4 brochure in Thailand s30i is 3,999,000 baht ( 115,000 euro ), M40i is 4,999,000 (145,000 euro). We can buy 911GTS in euro the same price of M40i. LOLLL
Great review !
Cup holders are oddly concealed, as in, if you have a cup in the holder, you have to drive with the centre console lids in the up position
Indeed
Hi Tomas/ team love the reviews . Do you think you could press on the dash and inlays and plastics a bit more during interior reviews to see if they make noise. If the build quality is good it should not make noise ???
thanks! Ok will do!
Thomas, great review as usual! Interesting point on stop start...agree it is probably bad for the engine and doesn’t save fuel, but what about the reduction in emissions in town? Have you tested that? Thanks!
Engine engineers say its bad for engine... and at startup u often accelerate harder again
As much as I would love to have 6cyl engine finaly.
The fact that I mostly do stop and go traffic, my needs are satisfied with 20i even. :(
Is it possible to have a review of the Toyota Supra and have a comparison between them?
we ll try!
Very very nice car and quality build congratulations BMW
I hate that they got rid of the hardtop. I thought the previous generation looked much sleeker and classy.
Much beter looking then
The supra and it's a convertble
So Thomas your edict of "no replacement for displacement" , (mine too) doesn’t apply totally to the Z4? I think you’re right another great review by the way. That really goes without saying tbh. Keep up the good work. I always like and retweet your tweets from both channels.
Cheers! Well in this case, price and lower weight are also quite nice.
I would always pick the BMW 6 Cylinder.
A very adult intelligent review, thank you. I see this car from the view of the fact I have a 2000 Z-3 so I will share my opinion.
The styling looks too much like every other roadster. The fake front side scoops are only bug collectors. Comfort and quality is the biggest plus of this car. The 4 cylinder is fast and powerful enough for any intelligent sports car enthusiast. I would prefer standard hydraulic rack and pinion sports car steering. For me I'd loose all of the touch screen nonsense and get back to a real man's machine. Real gauges, nothing digital. I think many adult people would appreciate a real solid sports vehicle by BMW in the solid style of the Z-3. Also with a distinct style and design as the Z-3 was in its day. Thank you again for the most complete and informative review.
Thanks keep joining!
and many would disagree. Admittedly subjective, the Z3 looks dated, and this comes from a guy who owned and loved (still loves) an early '70s MGB. The reality (that I'm admittedly sometimes reluctant to accept) is that they'll NEVER be able to build them like they used to because of increased government regulations. I do like your plain and simple style though.
Buy the M40i, you wont regret it. The mid range power is seriously addictive.
Really nice one but is it worth the money over a Mazda MX5 Miata?
No
No unless you go for the 40i
Definitely not if you like driving.
@@whatevernevermind5960 So the M40i is so much better? in what way???
@@bsebesty Because of its engine. The Inline-6 is reason enough alone to distinguish the Z4 from the MX5!
I’m American and I love how Thomas pronounces the Z4.
He says “Zed 4” 😝
"Zed's dead baby. Zed's dead." :D
I’m from Belgium and here we also say “zed 4”. How do you pronounce a Z4?
@@TimothyBrake Zee4
Thomas, just to clear things up, another youtube channel did a test and showed that start-stop saved fuel in stops longer than 6 seconds
Well but you need to take into account that there are always situations where you accelerate harder after using it since u are catching up to traffic. You cannot measure this effect. Plus it destroys the engine long term
@@autogefuehl newer systems are connected to the assistance systems, so the engine is already running when you have the chance to accelerate in stoplights or traffic, and won't stop at all in junctions and roundabouts (I'll give you that point on more "reactive" systems, but adding that it's still driver dependent)
@@joaoferraz66 I mean that even if you see the traffic light directly, you will start accelerating again 1 second less. And in many situations, people use more throttle then instead when they would be starting to accelerate 1 second before. Also, I talked to engineers who cut open engines literally after test runs for hundreds of thousands of kilometres, and they told me that those system would be bad for the engine (they can find deposits of unburned stuff in the engine plus long start-stop-situations apply a lot of pressure to the system, I figured they should probably know. I am happy to find out otherwise if there are better systems on the market that dont do that.
@@autogefuehl I was assuming the driving style wouldn't be affected by the activation, or not, of the start-stop system. In the scenario you just described it might be harmfull, I agree.
Regarding engine damage, I was also thinking about a "smarter" system, that reads engine conditions to decide on activation and have stronger starter engines (mild hybrids come to mind). The damage you talk about can also be found on engines that do smaller journeys, so the problem might lie somewhere in between...
But it seems we have different views on the subject, no point going back and forth. Agree to disagree?
@@joaoferraz66 No problem, it's about having different views, just exchanging info, all good. Maybe that issue is better with MHEV indeed.
Nicely done. Thanks
Can you make a review of 2.0 model with 197 HP?
Not that it makes a big difference...
In HK, only 20i or 40i are available and the price difference is USD20K. However, in 40i, you get e-diff, adaptive suspension, 19-inch wheel more along with the inline-6 engine. However, I still would opt for 20i as I treat it as my daily and the petrol is very experience, USD2.23/Litre. Also, reading the review from FB/youtube, the 40i is nose heavy which is no good for handling. With 20i, it comes with basic spec, lighter car and I guess I could chip it to similar power of 30i. Don't know if this is logical?
Agree. 20i and 30i is same engine, just software tune
Very good question about 6 v 4 cylinders Thomas. I drive in Europe including German autobahns as well as countries, where although speed limits are imposed, they are not rigouristically obeyed. My observation tells me that in general Europeans drive much faster than Americans with cars having much less power. Therefore I have been always wondering why Americans put so much focus on power, which they do not use, frankly. Many US car reviewers say about 2.0 ~250hp 4cylinder powered European midsize cars that they are underpowered. Everytime I hear this I ask myself underpowered for what? 250hp is enough for any driving situation, including fast motorway blasts as well as overtaking. Sure, 6 cylinders are always better than 4 but they are so much more expensive to run. I am talking about additional taxes (excise, eco, etc - depending on country) you have to pay to enjoy 6 cylinder. In the place where I live, the price difference between well optioned 4 and 6 cyl Z4 is more than 25k Euros due to taxes.
Well said
Have you seen an average US family? With both parents having 100-130+ kg each, with two of their children of slightly less weight, with a full boot of groceries bought in bulk because they have to drive multiple km to get to the store.
Each maneuver, even the parking would require gas flooring or kick down with a 2L engine.
Super review. Aboniert.
hi Thomas, I just got my 20i MANUAL and it doesn't have the same exhaust sound as this 30i you reviewed here, though they are the same engine. Is that because it's a manual, or is it because I have to rev it real hard? To be honest the manual is not that great, I prefer auto, but this one's at 15% discount, clearly nobody wanted it, and if I go for auto, I need to wait for 6 months, thereby missing the autumn convertible season. Hence I have this 20i manual M!
Buenas tardes Thomas, lo primero felicitarte por el canal. Qué opinas del Z4 g29 20i de 197 caballos? Hay mucha diferencia con respecto al 30i? Muchas gracias un saludo
Hola! I think since there is only software tune you can live with both!
I'm buying 30i mostly because I like more quiet engine soind in everyday mode.
FLUID EXPRESSION SUPER COMMUNICATION SUPER PROMOTION....👏👏👏.👍
“In full screen, full HD and full length”
Is sport mode exhaust sound piped into the cockpit via the speakers like the TT?
is the difference in HP between the two 4-cylinder cars simply down to an ECU tune?
The 6 cylinder is only 1 second faster 0-60 plus being older now I'd rather have better MPG & comfort. The extra money isn't worth it to me.
How would you compare this BMW to the Mercedes-Benz CLK? And how is visibility with the top up? Thank you for a great presentation.
Cheers! Not too bad actually - but of course you sit low, it's sporty
►Compare the review of the Z4 M40i: ruclips.net/video/eQLtii-Qh4Y/видео.html
►Compare the Toyota Supra: ruclips.net/video/QG-vP1ztUlU/видео.html
►BMW Z3 heritage footage: ruclips.net/video/qeshzVlIyWk/видео.html
Hello Thomas. My name is Karthik from Bangalore, India. I really love watching your show and reviews. I need a clarification from you.
Modern cars and scooter nowadays have automatic engine turning off when vehicle comes to a halt. And automatically again swtiches on once the vehicle is ready to roll. Does this actually save fuel or does more damage to the engine in the long run. Please suggest
Cheers! It damages the engine in the long run, especially when the function works for a longer time (long red traffic light situation e.g.). It does save fuel in the moment where the engine is not running, however it quite often happens that you for example start the engine again, then you are a second late, and then you accelerate harder again to catch up to the second you lost at starting at the traffic light. So imho it saves fuel on paper, but it doesnt save real fuel in the consumer's life.
Thomas
You guys still remember to eat, sleep and do those other stuff, we mortals do????? :)))))
😂keeping up the effort for u!