2012 BMW Z4 - Features Review

The folding hardtop of the Z4 might be its best feature, raising or lowering in 20 seconds via a power switch in the console, the top quickly transforms the Z4 from an open-top roadster to a cozy coupe--and does so slickly and quietly. The automatic dual-zone climate control also adjusts to different modes depending on the top's position.

Inside the cabin itself, the Z4 is predictably well-equipped and high-tech--as long as the buyer ticks the right options boxes. Dynamic cruise control, HD radio, and dynamic Xenon headlamps are standard equipment, but you'll have to upgrade to get a USB port, Bluetooth, smartphone integration, or satellite radio. BMW Assist, a telematics service that adds information and emergency response features, is also available.

The optional navigation system includes iDrive, in its much-improved and streamlined fourth-generation form, plus an 80-GB hard drive system with 15 GB set aside for personal music storage. The new BMW Apps system is also available, letting users integrate smartphone apps directly into the iDrive control system, including streaming music, Facebook, Twitter, and more.

Available interior appearance, materials, and color customization is also extensive.

If there's one caveat with the Z4's available options list, it's that loading the car up with all of the bells and whistles can quickly raise the price from the $48,650 base price well past $70,000 on a highly optioned sDrive35is model.