2012 BMW Z4: What's New, Specs & Features

Last updated August 4, 2026

The 2012 BMW Z4 is a trim and powertrain update, not a redesign. The main change is the new sDrive28i, which replaces the sDrive30i and swaps its six-cylinder engine for a 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder.

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About the 2012 BMW Z4

2nd generation Z4 (E89, 2009-2016), fourth model year, pre-facelift.

BMW positions the Z4 as a classic long-hood two-seat roadster with more everyday comfort and polish than a stripped-down sports car. Its folding hardtop, upscale cabin, strong turbo engines, and roomy-for-the-class interior make it feel like a small luxury grand-touring convertible as much as a back-road toy. The appeal is open-top style and premium feel first, with sharp performance and rear-wheel-drive balance close behind.

For 2012, BMW positions the sDrive28i as the balanced everyday Z4, pairing its 240-hp turbo four-cylinder with a power-folding hardtop and Comfort, Sport, and Sport+ driving modes. The sDrive35i is the more luxurious middle model, with a 300-hp turbo six-cylinder, leather upholstery, and power seats. The sDrive35is is the performance-focused version, using a 335-hp turbo six-cylinder, a quick-shifting dual-clutch automatic, adaptive sport suspension, and sportier bodywork.

What changed, by category

Powertrain

The sDrive28i replaces the sDrive30i as the entry model. It uses a new 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder instead of the previous model's non-turbo six-cylinder; the sDrive35i and sDrive35is engines carry over.

Safety

The alarm system moves from optional to standard across the lineup.

Tech

Bluetooth, USB ports, and a power driver's seat move from optional to standard across the lineup.

2012 BMW Z4 specs and features by trim

Feature	2012 BMW Z4sDrive28i1 in stock	2012 BMW Z4sDrive35i0 in stock	2012 BMW Z4sDrive35is0 in stock
Engine	4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter	6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter	6-Cyl, Twin Turbo, 3.0 Liter
Transmission	Auto, 8-Spd w/Spt Md	Automatic, 7-Spd Double-Clutch w/Manual Mode	Automatic, 7-Spd Double-Clutch w/Manual Mode
Drivetrain	RWD	RWD	RWD
Fuel Type	Gas	Gas	Gas
MPG City	24 mpg	17 mpg	17 mpg
MPG Highway	33 mpg	24 mpg	24 mpg
Horsepower	240 hp	300 hp	335 hp
Torque	260 lb-ft	300 lb-ft	332 lb-ft
Trunk/Cargo	8 cu-ft	8 cu-ft	8 cu-ft
Seats	2	2	2
Doors	2	2	2
Safety & Security
Alarm System
Automatic High Beams
Exterior Features
Alloy Wheels
Entertainment & Electronics
Bluetooth
Navigation System
Premium Audio
Smartphone Interface
USB Ports
Comfort & Convenience
Aluminum Interior Trim
Dual Power Front Seats
Dual-Zone Climate Control
Heated Front Seats
Heated Steering Wheel
Leather Seats
Memory Driver's Seat
Proximity Keyless Entry

How the 2013 BMW Z4 compares

For 2013, BMW made only light equipment changes to the Z4, led by proximity keyless entry becoming standard across the lineup. The engines, body, retractable hardtop, and three-trim lineup carried over.

See the full 2013 changes

Frequently asked questions

What is the biggest change to the 2012 BMW Z4?

The biggest change is the new sDrive28i entry model. It replaces the sDrive30i and introduces a 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder to the Z4 lineup.

Is the 2012 BMW Z4 a redesign?

No, the 2012 BMW Z4 is not a redesign. It remains part of the second-generation Z4 and receives no major body, platform, chassis, or lineup-wide styling changes.

How does the 2012 Z4 sDrive28i differ from the 2011 sDrive30i?

The 2012 sDrive28i replaces the sDrive30i with a 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder. The outgoing sDrive30i used a non-turbo six-cylinder engine.

Which 2012 BMW Z4 trims have a six-cylinder engine?

The 2012 Z4 sDrive35i and sDrive35is have turbocharged 3.0-liter six-cylinder engines. The sDrive35i makes 300 hp, while the performance-focused sDrive35is makes 335 hp.

Did the 2012 BMW Z4 gain more standard equipment?

Yes. An alarm system, Bluetooth, USB ports, and a power driver's seat became standard across the 2012 Z4 lineup after being optional the year before.