“Our new Z4 is our fun to drive vehicle. It is not driven on a regular basis. We previously owned a roadster and enjoyed driving it on local trips etc.”
2015 BMW Z4: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The 2015 BMW Z4 is mostly a carryover, but the sDrive35i gets the year’s key change: a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and steering-wheel paddle shifters become standard. The three-trim roadster lineup otherwise returns without major changes.
About the 2015 BMW Z4
2nd generation (E89, 2009-2016), second model year after the 2014 refresh.
BMW presents the Z4 as a premium two-seat roadster that mixes classic long-hood, rear-drive sports-car proportions with a quieter, more secure retractable metal roof. Its appeal is not stripped-down track focus; it is open-air driving with a richer cabin, strong turbocharged engines, and everyday usability. Against soft-top rivals, the Z4 leans more toward sporty grand-touring comfort while still delivering quick responses and adjustable drive modes.
The sDrive28i is the approachable version, with a 240-hp turbo four-cylinder, rear-wheel drive, and a power-folding hardtop. The sDrive35i steps up to a 300-hp turbo inline-six, while the sDrive35is is the performance-focused model with an adaptive sport suspension, sport seats, and more aggressive bodywork.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The sDrive35i makes its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic standard for 2015. A sport leather steering wheel with paddle shifters also becomes standard on this trim.
2015 BMW Z4 specs and features by trim
| Feature | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| 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 Sport Mode | Auto, 7-Spd Dbl Cltch Manual | Auto, 7-Spd Dbl Cltch Manual |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 22 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 33 mpg | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| Horsepower | 240 hp | 300 hp | 335 hp |
| Torque | 255 lb-ft | 300 lb-ft | 332 lb-ft |
| Trunk/Cargo | 10.9 cu-ft | 10.9 cu-ft | 10.9 cu-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | |||
| Automatic High Beams | |||
| Park Assist | |||
| Alloy Wheels | |||
| Bluetooth | |||
| Navigation System | |||
| Premium Audio | |||
| Smartphone Interface | |||
| USB Ports | |||
| Heated Front Seats | |||
| Heated Steering Wheel | |||
| Leather Seats | |||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | |||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | |||
| Push-Button Engine Start | |||
Frequently asked questions
What changed on the 2015 BMW Z4?
The main change is limited to the sDrive35i, which makes a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and steering-wheel paddle shifters standard. The rest of the three-trim lineup carries over without a major update.
Is the 2015 BMW Z4 a redesigned model?
No, the 2015 BMW Z4 is not a redesign. It belongs to the second-generation E89 lineup and arrives one model year after the exterior and interior refresh for 2014.
Did the 2015 BMW Z4 get different engines?
No, the 2015 BMW Z4 keeps the prior year’s engine lineup. The sDrive28i has a 240-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder, while the sDrive35i and sDrive35is use turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engines.
What is the main difference between the 2015 and 2014 BMW Z4?
The clearest difference is on the sDrive35i: its seven-speed dual-clutch automatic and paddle-shift steering wheel are standard for 2015. Beyond that trim-specific equipment change, the 2015 lineup largely matches 2014.
Does every 2015 BMW Z4 have a power-folding hardtop?
Yes, every 2015 BMW Z4 trim has a power retractable hardtop. That includes the sDrive28i, sDrive35i, and performance-focused sDrive35is.
2015 BMW Z4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2015 BMW Z4.
4.6
2015 BMW Z4
(41 reviews)
“Keep up the good work. I absolutely love this car and I already want to buy another one. Good job, BMW, keep up the good work.”
“The gauges look low class for a car of this price. My 13-year-old firebird had nicer-looking gauges. I'm otherwise very happy.”