“This is fantastic vehicle to drive with great handling and performance. The technology is fantastic with great informational display, advanced phone integration and well developed safety features.”
2020 BMW Z4: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2020 BMW Z4 is the arrival of the sDrive M40i, a quicker 382-hp six-cylinder version with standard performance hardware. The sDrive30i otherwise carries over unchanged, so this is a lineup expansion rather than a redesign or refresh.
About the 2020 BMW Z4
3rd generation (G29), early U.S. launch phase; no refresh. The sDrive30i returns unchanged, and the sDrive M40i joins the regular U.S. lineup for 2020.
BMW positions the Z4 as a modern take on the classic roadster: rear-wheel drive, a fabric soft top, a long-hood/short-deck shape, and a driver-focused cabin. Its role is to deliver open-air fun without giving up the technology and comfort expected from a premium brand. Compared with rivals, the Z4 leans toward a blend of quick acceleration, upscale cabin finishes, usable cargo room, and easy daily drivability rather than a stripped-down track-car feel.
The sDrive30i is the more relaxed roadster, with a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a power soft top, a 10.25-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and a digital instrument display. The new sDrive M40i brings a more serious sports-car feel through its 382-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine, adaptive suspension, stronger brakes, and a rear differential that helps put power down when accelerating out of a turn.
What changed, by category
Powertrain
The sDrive M40i joins the lineup with a 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six and an eight-speed automatic transmission. The returning sDrive30i keeps its 255-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.
Structural
The new sDrive M40i adds standard adaptive suspension, M Sport brakes, and an M Sport rear differential for sharper responses and better traction during hard acceleration.
2020 BMW Z4 specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 4-Cyl, Turbo, 2.0 Liter | 6-Cyl, Turbo, 3.0 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 24 mpg | 24 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 31 mpg |
| Horsepower | 254 hp | 382 hp |
| Torque | 294 lb-ft | 368 lb-ft |
| Seats | 2 | 2 |
| Doors | 2 | 2 |
| Alarm System | ||
| Automatic High Beams | ||
| Blindspot Sensors | ||
| Lane Departure Warning | ||
| Park Assist | ||
| Rear View Camera | ||
| Alloy Wheels | ||
| Fog Lights | ||
| LED Headlights | ||
| Navigation System | ||
| Premium Audio | ||
| Smartphone Interface | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Interior Ambient Lighting | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2020 BMW Z4?
The biggest change is the addition of the sDrive M40i. It gives the 2020 Z4 lineup a 382-hp turbocharged six-cylinder model with standard adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, and a performance-focused rear differential.
Was the 2020 BMW Z4 redesigned?
No, the 2020 BMW Z4 was not redesigned or refreshed. It remained in the early phase of the third-generation G29 model, with the sDrive M40i joining the otherwise unchanged lineup.
How do the 2020 Z4 sDrive30i and sDrive M40i differ?
The sDrive30i has a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the sDrive M40i has a 382-hp turbocharged six-cylinder engine. The M40i also has standard adaptive suspension, M Sport brakes, and an M Sport rear differential for stronger acceleration and sharper handling.
Did the 2020 BMW Z4 sDrive30i change from 2019?
No, the 2020 Z4 sDrive30i carries over without a major product change. The meaningful lineup difference is the addition of the six-cylinder sDrive M40i.
2020 BMW Z4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2020 BMW Z4.
4.4
2020 BMW Z4
(123 reviews)
“Drives great. Looks great. Perfect blend of sporty and luxury. Good size trunk. Fun to drive. A little difficult to get in and out of”
“It's an amazing vehicle - a balance of performance and styling. Every detail is well-thought-through. The technology keeps getting better and better.”