“This is potentially the last generation of the Z4. Two-seater convertibles are slowly dying.”
2021 BMW Z4: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The most important change for the 2021 BMW Z4 is standard Android Auto on both trims. Otherwise, this is a light equipment update rather than a redesign, with the same engines, two-trim lineup, and basic styling as 2020.
About the 2021 BMW Z4
3rd generation Z4 (G29), third model year; part of the 2019-2022 pre-refresh run before the 2023 styling and equipment update.
BMW positions the Z4 as a true two-seat roadster: compact, rear-wheel drive, open to the air, and built to feel special on a winding road or a long scenic drive. Compared with rivals, BMW leans into the Z4’s mix of roadster style, strong straight-line punch, everyday comfort, and a premium cabin with modern screens and connectivity. It is less about raw track focus and more about open-top driving fun with upscale manners.
The 2021 Z4 remains a two-seat, rear-wheel-drive convertible aimed at both everyday driving and top-down fun. The sDrive30i uses a 255-hp turbo four-cylinder and has a 10.25-inch touchscreen, while the more performance-focused M40i gets a 382-hp turbo inline-six, adaptive suspension, upgraded brakes, and heated sport seats.
What changed, by category
Tech
Android Auto becomes standard on both Z4 trims, joining wireless Apple CarPlay.
Safety
Automatic high beams move from optional to standard across the lineup.
2021 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 w/Sport & Manual Modes | Automatic, 8-Spd Sport w/Sport & Manual Modes |
| Drivetrain | RWD | RWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 25 mpg | 22 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 32 mpg | 30 mpg |
| Horsepower | 255 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 | ||
| USB Ports | ||
| Aluminum Interior Trim | ||
| Heated Front Seats | ||
| Heated Steering Wheel | ||
| Leather Seats | ||
| Leather-Wrapped Steering Wheel | ||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||
| Push-Button Engine Start | ||
| Remote Start | ||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2021 BMW Z4?
Standard Android Auto is the biggest change to the 2021 BMW Z4. It comes on both the sDrive30i and M40i, while most of the car carries over from 2020.
Is the 2021 BMW Z4 redesigned?
No, the 2021 BMW Z4 is not redesigned. It remains part of the third-generation Z4 introduced for 2019 and keeps the same basic styling, rear-wheel-drive layout, and two-trim structure as 2020.
Did the 2021 BMW Z4 get different engines?
No, the 2021 BMW Z4 keeps the prior year’s engines. The sDrive30i has a 255-hp turbocharged four-cylinder, while the M40i has a 382-hp turbocharged inline-six.
What safety equipment changed on the 2021 BMW Z4?
Automatic high beams became standard across the 2021 BMW Z4 lineup. There was no broader safety-system overhaul for the year.
Is the 2021 BMW Z4 meaningfully different from the 2020 model?
No, the 2021 Z4 is only modestly different from the 2020 model. Its main practical upgrades are standard Android Auto and standard automatic high beams; the trims, engines, and overall design remain largely unchanged.
2021 BMW Z4 Reviews
What owners are saying about the 2021 BMW Z4.
4.6
2021 BMW Z4
(106 reviews)
“Well built, quality materials, and fun to drive. My only disappointment was the color of the seat material was not exactly like the sample nor in my previous vehicle which was the same description and name.”
“It's fun to drive. Looks great with top down or up. It's comfortable for long trips or short ones. It is a fast car with plenty of power.”