BMW Z4 (2019-2026) Buyer’s Guide
The G29-series BMW Z4’s time in South Africa has come to an end. Eyeing a used version of this rear-wheel-drive German roadster? Here’s what you need to know…
The automotive market can be a brutal place, particularly for vehicles positioned in so-called “diminishing” segments. The G29-series BMW Z4 roadster is a case in point, with the German firm officially ending production in March 2026, with no immediate replacement on the horizon.
While the Munich-based brand’s apparent decision not to develop a direct successor makes perfect financial sense – after all, a 2-seater roadster is an incredibly tough sell in the modern car-buying landscape – it’s nevertheless sad to see this classic configuration fall by the wayside.
Thankfully, local buyers who remain keen on open-top, rear-wheel-drive thrills can turn to the used market, where they’ll find a modest smattering of 3rd-generation units (alongside a few examples of this model’s Z-badged forebears, such as the E89 and E85).
As a reminder, while the E89-series Z4 featured a retractable hardtop, the G29 reverted to the classic soft-top convertible layout that had been used by the E85. It’s also worth noting the G29 was developed alongside the A90-series Toyota GR Supra, with both models built by Magna Steyr in Austria.
BMW Z4 (G29) model line-up in South Africa
The G29-series roadster was revealed globally at Pebble Beach in August 2018, around a year after the presentation of the Concept Z4. The production model then enjoyed its official show debut at Mondial de l’Automobile in Paris in October 2018.
In March 2019, the Z4 hit the market in South Africa, available in 2 forms: the 4-cylinder sDrive20i (standard in Sport Line guise but optionally offered in M Sport trim) and the 6-cylinder M40i (the M Performance derivative). In either case, an 8-speed automatic transmission shipped standard.
- Z4 sDrive20i 8AT (145 kW/320 Nm)
- Z4 M40i 8AT (250 kW/500 Nm)
In early 2020, the SA-spec BMW Z4 M40i’s peak power output was quietly increased to 285 kW, some 35 kW more than what was offered at launch. Although the 6-cylinder’s maximum torque was unchanged at 500 Nm, this peak twisting force was on tap across a broader rev range than before.
By March 2023, the facelifted Z4 had made local landfall, having benefitted from mild styling revisions and a brace of new exterior paint colours. The same 2-derivative range did duty, although the M Sport package was now standard on the 4-cylinder variant.
With the local market seemingly favouring the M Performance derivative, the Z4 sDrive20i was discontinued in South Africa around October 2024. Then, soon after global production of all Z4 variants ceased in March 2026, the Z4 M40i was dropped from BMW Group Africa’s official price list, too.
What are the G29 BMW Z4’s strengths?
Soulful straight-6 engine: While the turbocharged 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder petrol engine in the sDrive20i wasn’t exactly lacking in punch – seeing off the obligatory 0-100 kph sprint in a respectable 6.6 seconds – it was the M40i’s 6-pot that impressed most.
Yes, the B58 turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-6 petrol engine – initially offered in 250 kW guise but soon uprated to the full-fat 285 kW output (a luxury incidentally not afforded to European markets) – generated not only substantial grunt, but also produced a soulful soundtrack that was best enjoyed with the roof down.
For the record, the 250 kW version of the Z4 M40i had a listed 0-100 kph time of 4.6 seconds, a figure that fell to a claimed 4.1 seconds in the case of the 285 kW tune. Still, this 500 Nm motor’s true strength was its in-gear punch, which allowed it to offer remarkably flexible performance. Furthermore, the 6-pot derivative came with an M Sport differential as standard.
Quick-to-operate fabric roof: The G29-series Z4’s electrically operated fabric roof – which came standard in black but was optionally offered in an anthracite hue – took a mere 10 seconds to fully open or close. Furthermore, it could be operated at speeds up to 50 kph.
Not only could it open in around half the time of the E89’s hardtop, but this soft-top configuration saved valuable weight and effectively lowered the vehicle’s centre of gravity. Still, when viewing a potential buy, make sure to thoroughly inspect the roof mechanism and listen closely for any untoward sounds during operation.
Daily usability: Despite its sporting pretensions, the Z4 served up a reasonable level of daily usability – for a 2-seater roadster, anyway. For instance, it offered a useful 281 litres of luggage space whether the soft-top was open or closed. That’s a considerable 50% more luggage capacity than the G89 that came before it.
Fitted with adaptive suspension (an option on the sDrive20i but standard on the M40i), the Z4 was capable of delivering a surprisingly pliant ride, too. Note, however, that the sDrive20i could also be optionally specified with a firmer M Sport suspension set-up.
What are the G29 BMW Z4’s weaknesses?
“Artificial” steering feel: In our comprehensive 2019 review of the M40i derivative, we cited the rear-wheel-drive Z4’s steering as a “textbook example of how artificial/software interference can detract from the overall driving experience”. Although the steering was relatively direct, it offered a disappointing lack of feel.
The steering felt frustratingly slow close to centre but abruptly sped up once greater steering angles were applied, a phenomenon that could upset the driver’s rhythm. Note that, with less mass over its front axle, the sDrive20i (which tipped the scales at 1 480 kg) felt a little pointier through the bends than the more nose-heavy M40i (which was around 130 kg beefier).
No manual ‘box for South Africa: While the ZF-sourced 8-speed automatic transmission (known as the “Steptronic Sport” in BMW parlance) was a fast-shifting ‘box particularly well matched to the 6-cylinder engine, it was nevertheless a pity a few manual-equipped examples didn’t find their way to Mzansi.
Interestingly, the Munich-based automaker opted to offer the M40i with a 6-speed manual cog-swapper in select markets only from 2024 (as part of the so-called Handschalter Pack), which was remarkably late in this model’s lifecycle.
Condition-based servicing: The Z4 shipped with BMW’s standard 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan, but – like virtually all models in the German group’s stable – featured so-called “condition-based servicing” (CBS) rather than predetermined service intervals. What exactly does this mean?
Well, the vehicle essentially monitored the condition of various components (including the engine oil) and alerted the driver only when the onboard diagnostics system determined a workshop visit was necessary. As we’ve said before, there’s an argument to be made that, under certain circumstances at least, these flexible service intervals could be extended a little too far.
Therefore, many fastidious BMW owners today opt to slot intermediate oil changes between the CBS recommendations. So, we’d suggest paying particularly close attention to the service history of any used Z4 you’re considering to make sure you’re satisfied with the frequency of the performed routine maintenance.
How much is a used G29 BMW Z4 in South Africa?
In South Africa, the G29-series BMW Z4 came standard with a 2-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and the aforementioned 5-year/100 000 km maintenance plan. There were several extra-cost options on offer, from adaptive LED headlamps and a head-up display to steering-wheel heating and various alloy-wheel designs.
At the time of writing, there were just 16 units of the G29-series BMW Z4 listed on Cars.co.za – 14 examples of the M40i and just a pair of sDrive20i derivatives. Indicated mileage ranged from 3 400 km on a 2023 M40i model to 105 000 km on a 2019 sDrive20i.
- Below R800 000: We found 6 units priced below the R800 000 mark, including the only sDrive20i examples listed (the highest-mileage model mentioned above, for R479 900, and a 2023 derivative for R698 950). The remaining M40i variants here were all pre-facelift examples. We also noted a “First Edition” model priced at R719 950.
- R800 000 and up: At the time of writing, there were 10 units (all M40i) priced above this point, with most pre-facelift examples slipping in just below the 7-figure mark. The most expensive G29-series BMW Z4 we discovered was a 2025 model (with an indicated 10 500 km on its odometer) priced at R1 199 000.
For context on the figures above, note that the Z4 M40i was priced at R1 330 000 when it quietly exited SA’s new-vehicle market early in 2026 (having launched at a base price of R1 030 500 back in March 2019).
Which BMW Z4 derivative should I choose?
So, which version of the G29 most deserves your attention? Well, while the sDrive20i certainly had its merits, we’d point to the straight-6 derivative as the one to have. The extra performance on offer from the B58 engine served up in a far more visceral driving experience, after all.
It’s also worth remembering the more expensive M40i obviously featured far more standard kit than the base sDrive20i, including items like ambient cabin lighting, parking sensors (front and rear), BMW Live Cockpit Professional, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon surround-sound system and larger alloy wheels (19-inch items rather than 18 inchers).
What are some alternatives to BMW’s Z4 roadster?
Over its circa-7-year local lifecycle, the 3rd-generation Z4 faced a handful of open-air rivals, including the retractable-hardtop R172-series Mercedes-Benz SLC (earlier known as the SLK) that went out of production soon after the BMW arrived.
Still, it was the razor-sharp 982-series Porsche 718 Boxster that offered the purest sportscar driving experience (particularly in flat-6 guise) in the segment. Other options included the Audi TT Roadster (with its front-wheel-drive or quattro platform) and the Jaguar F-Type Convertible (available with a stonking V8).
Is the BMW Z4 a smart used purchase?
Equipped with that silky smooth straight-6 engine, the G29-series BMW Z4 in M Performance form offered a pleasing balance of grand-touring comfort and white-knuckle rear-wheel-drive dynamics.
This dual personality was perhaps its defining feature, helping set the Z4 apart from both harder-edged rivals and so-called “poser” ragtops. What a shame this badge – and indeed much of this segment – is no more…
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the current production status of the G29-series BMW Z4 in South Africa?
A: The G29-series BMW Z4 has reached the end of its lifecycle, with global production officially ceasing in March 2026. Following the discontinuation of the sDrive20i derivative in October 2024, the range-topping M40i was subsequently removed from BMW Group Africa’s official pricelist in early 2026, marking the end of the Z4’s availability in the local new-vehicle market.
Q: How did the BMW Z4 M40i performance change during its South African lifecycle?
A: While the M40i initially launched with 250 kW at its introduction in March 2019, the peak power output for the SA-spec 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-6 engine was quietly increased to 285 kW in early 2020. This update also widened the peak torque band, resulting in a claimed 0-100 kph sprint time of 4.1 seconds for the uprated model.
Q: What are the potential drawbacks or “watch items” for a used G29 BMW Z4?
A: Prospective buyers should be aware of a few specific points: the steering has been criticised for feeling artificial and inconsistent near the centre; there was no manual gearbox option provided for the South African market; and because the vehicle uses “condition-based servicing” (CBS) instead of fixed intervals, it is vital to review the service history closely. Many owners recommend performing intermediate oil changes to ensure long-term engine health.
Q: Is the Z4 sDrive20i or the M40i a better used buy?
A: The M40i is generally the preferred choice due to its visceral performance and significantly more comprehensive standard equipment list, which includes features like a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, adaptive suspension, and larger 19-inch alloy wheels. While the sDrive20i is a capable roadster, the M40i’s B58 straight-6 engine defines the Z4 experience and offers a more complete “M Performance” package.
