Long-Term Test Verdict: 2003 BMW Z4 3.0i
Shifty business from the top down
By Editors of Motor Trend
Photography by Gautam Patki, Brian Vance
It was with great anticipation that we took the keys of our long-term BMW Z4. After all, the shark-nosed roadster with the flame-cut flanks was the controversial replacement for the Z3 and was touted as more aggressive and technologically advanced. Of course, it also meant we'd have a bright-red drop-top to get up close and personal with for a year's duration. Add the turbine-smooth 3.0-liter, 225-horsepower inline-six, and we couldn't go wrong, right? Well...almost.
We wanted to evaluate the new Sequential Manual Gearbox transmission offered for the first time in a standard BMW (available only in the M3 previously), so we chose that instead of BMW's six-speed manual or five-speed Steptronic manumatic transmission. The SMG uses an electrically actuated clutch, but no third pedal, and provides "fascinating new things for an enthusiastic driver to learn," so claims BMW. The SMG gives drivers the option of using steering-wheel-mounted paddles or the shifter to change gears. Also, in Drive mode, it offers fully automated shifting. A Sport program quickens upshifts, but on average, part-throttle shifts are stifled by long pauses.
Our SMG-equipped Z4 started putting itself in Neutral at the most inopportune moments, however, such as when we were stopped at a traffic light on a busy Los Angeles street during rush hour. It happened several times and caused concern among our staff. The dealer replaced the SMG control unit with an updated version, but it gave basically the same results as before. Drivers who used the SMG in other BMWs noted that the transmission worked much better in those applications, leading us to believe that we were just experiencing growing pains that'll improve in future Z4s.
On the flipside, though the SMG experienced heartburn upshifting, its lightning-quick, matched-revs downshifts were excellent--the Z4 serves up a healthy dose of attitude.
The straight-six's rorty exhaust sounds manly, and the sport suspension and solid chassis make this car a thrill to drive on canyon roads.
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