2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i
The 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is a roadster. It has a 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 240 hp (180 kW), with an 8-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive. 0–60 mph takes 5.0 seconds and top speed is 130 mph (209 km/h).
ABOUT THE 2015 BMW Z4 SDRIVE28I
The 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i is the four-cylinder version of the second-generation Z4 (E89), a two-seat roadster with a two-piece folding aluminium hardtop. It uses BMW’s N20 2.0-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, rated at 240 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, and drives the rear wheels. This entry covers the version with the eight-speed automatic; a six-speed manual was also offered.
Late in the E89’s life
The sDrive28i replaced the six-cylinder sDrive30i for the 2012 model year, bringing the turbocharged four-cylinder into the Z4 range. By 2015 the E89 was in its later years: changes from year to year were limited to equipment, trim and colour choices, and production ended after the 2016 model year. The next Z4 (G29) did not arrive until 2019, so the E89 was the last Z4 with a folding hardtop.
What it is like
With its roof up the Z4 feels like a snug coupe, and with it down it is an open roadster, which makes it versatile for year-round use. The four-cylinder engine provides strong mid-range torque and better economy than the sixes, while keeping the long-bonnet proportions of the classic BMW roadster. Boot space is limited with the roof stowed.
Buying one today
The N20 is known for timing chain guide wear on some engines, so listen for rattles on start-up and look for evidence of the work having been done. Oil leaks and electric coolant pump failures are also commonly reported. Cycle the roof several times and check the seals and drains.
Rivals
Rivals included the Porsche Boxster and the Mercedes-Benz SLK250.
Written by CarDetails.org. Last reviewed October 31, 2026.
SPECS
| Make | BMW | Model | Z4 sDrive28i |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year | 2015 | Version / Trim | BMW 2015 Z4 sDrive28i |
| Body Style | Roadster | Doors | 2 |
| Seats | 2 | Ext. Colour | Alpine White, Black Sapphire Metallic, Titanium Silver Metallic, Space Gray Metallic, Orion Silver Metallic, Deep Sea Blue Metallic, Melbourne Red Metallic, Crimson Red, Valencia Orange Metallic |
| Steering | LHD / RHD | Manufactured In | Germany |
| Drive | Rear-Wheel Drive (RWD) | Transmission | Automatic (S8) |
| Engine | 2.0L 4-cyl Turbo | Engine Size | 2,000 cc |
| Power | 240 hp / 180 kW | Torque | 350 Nm / 260 lb-ft |
| 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) | 5.0 sec | Top Speed | 130 mph (209 km/h) |
| Fuel Economy | 22 mpg city / 32 mpg hwy | ||
| Wheelbase | 2,496 mm | Kerb Weight | 1,350 kg (2,976 lb) |
HOW IT COMPARES WITH OTHER 2015 ROADSTERS
Compared with other 2015 roadsters in our database, its 240 hp is 36% less than the average 2015 roadster (373 hp).
| 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i | Average 2015 roadsters | Difference | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Power | 240 hp | 373 hp (5 cars) | -36% |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 426 Nm (5 cars) | -18% |
| 0–60 mph | 5.0 s | 4.8 s (5 cars) | +4% |
| Top speed | 130 mph | 152 mph (5 cars) | -14% |
| Kerb weight | 1,350 kg | 1,412 kg (6 cars) | -4% |
| Engine size | 2,000 cc | 3,950 cc (6 cars) | -49% |
Averages are calculated from all cars of the same model year and body type in the CarDetails.org database that have the figure listed. For 0–60 mph, a negative difference means quicker.
CLOSEST RIVALS
Other 2015 roadsters with similar power to the 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i.
| Car | Power | 0–60 mph | Kerb weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2015 BMW Z4 sDrive28i | 240 hp | 5.0 s | 1,350 kg |
| 2015 Audi TT Roadster quattro | 228 hp | 6.4 s | 1,260 kg |