2020 BMW Z4: A Carimports.co.ke Review

The Big Picture

The 2020 BMW Z4 (G29) is the roadster reborn. Origin: Germany (Engineered in Munich, built in Graz, Austria). First Generation: Launched in 2002 (E85). Current Generation: 3rd Generation (G29, launched 2019). This generation shares its chassis and engines with the Toyota GR Supra, but while the Supra is a track-focused coupe, the Z4 is a sophisticated soft-top cruiser. It marked a return to a fabric roof (saving weight over the old hardtop) and introduced a stunning new design language.

Quick Specs

Clearance 117 mm
Tank Size 52 Litres
Power 197 - 340 HP
Roof Soft Top

Engine Options & Model Codes

Two engines dominate the Kenyan import market:

  • sDrive20i (2.0L Turbo B48): 197 HP / 320 Nm. STANDARD This 4-cylinder engine is more than enough for Kenyan roads. 0-100 in 6.6s. It is lighter over the nose, making the car feel agile.
  • M40i (3.0L Turbo B58): 340 HP / 500 Nm. The inline-6 powerhouse. 0-100 in 4.5s. Incredible sound and speed, but significantly more expensive to buy and fuel.

Interior & Practicality

  • Driver-Centric: The cockpit wraps around the driver. It features the BMW Live Cockpit Professional (digital dash) and a large iDrive screen. The soft top opens in 10 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h.
  • Usable Boot: Unlike the old hardtop Z4, the soft top doesn't eat up boot space when folded. You get 281 Litres constant—enough for two carry-on suitcases.

Fuel Efficiency & Ownership Costs

  • Consumption: 12–14 km/l (sDrive20i). The B48 engine is remarkably efficient if you cruise in Eco Pro mode.
  • Service: Parts for the B48/B58 engines are common (shared with 3 Series, X3, X5). Body panels and convertible mechanism parts are the expensive items.
  • Tyres: Staggered setup (wider rear). Expect to pay a premium for quality rubber.

Suitability for Kenyan Roads

Low Clearance: 117mm is sports car territory. You must crab over speed bumps. The ride is firm but sophisticated. It is a car for the Northern Bypass on a Sunday morning, not for daily commuting in Industrial Area.

Prices for 2020 BMW Z4 for Sale in Kenya

The following prices represent the cost of buying a 2020 BMW Z4 (G29) in Kenya. These prices reflect showroom asking prices in major towns including Nairobi, Mombasa, Kisumu, Nakuru, and Eldoret.

Trim Level Import Cost (Approx) Showroom Price Difference
sDrive20i M Sport Ksh 5.8M Ksh 6.8M Ksh 1.0M
M40i (3.0L) Ksh 7.5M Ksh 8.8M Ksh 1.3M

The Ci Verdict

Who is this for? The driver who wants the joy of open-top motoring with the build quality and tech of a modern BMW. Who is it NOT for? Introverts or people with bad backs (it is low).

Meet the Rivals

Porsche 718 Boxster

Mid-engine balance, sharper handling, more expensive.

View Boxster Stock »
Toyota GR Supra

Coupe only (fixed roof), same engine, sportier tuning.

View Supra Stock »