BMW Z4

The Z4 looks sharp but isn't as entertaining as we expect a sports car to be. Handling is secure, but vague steering, a penchant for pushing wide through corners, and a jittery ride undermine the fun factor. Its 2.0-liter, turbo four-cylinder is plenty powerful and returned 28 mpg overall, but it has a diesel-like idle. The six-speed manual feels crisp and is easy to shift. An eight-speed automatic is optional, as are powerful six-cylinder engines that come with a seven-speed sequential transmission. The well-finished cabin has plenty of leg and head room but feels narrow. The iDrive infotainment system can be fussy to use, especially when the Z4 is equipped with a manual transmission. The retractable hardtop keeps it fairly quiet inside. 2016 was the last year for this model.