2015 BMW Z4 sDrive35is

The Z4 is BMW's two-seat roadster, the one you cross-shop with the Porsche Boxster and Audi TT Roadster. It's a proper driver's car, with sharp steering and a suspension that keeps it flat through corners. The ride is on the firm side, which is the trade for how well it handles, so expect a few bumps on rough roads. The power hardtop folds away neatly, but with only two seats and a small trunk, it's best for weekend trips rather than hauling luggage. A more aggressive exhaust tune and the highest-output inline-six mark the sDrive35is as the range-topping Z4, sitting above the sDrive35i and sDrive28i. Its 3.0L I6 sends 335 horsepower to the rear wheels through a seven-speed automatic, and the EPA rates it at 20 mpg combined. The firmer suspension and quicker steering ratio make this the sharpest Z4 to drive, but you'll feel every expansion joint on the highway.