The first impressions of the new BMW Z4 are emerging as international press start Z4 test driving sessions. Fans of the brand have been curious for some time to see if the new spider’s driving feel has been jeopardised or not.

After the jump, you’ll find some of the Z4 driving impressions from the press, as the 3.0 litre, twin turbo at 306 hp is tested. The current top-of-the-range engine is the one under examination (the 3.0 litre twin-turbocharged at 302 hp), although the BMW Z4 will also include the 2.5 litre 201 hp, with 250 Nm of torque, and a 3.0 litre, 255 hp engine.

Autocar mentions the folding hard top roof among the main changes to the Z4, and its heavier weight of 270 kg more than the previous model, but says this is balanced by its torque and fast transmission. From the review:

It hits 62mph in 5.1sec and a limited 155mph, figures that make it quicker up the strip than a Boxster S. The only real disappointment is the sound. With a pair of turbos muffling the induction and exhaust, it is hardly alluring.

With problems of understeering and then oversteering with 19-inch wheels and “Dynamic Stability Control”, Autocar thinks the standard 17-inch wheels will be a better option. In normal mode the Z4 is light on the steering, with not much feel, while sport and sport plus give better steering weight. Conclusions:

The new Z4 is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea. But with its distinctive looks, classy cabin, strong performance in sDrive35i guise, refinement and increased luggage capacity, it is certainly going to make life harder for the SLK and Boxster.

The problem is that it is not quite as involving behind the wheel as its high-end price tag might have you believe. With this in mind, we await the arrival of the Z4 M with interest.

Car also had some issues with steering problems, and agrees that the Sport mode is the best driving mode with greater steering feel, firm chassis and a sporty gearbox. On the normal mode, Car says:

Normal gives you a wafty ride, Audi TT-lite steering and a relaxed gearbox map for in-town pootling. Sport Plus ramps things up a little further with a hyperactive transmission and overly bumpy ride.

The BMW Z4 driving test from Car was conducted with the intended clientele in mind, giving greater insight into the car’s design and style choices. The new Z4 customers are a “softer, more mature breed” who are likely to be impressed by the interior mentioned above. The verdict:

If you’re looking for a drop-top driver’s car, you’ve come to the wrong place. The Z4 is the kind of car that will dazzle inexperienced drivers over a mountain road, yet leave keen drivers mildly amused but ultimately craving a little more interaction.

However, it’s perfectly judged for its intended clientele – refined, eye-catching, an event to drive, very well made. Just don’t go expecting the old Z4.

Car and Driver also had a Z4 test drive, welcoming the updated style and modern BMW look. The model in question was also the 300 hp, twin-turbocharged 3.0 litre engine with the sDrive35i badge.

Car and Driver confronted some steering problems as well, but enjoyed the suspension and sport plus mode.

Handling is predictable, which makes the Z4 feel lively at low speeds and inspires confidence as the pace quickens. The steering is well-weighted and direct, although it feels slightly isolated from the road. The Z4 moves sharply along twisty roads, but the steering feel and the extreme rearward driving position makes for a personality that is more deliberate than darty.

It seems the big difference in all three reviews is in the interior, with a classy style that has more room and comfort compared to the previous Z4. The new model looks like it will really make itself known amongst its competitors. Car and Driver concludes:

From a price perspective, the naturally aspirated Z4 costs a little more than the Mercedes-Benz SLK300 and Audi TT-S and is slightly less than a Porsche Boxster. The twin-turbo Z4 costs a little more than the SLK350, but undercuts the Boxster S and SLK55 AMG—significantly in the latter case. Styling is always a subjective matter, but the Z4 makes a strong case in this department, and it comes with a high level of standard equipment and the year-round practicality of the folding hardtop. The Boxster is a tough car to beat with its benchmark steering, lively responses, and commodious front and rear trunks. The Z4 is not on the same dynamic level as the Porsche but it is close, and better than the Benz and Audi. If you’re in the market for a two-seat convertible, the Z4 deserves a spot on your shopping list.

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