2009 BMW Z4 Joliet IL

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With the top down and the sun streaming into their comfortable cockpits, convertibles are the perfect way to enjoy open-air motoring. The latest models feature manual- or power-operated folding convertible roofs that seal out the elements to make them ideal all-season alternatives to a traditional fixed-roof coupe.

The 2009 Convertibles Buyer's Guide is a compiled list of the top-performing convertible models from J.D. Power and Associates three key automotive studies. The studies include the 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), the 2008 Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study, and the 2008 Initial Quality Study (IQS). In addition, we have also noted any models in the guide that have earned "5-star" crash test scores from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), or have been chosen as "Top Safety Picks" by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). All models are listed alphabetically by manufacturer.

2009 BMW Z4
Replacing the Z3 in BMW's lineup in 2003, the BMW Z4 is a sporty, rear-wheel-drive 2-seat convertible with a power-operated soft convertible top and a heated glass rear window. With a choice of 6-cylinder engines under the hood, BMW's Z4 has proven itself fun to drive and yet still frugal at the pump with EPA fuel economy ratings of 19 mpg city and 28 mpg highway (Z4 3.0i with automatic transmission). In addition, the BMW Z4 ranked among the top three models in its segment in our 2008 Vehicle Dependability Study (VDS), which focuses on owner-experienced problems during the third year of ownership. After engine enhancements in 2006, and minor cosmetic improvements in 2008, the 2009 BMW Z4 carries over mostly unchanged.

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