The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i: Now Available in Six-Speed

The dedicated BMW roadster has seen a decent amount of press in the last month or so. Most recently, we got rumors claiming that the Z4 may be discontinued after the current generation to make way for BMW’s new electric models. Bummer.

More importantly, though, our German friends have officially announced that the Z4 M40i is going to be available with an exhilarating new six-speed manual transmission, along with a bunch of other new and exciting tweaks. And that’s decidedly not a bummer.

The Lowdown on the New Six-Speed BMW Z4 M40i

For the very first time, American fans of the Z4 roadster will be able to enjoy the current iteration of the zippy sports car with a manual gearbox, and it promises to deliver greater thrills than ever before (there’s a Z4 sDrive 20i that can be configured with a six-speed, but it’s only available overseas).

As an optional upgrade, the top-level 2025 Z4 M40i can now be fitted with the Handschalter Package, which translates as “hand shift.” The Handschalter’s gearbox was designed from scratch specifically for the Z4 model, and shares component DNA with performance M Sport models. The shiny new transmission is only the tip of the iceberg, though.

Unique tuning for the chassis also comes as part of the deal, providing improved response and a more active road feel that caters to those who delight in the act of running through the gears by hand. Standard equipment in the manual BMW Z4 includes a sturdier frontal anti-roll bar clamp and auxiliary springs at both axles, as well us upgraded computational input for the M Sport differential, rear dampers, and steering. The six-speed version also boasts staggered-size tires and wheels, with 19-inchers and the front and 20-inchers in the rear, giving it a wholly unique and impressive stance.

Additional goodies in the Handschalter Package include model-specific upholstery, paint colors, and exterior accents.

Of course, it’s all paired with the rowdy inline-six engine from the M40i model you already know and love, which puts out 369 pound-feet of torque and 382 horsepower, allowing it to achieve a straight-line zero-to-sixty run in about 4.2 seconds, and reach a ballistic top speed of 155 miles per hour.

Despite BMW’s ever-increasing portfolio of futuristic electric models, it’s nice to see that they haven’t left the simple pleasure of performance driving behind just yet.

New Gearbox, Same Impressive Luxury

Now that we’ve covered all the new features in the BMW Z4 M40i, let’s take a moment to appreciate all of the other impressive specs and equipment you’ll find within.

Even with its hopped-up engine, the M40i still manages to achieve some solid fuel economy compared to other models in its weight class—specs for the six-speed haven’t been released as of this writing, but the automatic transmission Z4 gets 23 miles to the gallon in the city, and 31 on the open road.

As a classic roadster model, The Z4 is defined by its sporty style and open-air feel provided by the retractable soft top, which is tailored with high-quality materials and folds down in ten seconds flat at the push of a button. It features plush seating for two, and despite its compact dimensions, it boasts 38.9 inches of headroom and 42.2 inches of legroom, assuring ample space for both riders. Critics like Car and Driver have also noted that it has generous storage real estate for a car of its size, with room for multiple large suitcases in the trunk, and plenty of in-cabin stowage to boot.

Of course, the thing that really sets the BMW brand apart is a focus on premium amenities. The infotainment display consists of a fully customizable 10.25-inch touchscreen, which runs on the latest BMW Operating System and has standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available goodies include a 408-watt Harmon Kardon Surround Sound array with 12 speakers and a full-color heads-up display. To top it off, access to diagnostic, convenience, and security functions has never been easier, thanks to the My BMW App with Comfort Access Technology on your smartphone.

Shop Luxury Roadsters at Braman BMW Today

Whether you’re looking for an easy-riding automatic, or you’re itching to take the new six-speed Z4 for a spin, we’ve got you covered. Give us a call at (786) 577-5220 to ask about a test drive, and while you’re at it, be sure to inquire about our new vehicle lease specials.