The manual, part of the “Handschalter” package, is a $3,500 option, but also adds unique chassis tuning, staggered wheels, and exclusive colors.
7 hours ago
![The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i finally gets a manual gearbox, but it comes at a cost.](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2025-BMW-Z4-Manual-1024x576.jpg)
BMW has finally relented and will finally introduce a manual gearbox in the 2025 Z4 M40i. The 6-speed stick shift will be available worldwide starting March 2024, and will also be offered to customers in North America. With the “Handschalter” package (yes, that means “hand shift” in German), owners can also enjoy other unique features such as different suspension settings, wheels, paint colors, and interior trim.
They say better late than never, but for those who love the option of a row-your-own gearbox, the manual Z4 has been around for five years since the G29 Z4 was first launched, and two since Toyota introduced it to cars. It took many years to realize this goal. A cousin of BMW’s Supra.
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![The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i finally gets a manual gearbox, but it comes at a cost.](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2025-BMW-Z4-M40i-Manual-20-1024x683.jpg)
As you might expect, the manual gearbox accelerates slower than the eight-speed automatic. But no one is going to complain because in a manual car it takes him 4.2 seconds to sprint to 60 mph (96 km/h), whereas in an automatic car he takes 3.9 seconds. Sho.
Top speed from the 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine is still limited to 155 mph (249 km/h). Power and torque are also the same, with the Z4 M40i producing 382 hp (387 PS / 285 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm), respectively.
However, BMW says its engineering team has ensured this transmission is a perfect fit for the Z4, using M-specific parts in its construction to provide “the mechanical feel praised in BMW manuals”. There’s a lot of noise about what’s happened. Interpret this as the company clarifying that this is not a clone of the Supra’s manual box.
But gone are the days when automatic boxes were a more expensive option. Now, you’ll have to shell out an additional $3,500 for the privilege of deciding what gear your new boyfriend Z4 is in. Additionally, it is only available on the six-cylinder M40i. His entry-level Z4 sDrive30i will continue to be self-driving only in North America.
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![The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i finally gets a manual gearbox, but it comes at a cost.](https://www.carscoops.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/2025-BMW-Z4-M40i-Manual-04-1024x683.jpg)
Still, at least you get more than just a manual transmission for your money. Those who choose the 6-speed manual Z4 will get a unique chassis tuning for her as a reward for choosing her three pedals instead of two. This includes model-specific programming for the traction control and differential, unique auxiliary springs front and rear, reinforced anti-roll bar clamps, and reconfigured damper and sport steering settings.
Both visually and performance-wise, ticking the manual gearbox option also adds staggered rims, a first for the Z4. The two-color M light alloys measure 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, and should have a noticeable effect on the car’s handling.
If you equip your 2025 BMW Z4 M40i with a “handshalter” you will have the option of metallic paint at no additional charge. San Remo Green Metallic and Frozen Deep Green Metallic paint options are only available with his six-speed manual, the latter costing him a $2,950 premium. Complementing the paint are red brake calipers and extended shadow lines, or in other words, high-gloss black trim accents.
Finally, the manual package includes an interior upgrade that allows you to replace the synthetic Sensatec leather with genuine Vernasca cowhide at no additional cost. There are five shades to choose from, as well as Alcantara and leather options.