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BMW Z4 M40i Gets a Manual Makeover: The Return of the Stick Shift Thrill

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BMW Z4 M40i Gets a Manual Makeover: The Return of the Stick Shift Thrill

SHERIDAN, WYOMING – May 1, 2025 – For driving enthusiasts who crave a more connected, hands-on experience behind the wheel, BMW just handed you the keys to joy. The iconic Z4 M40i roadster is now available with a 6-speed manual transmission for the very first time, delivering a purist-friendly blend of raw power, sleek design, and precision handling.

A Legendary Driving Experience, Now More Engaging Than Ever

The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i “Handschalter” (German for “hand shift”) is more than just a sports car—it’s a celebration of what makes driving fun. BMW engineers developed this special edition with a single mission: give passionate drivers the ultimate thrill of shifting gears themselves.

The result? A 382-horsepower, TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine mated to a specially engineered 6-speed manual gearbox that rockets from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.2 seconds. And yes, the top speed? A heart-racing 155 mph.

“This package is designed for those who value the mechanical feel and visceral connection of a true sports car,” BMW shared in its announcement.

Refined for Precision, Tuned for Excitement

BMW didn’t stop at the transmission. The “Handschalter” package includes a host of upgrades that refine and enhance performance:

  • Unique chassis tuning for sharper response
  • M Sport brakes with red calipers
  • Adaptive M suspension and variable sport steering with recalibrated software
  • An M Sport differential with model-specific control logic
  • Staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels for enhanced grip and agility

Even seasoned drivers will feel the difference in cornering stability and responsiveness. The Z4 M40i now delivers performance that feels more intuitive, balanced, and exhilarating.

Design That Turns Heads—Inside and Out

The Z4 M40i with the manual option doesn’t just drive differently—it looks the part. BMW's Extended Shadowline black high-gloss trim adds a sleek, athletic edge to the exterior, along with unique mirror caps and airflow flaps that give it a bold, performance-focused stance.

Customers can choose from a palette of distinctive paint finishes, including:

  • San Remo Green metallic (exclusive to the manual version)
  • Alpine White non-metallic
  • BMW Individual Frozen Deep Green metallic (available for an additional $2,950)

Inside, you’ll find comfort and craftsmanship with a twist of exclusivity. Choose from five shades of Vernasca leather upholstery, including a standout Cognac/Black combo with M piping only offered on the manual variant. Or go sporty with Black Alcantara and blue contrast stitching.

Affordable Access to a Premium Driving Thrill

For those seeking old-school engagement with cutting-edge performance, the “Handschalter” package is available for just $3,500. That includes:

  • The 6-speed manual transmission
  • Distinct wheels and suspension tuning
  • Interior and exterior design exclusives
  • Premium paint options

This is driving pleasure redefined—an open-top, back-road-craving, gear-shifting good time in a refined, powerful package.

Where and When You Can Get It

The manual-equipped 2025 BMW Z4 M40i launched globally in March 2024 and is now available at BMW dealerships worldwide. Whether you're cruising the coast or carving up canyon roads, this new edition is ready to deliver a smile with every shift.

Take the Wheel of Something Special

BMW’s move to offer a manual transmission in the Z4 M40i isn’t just a throwback—it’s a bold step forward for those who believe driving should be an experience, not a task. With thrilling power, dynamic handling, and stunning design, the Z4 M40i “Handschalter” is proof that pure driving joy never goes out of style.

Learn more or configure your own at www.bmwusa.com