The "M" In 2025 BMW Z4 M40i Stands For "Manual"

For 2025, BMW will offer the Z4 M40i with a manual transmission. To row your own, BMW will charge a $3,500 premium over the automatic model, bringing the MSRP to $69,950. However, the stick Z4 doesn’t come without its own set of improvements to help justify the cost.

For starters, BMW switches the stick Z4 to a staggered wheel setup, measuring 255/35 R19 and 285/30 R20 front and rear, respectively. Moreover, the loss of the automatic transmission saves a solid 29 pounds. BMW has made changes to the car’s M Sport differential, as well as updated software for the variable steering system. Other changes include unique auxiliary springs and a newly reinforced anti-roll bar clamp. Rounding off changes, BMW has altered the traction control system. Unfortunately, the brand doesn’t get into specifics, saying only that the changes “incorporate model-specific control logic.”

Aesthetic changes will also help to differentiate the manual Z4. BMW adds an exclusive Individual Frozen Deep Green color (for a hefty $2,950 upcharge) to the trim, as well as San Remo Green Metallic. A price isn’t quoted for the latter, which leads us to believe it’ll be a no-cost option. The brand also adds Extended Shadowline (black) accents, and five leather color options will be available.

A singular, minor change was made to the way BMW’s excellent B58 inline-six delivers its power. Manual models deliver peak torque for longer (all 369 lb-ft of it), up to 5,000 rpm as opposed to the automatic model’s 4,500 rpm figure. Power is unchanged, and still a healthy 382 hp. BMW has also said that these updates will stay unique to the stick model, but the automatic is still the quicker car, hitting 60 mph in 3.9 seconds to the manual’s 4.2. We know which one we’d order. BMW says the manual Z4 will hit the market in March.

Become an AutoGuide insider. Get the latest from the automotive world first by subscribing to our newsletter here.