BMWs 2025 Z4 M40i Gets a Manual Makeover with the Handschalter Package

BMW is set to introduce a manual gearbox to its 2025 Z4 M40i model, as part of the "Handschalter" package. The six-speed stick shift will be available worldwide from March 2024, including for North American customers. Alongside the manual transmission, the package also includes unique suspension settings, wheels, paint colors, and interior trims.

The arrival of the manual Z4 comes five years after the launch of the G29 Z4 and two years after Toyota introduced it to the BMW's Supra counterpart. While the manual gearbox is slower to accelerate than the eight-speed automatic, with a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds compared to the automatic's 3.9 seconds, enthusiasts are unlikely to complain.

The top speed of the new Z4 remains limited to 155 mph (249 km/h) from its 3.0-liter turbocharged straight-six engine. Power and torque outputs also remain the same, with the Z4 M40i producing 382 hp (387 PS / 285 kW) and 369 lb-ft (500 Nm), respectively.

BMW highlights the efforts of their engineering team in ensuring that the transmission is perfectly suited to the Z4, delivering the "mechanical feel for which BMW manuals have been praised."

Fun With a Cost

Opting for the manual gearbox comes at a premium, adding an extra Rs. 2.90 Lakh ($3,500) to the price tag. Furthermore, it will only be available on the six-cylinder M40i, as the entry-level Z4 sDrive30i will remain auto-only in North America.

However, buyers do receive additional features for their money, including unique chassis tuning. This incorporates model-specific programming for the traction control and differential, unique auxiliary springs front and rear, a reinforced anti-roll bar clamp, and reconfigured damper and sport steering settings.

Choosing the manual gearbox also adds staggered-sized rims to both the visual and performance aspects, a first for the Z4. The bi-color M-light alloys are 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, which should significantly impact the car's handling.

The "Handschalter" package also includes exclusive metallic paint options, with the San Remo Green metallic and Frozen Deep Green metallic finishes only available for the six-speed manual, the latter at a Rs. 2.45 Lakh ($2,950) premium. Accentuating the exterior are red brake calipers and extended Shadowline trim accents with high-gloss black.

The interior upgrade included with the manual package allows buyers to switch from synthetic Sensatec leather to genuine Vernasca cowhide at no extra cost. There are five shades to choose from, as well as an Alcantara and leather option.

DriveSpark Thinks

In conclusion, the "Handschalter" package offers manual transmission enthusiasts a range of exclusive features, enhancing both the performance and aesthetics of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i. While it comes at an additional cost, the unique elements provided are sure to entice fans of manual gearboxes who have been eagerly awaiting this option.