2025 BMW Z4 M40i Review: The Ultimate Roadster Returns with a Manual Transmission

The anticipation was palpable. The thought of a used, manual-equipped 2025 Bmw Z4 M40i hitting the market in a few years was exciting. However, reality check – this isn’t just any used car; it’s a future classic in the making, likely to appreciate, not depreciate. The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i, especially with the newly available manual transmission, isn’t just good; it’s arguably the best BMW you can drive right now.

This generation of the Z4 initially received mixed reactions. While its driving dynamics were generally praised, the aesthetics and price point were points of contention. Many enthusiasts clamored for a manual gearbox, recognizing the chassis and powertrain’s potential for engaging driving. Despite rumors of discontinuation due to less-than-stellar sales figures, BMW surprised everyone by delivering exactly what enthusiasts wanted.

2025 BMW Z4 M40i Front View

Delving into the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i

The BMW Z4 shares its platform with the Toyota Supra, a result of a collaborative effort. While often referred to as a convertible Supra, the Z4 boasts unique BMW steering and suspension tuning, setting it apart. The mid-cycle refresh (LCI) has further accentuated these differences, giving each car a distinct character.

Visually, the 2025 Z4 retains its original design cues – the distinctive headlights, elongated hood, wide kidney grilles, and a compact rear. In a BMW lineup increasingly characterized by polarizing designs, the Z4 stands out as a uniquely attractive model. While subjective, the test car’s Frozen Deep Green paint, although not the author’s top pick (Thundernight Metallic purple favored), is undeniably appealing.

BMW Z4 M40i Exterior Details

BMW Z4 M40i Side Profile

BMW Z4 M40i Rear View

Stepping inside the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is a refreshing reminder of BMW’s interior design prowess. Eschewing gimmicks and unnecessary complexities, the cabin is functional and driver-focused. All essential controls are intuitively placed and easily accessible. The seats are designed for both comfort on long journeys and support during spirited driving. The build quality is robust, promising longevity. The test car’s Cognac and black two-tone interior beautifully complements the exterior paint.

The Thrill of Driving the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i Manual

This is where the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i truly shines. BMW’s B58 engine, a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six, is a masterpiece. It delivers effortless power, refined smoothness, and a captivating soundtrack, amplified in the open-top Z4. While the engine’s excellence is established, the manual transmission is the revelation. Historically, BMW manuals have been criticized for their vague, rubbery feel. While the clutch in the Z4 retains a somewhat springy nature, the gear shifts are significantly improved. This manual gearbox is arguably the best in any recent manual BMW, making the driving experience exceptionally engaging.

BMW Z4 M40i Interior with Manual Gear Stick

BMW Z4 M40i Driving on Open Road

BMW Z4 M40i Cornering

BMW Z4 M40i Manual Transmission Detail

Driving a lightweight, two-seater convertible with a potent six-cylinder engine and a manual transmission is a pure joy. The 2025 Z4 M40i excels in this realm. The steering, while slightly lacking in ultimate feedback, is well-weighted, and the front end is remarkably responsive. The car feels agile and connected, enhancing the driving experience. While other great convertible sports cars exist, the Z4 M40i possesses a unique, old-school roadster character, capable of thrilling performance and driver engagement.

The suspension of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is particularly impressive. Even with large 19-inch front and 20-inch rear wheels, the ride quality is surprisingly comfortable, even on imperfect road surfaces. The ability to customize drive modes, with Comfort suspension and Sport settings for other parameters, further enhances the Z4’s versatility.

BMW Z4 M40i Driving in Rain with Roof Up

Even with the roof up, the 2025 Z4 M40i performs admirably. During a severe downpour, the soft top’s sound insulation proved surprisingly effective, making for a comfortable and quiet cabin experience.

Highlights and Minor Drawbacks of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i

The addictive power of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is a major highlight. BMW claims a 0-60 mph time of 4.2 seconds for the manual version (3.9 seconds for the automatic), but the sheer thrill of acceleration and manual gear changes is paramount. The convertible functionality is also well-executed; the power roof operates quickly in just 10 seconds at speeds up to 30 mph. Wind noise is minimal with the top down and windows up, making highway cruising enjoyable. The trunk space is surprisingly generous for a compact convertible.

BMW Z4 M40i with Roof Down

BMW Z4 M40i Trunk Space

However, there are minor criticisms. The digital gauges are not the most user-friendly or visually appealing. The clutch, while improved, still has a vague engagement point and excessive springback. Price is another factor; at $77,470 as tested, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is pricier than more powerful and faster cars like the BMW M2, Chevrolet Corvette, and Ford Mustang Dark Horse.

2025 BMW Z4 M40i Features, Options, and Competition

The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i comes well-equipped as the top-tier model, including adaptive suspension, heated seats and steering wheel, and an M Sport rear differential. The base price for the four-cylinder Z4 sDrive30i starts at $54,595.

BMW offers various optional extras, adding to the cost. The Frozen Deep Green metallic paint is a $2,950 option, the Premium Package is $1,250, and even a wireless charging pad is $200. Crucially, the manual transmission is only available with the $3,500 Handschalter Package, making it an additional investment for purists.

BMW Z4 M40i Wheel Detail

BMW Z4 M40i Interior Controls

BMW Z4 M40i Badge Detail

BMW Z4 M40i Headlight Detail

In the premium, rear-wheel-drive roadster segment, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i competes with the Porsche 718 Boxster and Chevrolet Corvette Convertible. The Boxster starts at a higher price with a standard four-cylinder engine, while the Corvette Convertible, also pricier to start, lacks a manual transmission option. For those seeking a traditional front-engine roadster experience, the Z4 M40i offers a compelling choice, bridging the gap between the more affordable Mazda MX-5 and higher-priced competitors.

Fuel Efficiency of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i

While not a primary concern for sports car buyers, fuel economy is still relevant. The EPA estimates for the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i manual are 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined, surpassing both the Boxster and Corvette in efficiency. Real-world figures may vary.

EPA

Verdict: The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i – A Future Classic

Objectively, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i might not be the most rational purchase in terms of pure value. For similar money, the Porsche Boxster, arguably a more focused sports car, is attainable. However, the Z4 M40i appeals to emotion and driving passion. It’s a car bought for its subjective appeal, and in that context, its value proposition shifts.

Looking ahead, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i’s appeal is likely to grow. As electric and hybrid vehicles dominate the market, manual, rear-drive sports cars will become increasingly sought-after by enthusiasts. The Z4 M40i, with its convertible top and engaging driving dynamics, is poised to become a future classic, admired by car enthusiasts for years to come.

BMW Z4 M40i Driving at Sunset

Even in the present, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i with a manual transmission is an exceptional sports car. It offers a uniquely rewarding driving experience, arguably making it the best-driving BMW currently available, and perhaps the finest since the revered M5 CS.

2025 BMW Z4 M40i “Handschalter Package” Specs
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