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If you’ve never experienced the joy of driving a manual, here’s my advice: go learn. Few driving experiences compare to the thrill of shifting gears yourself—a feeling that every true car enthusiast should embrace. Behind the wheel of the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i ‘Handschalter’ (German for “hand shift”), that sensation reaches its pinnacle.
A Drive to Remember
Equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission, the Z4 M40i redefines open-top driving. I took this stunning roadster along California’s iconic CA-1, through Carmel-by-the-Sea, and into the breathtaking landscapes of Andrew Molera State Park and Pfeiffer Beach. The redwoods towered above, the ocean breeze filled the cabin, and the car’s symphony of performance kept me immersed in every moment.
At the heart of this exhilarating machine lies BMW’s 382-hp TwinPower Turbo inline 6-cylinder engine, perfectly paired with the manual gearbox. Together, they deliver a 0-60 mph sprint in just 4.2 seconds and an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. But numbers aside, the Z4 M40i’s appeal is in the drive itself—raw, visceral, and utterly captivating.
Precision in Every Shift
The tactile control offered by the 6-speed manual enhances the Z4 M40i’s dynamic capabilities. Each gear change feels intuitive, offering a connection to the car that modern automatics often miss. On the winding roads, the roadster came alive—confidently attacking corners with power and precision, all while offering the kind of joy only a manual can provide. Top-down, engine roaring, and wind in my hair, this drive was pure magic.
Engineering Excellence
The Z4 M40i is packed with standard features, regardless of gearbox choice:
- Variable Sport Steering
- M Sport Brakes
- M Sport Differential
- Adaptive M Suspension with electronically controlled dampers
But choosing the manual gearbox brings something extra. Unique chassis tuning sharpens responses, offering unparalleled precision and refinement. Enhancements include specially designed auxiliary springs at the front and rear, a reinforced front anti-roll bar, recalibrated electronic dampers, and updated variable sport steering software. These adjustments create a uniquely dynamic and balanced ride.
The Z4 M40i Handschalter proves that driving pleasure isn’t just about speed—it’s about the connection between driver and machine. For those ready to experience the ultimate roadster, the Z4 M40i is waiting.
Photography: David Lewis Taylor