BMW News: 2024 BMW Z4 M40i Gets a Manual Transmission

[Anthony Fongaro]

After many years, auto enthusiasts in the United States can purchase a 2024 BMW Z4 with a six-speed manual. Production is scheduled for the first quarter of 2024 and no pricing has been released, but there is some speculation. BMW’s more powerful Z4 M40i will exclusively have the option of a manual gearbox. M40i Z4’s come with a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six with 328 horsepower and 369 lb-ft. 

This unique manual transmission was a collaboration between BMW and transmission company ZF. Manual-equipped Z4s get a rear axel from the BMW M240i which gives the Z4 an M Performance limited-slip differential. Other changes compared to the automatic include stiffer front anti-roll bar mounts and recalibrated adaptive dampers. Steering should feel more precise and responsive.

 Although many components are shared between the Z4 and Toyota Supra, the shift linkages are different. You’ll also find staggered wheels with 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear. For now, there are no performance stats for the manual Z4 M40i. Tests of the automatic result in a 0-60 MPH time of 3.9 seconds, so the manual should be slower. Still, the inclusion of a manual results in more driver engagement in their sports convertible.

With manuals disappearing more and more every day, it’s refreshing that BMW gave the Z4 a manual transmission. In M40i trim, the Z4 is already plenty quick. The inclusion of a manual gearbox gives those with a penchant for three-pedals a compelling vehicle. Automatic Z4 M40i models start at $67,000. Even if that price increased by $3,000, a manual Z4 would still be thousands less than an entry-level Porsche 718 Boxster at $72,000. The #savethemanuals fans can rejoice that they can get a powerful sports convertible.
 

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[G. David Felt]

?I wonder how many they will really sell; will it even be enough to justify the R&D that went into the manual tranny. I just do not see many people really wanting a manual. 

[ccap41]

I love that they're doing this. Yeah, the take rate will be low still but the people who want a manual have another option. More options are better for the consumer.

My assistant manager currently drives a manual, convertible 370Z. It's been having all sorts of problems lately and she wants to replace it (yes, she). Her problem is she wants another manual, convertible, 2 seater. She doesn't want a Mustang or Camaro(no need for a back seat and she just doesn't want either) and there just isn't much else out there anymore without spending an arm and a leg. I'd still wager this is way more than she'd like to spend but this is exactly what she's wanting. 

When her and I were talking about this a few weeks ago, my first thought was Supra or this but there was no convertible supra and no manual BMW Z. There's no convertible Nissan Z. She also just doesn't want a Miata. She's fine with small/sporty cars but the Miata is too small for her. 

[Drew Dowdell]

3 hours ago, David said:

?I wonder how many they will really sell; will it even be enough to justify the R&D that went into the manual tranny. I just do not see many people really wanting a manual. 

The R&D was virtually nill. It's an off the shelf ZF unit with a rear diff from one of their other cars.

Before this announcement, BMW was set to drop manuals entirely as it was being dropped from the 2-series.