Displaying that BMW nonetheless provides a shift, the Z4 M40i lastly will get a much-deserved handbook gearbox for the 2025 mannequin yr. Forward of its imminent market launch, the luxury roadster returns in a batch of contemporary photographs highlighting the important change applied contained in the cabin. Nonetheless rocking the previous-generation iDrive and bodily buttons, the M Efficiency open-top sports activities automobile will get a stick shift accompanied by a clutch pedal.

Seeing as how rowing your personal gears is unfortunately a dying artwork, we’re one of many final BMW vehicles to supply a handbook transmission. The 6MT’s gradual demise is not only as a result of clients are inclined to want the comfort of an computerized. Electrification is inevitable, forcing the engineers to focus solely on two pedals. As driver help and security techniques get extra refined, there’s an elevated want for ATs to make all of the software program and {hardware} work at their full potential.

However we could also be getting forward of ourselves. BMW shouldn’t be solely launching a six-speed Z4 M40i however it’s additionally protecting the clutch pedal within the M2 in addition to the bottom M3 and M4. The 2025MY roadster is happening sale quickly and also you’ll be paying an additional $3,500 over the equal convertible with the eight-speed computerized transmission. If that sounds a bit steep, there are extra goodies past the do-it-yourself gearbox.

The so-called Handschalter (German for “hand shift”) package deal will get you staggered wheels with a brand new two-tone set measuring 19 inches entrance and 20 inches rear. To sweeten the pot, the Z4 M40i on this specification advantages from bespoke chassis tuning, a strengthened entrance anti-roll bar clamp, retuned rear dampers, and new software program for the variable steering system.

The automobile highlighted right here by BMW USA has Vernasca leather-based upholstery with a Cognac look and black M piping mixed with a shiny black trim. There are 4 different shades of this leather-based, whereas the San Remo Inexperienced metallic exterior paint is just provided on the Z4 M40i with a handbook as a no-cost possibility. Must you wish to spend extra, the Particular person Frozen Deep Inexperienced goes to price $2,950. No matter physique shade, all vehicles come fitted with the Prolonged Shadowline trim that blacks out sure parts.

We’re anticipating the six-speed handbook to be out there for simply two years since sources near BMW declare the G29 will exit of manufacturing in March 2026.

[Photos: BMW USA]