The 2025 BMW Z4 delivers classic roadster thrills with a critical upgrade: an available six-speed manual transmission on the M40i trim This two-seat convertible balances daily comfort with weekend sport driving, offering 255 hp in the base sDrive30i or 382 hp in the M40i During mixed highway and canyon driving, the Z4's rear-wheel-drive chassis and power-folding soft top create an engaging experience rare among modern sports cars.
Overview: What's New for 2025
The headline change for 2025 is BMW's "Handschalter" six-speed manual gearbox, now available on the M40i Models equipped with the manual feature unique suspension tuning that sharpens steering response and overall handling The eight-speed automatic remains standard on both trims and continues to deliver smooth, quick shifts.
Beyond the transmission, the 2025 Z4 carries over its distinctive styling, retractable soft top, and driver-focused cabin. Interior appointments include standard leatherette upholstery with available Vernasca leather Understanding what MSRP means helps clarify the pricing structure below.
2025 BMW Z4 Pricing
TrimStarting MSRPEngine0-60 mphsDrive30i$54,5002.0L turbo 4-cyl5.2 secM40i$67,0003.0L turbo inline-63.9 sec
Prices as of 2025. Excludes destination fee (~$1,100)
The Z4 positions between the mechanically similar Toyota GR Supra (starting ~$56,000) and the Porsche 718 Boxster (starting ~$75,000) It also competes with the Chevrolet Corvette, which starts near $70,000 but offers superior dynamics For those considering how BMW compares to other German brands, the Z4 represents a niche segment.
Performance & Driving Experience
sDrive30i
The base 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder produces 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque Paired exclusively with the eight-speed automatic, it reaches 60 mph in 5.2 seconds EPA fuel economy ratings sit at 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway This trim suits buyers prioritizing efficiency over outright performance.
M40i
The performance-oriented M40i employs a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six generating 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque The 0-60 sprint takes just 3.9 seconds with either transmission EPA estimates drop to 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway
Standard M40i equipment includes:
Adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers
M Sport brakes
Variable sport steering
M Sport rear differential
M aerodynamics package
After driving through mixed conditions, the manual transmission's engagement and the well-tuned suspension make canyon roads particularly rewarding. The throttle response and exhaust note transform highway merges into occasions worth anticipating.
Specifications
Dimensions
SpecificationValueLength170.7 inWheelbase97.2 inWidth (with mirrors)79.7 inFront Head Room38.9 inFront Leg Room42.2 inGround Clearance4.7 inCargo Volume9.9 cu ft
Weight & Capacity
TrimCurb WeightFuel CapacitysDrive30i3,314 lbs13.7 galM40i3,543 lbs13.7 gal
The Z4 offers 9.9 cubic feet of cargo space, which Edmunds considers ample for a two-seater roadster Both trims recommend premium fuel. If you're comparing to BMW's 8 Series, the Z4 is considerably lighter and more focused.
Interior & Technology
The cabin balances sportiness with comfort. M Sport seats with deep cushions and high side bolsters hold occupants firmly during spirited driving Standard features include:
Navigation system
Bluetooth wireless technology and streaming audio
Smartphone interface (Apple CarPlay/Android Auto)
SiriusXM satellite radio
10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment
Voice recognition
Real-time traffic information
A notable limitation is the dated user experience and minimal active safety offerings Collision warning is standard, but blind-spot monitoring and other advanced driver-assist features remain optional The thick A-pillars compromise outward visibility, though large mirrors and a reversing camera compensate when parking
The soft top keeps highway cruising remarkably quiet for a convertible Around town, the Z4 absorbs rough roads better than a Porsche 718 Boxster
Ownership Costs
According to Kelley Blue Book's 5-year cost-to-own estimates:
CategorysDrive30iM40iFuel (5 yr)$7,712$8,531Maintenance$3,707$3,707Insurance$17,785$18,745Repairs$1,501$1,501Depreciation$34,206$42,145Total 5-Year Cost$83,134$96,994
These figures highlight that insurance and depreciation represent the largest ownership expenses. The M40i's higher depreciation reflects its premium pricing. Understanding BMW maintenance costs helps buyers plan long-term budgets.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Manual transmission option adds engagement and improves handling
Quiet, comfortable cabin with the top up or down
Generous cargo space for the segment
Roomy interior for a two-seater
Inline-six delivers impressive acceleration (3.9 sec 0-60)
Cons
Automatic transmission lacks excitement
Thick pillars limit visibility
Limited in-cabin storage
Dated infotainment and scant driver-assist tech
Higher depreciation than some competitors
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the 2025 BMW Z4?
Choose the Z4 sDrive30i if you:
Want roadster style with better fuel economy
Prefer a more affordable entry point
Plan primarily highway and commuter driving
Choose the Z4 M40i if you:
Prioritize driving engagement over everything else
Want the manual transmission experience
Appreciate a turbocharged inline-six character
The Z4 occupies a unique position as one of the few remaining inline-six roadsters with a manual gearbox While the Corvette offers more performance per dollar and the Boxster delivers sharper handling, neither provides the Z4's specific combination of refinement, soft-top convenience, and manual transmission availability. For buyers seeking a premium convertible that balances daily usability with weekend thrills, the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i with the six-speed manual represents a compelling choice before such options disappear from the market. Learn more about BMW Z4 generations for historical context.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the 2025 BMW Z4 a fast car?
The M40i trim accelerates from 0-60 mph in 3.9 seconds with its 382-hp turbocharged inline-six, placing it among the quickest convertibles under $70,000 The base sDrive30i reaches 60 mph in 5.2 seconds
Does the 2025 BMW Z4 come with a manual transmission?
Yes, the M40i trim now offers an optional six-speed manual called the "Handschalter," marking the first time a manual has been available on the Z4 M40i The base sDrive30i comes only with an automatic
How does the BMW Z4 compare to the Porsche 718 Boxster?
The Z4 starts around $20,000 less than the Boxster, rides more comfortably on rough roads, and offers comparable power in M40i form The Boxster provides sharper mid-engine handling and superior interior quality.
What is the fuel economy of the 2025 BMW Z4?
The sDrive30i achieves 25 mpg city and 33 mpg highway, while the M40i returns 23 mpg city and 29 mpg highway Both require premium gasoline.
References
The Drive. (2024). The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i's Manual Is, Finally, Pretty Good.
https://www.thedrive.com/car-reviews/the-2025-bmw-z4-m40is-manual-is-finally-pretty-good
Kelley Blue Book. (2025). 2025 BMW Z4 Specs, Features & Options.
https://www.kbb.com/bmw/z4/2025/specs/
Edmunds. (2025). 2025 BMW Z4 Review.
https://www.edmunds.com/bmw/z4/2025/
Motormouth. (2025). 2025 BMW Z4 Review . YouTube.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nk1xZkiTpro
BMW Blog. (2025). 2025 BMW Z4 Pricing, Specs and What's New.
https://www.bmwblog.com/2025/02/08/2025-bmw-z4-pricing-specs-and-whats-new/
J.D. Power. (2024). What It's Like to Drive the 2025 BMW Z4.
https://www.jdpower.com/cars/expert-reviews/what-it-is-like-to-drive-the-2025-bmw-z4
Carwow. (2025). BMW Z4 Review 2025.
https://www.carwow.co.uk/bmw/z4