The manual gearboxes are on the verge of extinction in the automotive industry, however BMW seems willing to continue satisfying the desires of the most purist fans and has revealed a new six-speed manual transmission, which will be equipped in the Z4 M40i.
According to the Munich brand, the new six-speed gearbox, which is part of the “Handschalter” package, has been developed with specific modifications in the engine, including adjustments in the gear set and shafts. Additionally, there are revisions in the gear lever, as well as in the coupling with the engine, with the aim of providing drivers with a more precise mechanical connection with the new transmission.
This new package includes new springs and reconfigured dampers on the front and rear axles, as well as a revision of the variable ratio steering software, traction control, and the M Sport differential. The Z4 M40i is equipped with 19” alloy wheels on the front axle and 20” on the rear axle.
Regarding the engine, there are no changes, so the 3.0-liter inline-six turbo remains capable of delivering 340 hp between 5000 and 6500 rpm and 500 Nm of maximum torque between 1600 and 4500 rpm, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds, which is 0.1 seconds slower than the version equipped with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport automatic gearbox.
Aesthetically, the new package for the Z4 M40i also adds a matte green body color with black details, namely in the mirror caps, badges, and rear flaps, along with red brake calipers.
BMW has also announced that production of the manual Z4 will start in March and the first deliveries are scheduled for spring.
In terms of the interior, customers who choose the Z4 version with a manual gearbox can choose from five Vernasca leather tones, including Cognac with exclusive M finish in black. Additionally, a combination of black Alcantara with black Vernasca leather and blue stitching is also available.
BMW has revealed that production of the manual Z4 will start in March and the first deliveries are scheduled for spring.
