2025 BMW Z4 M40i Manual Review: A Thrilling Open-Top Driving Experience with Aggressive Performance and Unbridled Fun

I’ve got my hands on the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i, and I’m excited to share my thoughts on this sweet ride. As I hit the highway, I couldn’t help but think, “I’ll be able to snag one of these for a steal in a few years.” But then I came to a harsh reality – this baby’s gonna be out of my price range by then, and its value will only go up. It’s got all the makings of an instant classic.

I remember when the Z4 first dropped, and people were divided. Some loved the way it drove, while others hated the way it looked. I was in the latter camp, but I’ll admit, it’s grown on me. And the cries for a manual transmission? Well, BMW finally listened, and it’s a game-changer.

The Z4 is essentially a convertible Supra, but don’t let that fool you. The powertrain is the same, but BMW’s tweaks to the steering and suspension make it feel like a different beast. And now that both the Z4 and Supra have had their mid-cycle facelifts, the differences are more noticeable than ever.

The Z4 looks…different. It’s got those iconic insectoid headlights, a long hood, and those signature kidney grilles. It’s not the prettiest car out there, but it’s unique, and I appreciate that. My test car’s Frozen Deep Green paint isn’t my favorite, but it’s still a great choice.

Let’s talk about the driving experience. This thing is a blast. The 3.0-liter inline-six produces 382 horsepower, and the eight-speed automatic transmission is silky smooth. But the real magic happens when you swap it for the six-speed manual. It’s a whole new level of engagement, and I’m not ashamed to say I got a little too excited and shifted a few gears too quickly.

The Z4 is a great driving machine, but it’s not perfect. The ride can be a bit firm, and the infotainment system is still a bit wonky. But overall, it’s a fantastic car that’s worth every penny.

So, is the 2025 BMW Z4 M40i worth the investment? Absolutely. It’s a future classic, and if you can afford it, you won’t regret it.