BMW Z4 With Manual Transmission Supposedly On the Way

It appears the BMW Z4 is likely to embrace a manual transmission, as spotted by Motor.es during testing of a pre-LCI M40i model. Their keen ears caught the unmistakable sound of a manual gearchange, fueling speculation about a three-pedal option for the roadster.

Introduced in 2018, the third-generation Z4 is now approaching its sixth year in production, which is relatively old in the realm of BMW models. 

Speculations align with reports indicating the Z4 will share the same six-speed manual transmission as the Supra, given that both models utilize the 3.0-liter inline-six engine and are produced on the same manufacturing line by Magna-Steyr. Adding to the credibility, an insider from BMW, ynguldyn, has mentioned that the manual-equipped Z4 is set to enter production by March 2024. 

Sales figures from BMW North America for the third quarter of 2023 reveal a decline in Z4 sales by 26% compared to the previous year, with only 331 units sold. Should the manual Z4 become a reality, it is expected to be paired with the turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six B58 motor, boasting 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque.

Although the manual variant might sacrifice some acceleration speed, enthusiasts are likely to relish the joy of manually shifting gears.