- This is the new Z4 roadster
- Handschalter Pack includes manual ‘box
- No, really – it’s changed since 2019
BMW has updated the Z4. But, as you’ve probably clocked by now, you may be here all day and not spot any differences – it took us a long time just looking at the pictures. But BMW says it has been, with a raft of mini updates dotted in and around its drop top including a manual gearbox as part of the Z4’s new Handschalter Pack.
In Handschalter (literally hand switch) spec, BMW pairs the Z4 M40i’s in-line, six-cylinder engine with a manual gearbox for the first time. The package also includes new light-alloy wheels – 19 inches at the front and 20 at the rear.
To complete the car’s sporty flavour, a new Frozen Deep Green metallic paint job has been thrown in that’s exclusive to this model in the Z4 family and evokes pure British racing heritage.
What else do we know about the Handschalter Pack?
Upgrades extend to the M40i’s interior too, and not just in the form of a gear stick to the driver’s side.
Occupants won’t forget they’re in a relative of the M family as the Handschalter cabin features a number of M-themed details including black M upholstery piping and an M gear stick. For a touch of elegance, the pack includes a Vernasca leather trim in Cognac that’s exclusive to the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse.
Deliveries are expected to start in spring 2024.
What do I need to know about the regular Z4?
Okay, here goes. The auto Z4s will now only be available in either M Sport or M Performance spec, complete with a (very) mildly redesigned set of bumpers and new motif in the grille. New alloy wheel designs are available, as are three new colours. There’s also the new M Shadowline package that darkens the headlights and pairs with some black trimmings and black wheels.
And that’s about it.
Remind me of the engines in the UK…
The UK only gets two engines now: the sDrive20i and the M40i (with the middling sDrive30i model being killed off). The sDrive20i is a 2.0-litre four-cylinder developing 194bhp, good for a 6.6sec 0-62mph sprint. The M40i, meanwhile, has a 335bhp straight-six, meaning a potent 0-62mph launch time of just 4.5 seconds. Both are mated to an eight-speed auto as standard (models on the Continent and beyond can be fitted with a manual in certain markets) and send all their power to the rears.
How much?
You can order a new Z4 now, and prices start from £43,795 for the sDrive20i. The hotter M40i starts from £55,570 while the Handschalter M40i starts from £60,675.