The BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter.
First deliveries starting in spring 2024
Introducing the BMW Z4 Handschalter, a new arrival that exemplifies exhilarating open-top driving pleasure. For the first time, the range topping BMW Z4 M40i (fuel consumption combined: 34.0 – 35.3 mpg; CO2 emissions combined: 198 – 191 g/km in WLTP cycle) will be available with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The BMW roadster: giving a successful tradition a modern twist.
Refined chassis tuning, mixed-size wheels for the first time on the BMW Z4.
Compact proportions, minimised weight, a low centre of gravity and virtually perfect 50:50 weight distribution are the defining elements of a BMW Z4 vehicle concept honed precisely to deliver agility and dynamic performance. The extremely rigid body and chassis structure and excellent aerodynamic attributes also help to mould the sports car character of the Z4. The roadster’s chassis design, combining a double-joint spring strut front axle with a five-link rear axle, produces a compelling and harmonious blend of dynamism and ride comfort.
Exclusive interior appointments for the Handschalter Pack .
The Handschalter Pack includes M-specific design features for the interior supplemented by a number of exclusive details. For instance, there is an M gearshift lever with model-specific sleeve on the centre console that is used to control the special model’s six-speed manual gearbox. The Vernasca leather trim in Cognac with black M piping – also exclusive to the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse – exudes a blend of sumptuous elegance and sporting flair. It is complemented by interior trim strips in Black high-gloss.
Handschalter Pack with individual exterior features.
The Handschalter Pack also adds individual design features to the exterior of the BMW Z4 M40i that give the roadster a sharper look that underlines its more rounded sports car character, while also complementing the familiar M exterior features for optimising airflow and aerodynamic balance. It includes the M High-gloss Shadowline trim with extended features as well as the exterior mirror caps painted in Black high-gloss, specially designed flaps for streamlining the airflow in the area around the rear wheel arches and red brake callipers for the M Sport brakes.
A new exterior colour also forms part of the Handschalter Pack’s specification, Frozen Deep Green metallic finish, exclusively available in the Z4 family on this model.
Exclusive combination: six cylinders and a six-speed manual gearbox.
The pairing of a straight-six engine with a six-speed manual gearbox means the new BMW Z4 M40i represents a unique proposition in this segment – and also a highly exclusive set-up within the BMW product portfolio. In fact, the only models in the current range available with this drive configuration are high-performance sports cars from BMW M GmbH. But now a BMW M Performance model is set to join them with the arrival of the BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter.
The 3.0-litre unit in the BMW Z4 M40i owes its familiar free-revving performance, instantaneous power delivery and silky smoothness to the latest M TwinPower Turbo technology. The engine’s special characteristics include a forged crankshaft, weight-optimised pistons and a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head. A twin-scroll turbocharger supplies the six combustion chambers with compressed air, whose temperature is regulated by means of an indirect intercooler. The package of drive unit technologies also comprises High Precision Injection operating at pressures up to 350 bar, VALVETRONIC variable valve timing and Double-VANOS fully variable camshaft timing.
With peak torque of 500 Nm (369 lb-ft) that can be summoned between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm, the engine generates compelling pulling power. Its maximum output of hp is on tap from 5,000 – 6,500 rpm.
In this special model, the task of transmitting power to the road is handled by a six-speed manual gearbox developed exclusively for the BMW Z4 M40i. It is a BMW modular transmission incorporating M-specific components for the gear set and shafts that has been modified for the straight-six engine’s output. The outer shift mechanism, comprising the shift lever, its guide and the connection to the transmission, has likewise been custom made for the BMW Z4 M40i Handschalter Pack – and delivers the unrivalled shift feel for which BMW models are renowned. The direct flow of power between engine and transmission combined with the driver’s central involvement in gear changes reinforces the emotional bond between driver and vehicle. A precisely defined shift action enables the gears to be changed swiftly and intuitively.
When power is relayed via the six-speed manual gearbox, the six-cylinder in-line engine propels the BMW Z4 M40i to 62 mph from rest in 4.6 seconds. The sprint from 0 to 62 mph takes 4.5 seconds on models with the eight-speed Steptronic Sport transmission. Although by default the Steptronic Sport transmission will select the gears automatically, it also lets the driver control gear selection manually if desired. The shift paddles on the steering wheel are designed to allow spontaneous interaction with the drive system.