2024 BMW Z4 sDrive30i 8AT RWD (258 HP)

Vehicle Overview

BMW listened to its customers and introduced a six-speed manual version for the 2025 Z4 M40i. Besides the new transmission, the car also came with several other improvements.

When the German automaker launched the third generation of the Z4 in 2018, customers loved it. Even though it was soon obvious that the car shared its underpinnings with the Toyota Supra J29 (the fifth generation), it was tuned for long and pleasant drives. While it didn’t lack the performance that made the Z4 famous worldwide, it wasn’t as hard-core as its Japanese cousin. In addition, it was available with a six-speed manual for selected countries only and with a 2.0-liter inline-four engine. Those who opted for the higher-powered three-liter turbocharged powerplant had to rely only on the eight-speed automatic version. Surprisingly, BMW re-considered its plans, and in 2024, it launched the Z4 with the straight-six powerplant paired with a six-speed manual. But that was just part of the upgrade. The automaker understood that those customers who craved a three-pedal setup wanted more than just to shift gears manually; they wanted a better-handling vehicle. Last but not least, the automaker named this three-pedal Z4 as the Pure Impulse edition.

The 2025 Z4 M40i had a revised front fascia. Its kidney grille sported a hexagonal pattern, while previously, it had a chain-like trim with a vertical layout. On the lower bumper, the automaker installed an additional air intake with an angular design flanked by a pair of side scoops that cooled the front brakes and ensured an air curtain around the bodywork, lowering the drag coefficient.

From its profile, the Z4 M40i Pure Impulse edition boasted its standard Shadowline trims, adding black exclusive model badging on the front fenders, black door mirror caps, and red M-brake calipers. In addition, the car sat on newly designed M light-alloy wheels with 19 inches up front and 20 inches in the back. Furthermore, the automaker added black badges on the trunk lid at the back. Under the bumper, the 2025 Z4 M40i Pure Impulse edition sported quad exhausts that flanked a rear diffuser.

Inside, the two-seat roadster featured high-bolstered sports seats made to keep their occupants in place during high-speed cornering maneuvers. Between them, on the center tunnel, BMW installed the new gear stick adorned by M badging. The Pure Impulse edition was available with Vernasca leather upholstery in Cognac with black M decorations.

However, the automaker wanted to provide customers with a better driving experience. As a result, besides the six-speed automatic gearbox, BMW also improved the suspension setup. Furthermore, it re-calibrated the M-differential. Even though the car wasn’t as quick in the 0-100 kph (0-62 mph) sprint as its eight-speed automatic brother, it promised a better experience on a twisty road.