The BMW Z4 M40i

The new BMW Z4 M40i is anything but basic transportation. Not even close. A two-seater in the grand sense, it will cause you to think before deciding which car you are taking on that long road trip. Do I pack everything and take three large suitcases in the back of the family SUV? Or do I put what I need in a Ziplock bag and make do with that? Decisions, decisions, what do we do? Hopefully, we here at Napleton News can help you figure it out.

M Power under the hood.

BMW has always been known for their amazing engines. The Z4 is no exception and even goes a bit further by offering a choice between two. It shares much of its powertrain cues with the Toyota GR Supra. The car is a joint venture with the Japanese automaker, which builds the GR Supra alongside the Z4 M40i in the same Austrian factory. Powering both is a stellar 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine producing 382 horsepower and 368 lb-ft of torque. An 8-speed automatic transmission is standard and for 2025 a six-speed manual (“handschalter,” German for hand shift) is available as an option. The Z4 includes staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear tires and a newly calibrated adaptive suspension.

A secondary engine is available in the form of the Z4 sDrive 30i. Powered by a turbocharged, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, it delivers 255 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque. It too, mates to an 8-speed automatic transmission. All Z4 models are rear-drive only.

Outside looks.

In typical sports roadster fashion, the BMW Z4 M40i offers classic proportions of a long nose, short tail vehicle. This setup allows perfect weight balance once the occupants are inside. The Z4 is unique because it is only offered in ragtop form. But what a ragtop it is! Deploying in around 20 seconds, you can operate it at speeds up to 30 mph.

It features the traditional kidney bean grille sitting atop a massive air intake below the front bumper. Slitty headlight lenses light the way ahead. There are other features too, including functional side vents,

A look inside.

 

Trust us: the best seat in the house is behind the wheel. That’s where everything is right with the world, as far as the ultimate driving machine is concerned. An adjustable, telescoping steering wheel allows perfect placement, and the heating function is a welcome feeling on a cold day.

The gearshift lever is snicky-smooth and encourages fun, aggressive driving. The Z4 seating is comfortable and holds you firmly in place while negotiating the twisties, which you most certainly will. The interior is one that you will never want to leave…once you have managed to get yourself inside.

Behind the wheel.

It’s a thrill a minute behind the wheel of the BMW Z4 M40i. Buckle in, get comfy, adjust for the third pedal and you’ll be ready to go. First gear is easy enough to get going but quickly gives way to second. Third seems a good place to navigate tight left and righthanders. Fourth through six are gravy.

Acceleration is impressive. The speed is enhanced because of the petite size of the car. It’s a ride whose throttle speaks with authority when you step on it. Should you want to test things, we saw zero-to-60 in 3.9 seconds. Back in the day, those were supercar numbers.

The Z4’s handling and braking came on as we hoped, meaning that both worked as we expected. The car seemed to egg us on through a turn, as though there was someone in our ear telling us to go a little faster.

We seriously think there was.

2025 BMW Z4 M40i

 

2025 BMW Z4 M40i RWD Specifications
Engine Type	3.0-liter Turbocharged inline-6 cylinder engine
Horsepower	382 hp @ 6,500 rpm
Torque	369 lb-ft @ 1,800 rpm
Transmission	6-speed manual
EPA Fuel Economy (Combined/City/Hwy)	22/19/26 mpg
Suspension F/R	McPherson Struts/Multilink
Turning Circle	33.1 ft.
Also Available	Various trims, 2.0-liter four cylinder engine
Specs
Warranty	4 years/50,000 miles
Drivetrain Warranty	4 years/50,000 miles
NHTSA Safety Rating	Not Rated
Max Seating Capacity	2 passengers
Wheelbase	97.2 inches
Overall Length	170.7 inches
Width	73.4 inches
Height	51.4 inches
Trunk Space	9.9 Cubic Feet
Headroom, 1st	38.9 inches
Shoulder room, 1st row	54.3 inches