In the United States, the 2024 BMW Z4 is set to introduce a significant addition – a manual transmission option. While the current BMW Z4 has offered a manual gearbox in other regions for an extended period, it is now making its debut in the U.S. market.
Autoblog, after conducting a test drive of a prototype, disclosed that the upcoming 2024 Z4 will offer a 6-speed manual transmission as an alternative to the standard 8-speed automatic. However, this manual option will be exclusive to the Z4 M40i variant.
The 6-speed manual transmission is sourced from ZF, the same supplier responsible for the 6-speed manual in the related Toyota Supra. Nonetheless, BMW has meticulously fine-tuned this transmission specifically for use in the Z4, mirroring Toyota’s approach in optimizing the transmission for the Supra.
Under the hood, the Z4 M40i is equipped with a robust turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine, producing an impressive 382 horsepower. On the other hand, the Z4 sDrive30i, another trim level available in the U.S., retains the 8-speed automatic transmission and is powered by a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine generating 255 horsepower.
Furthermore, the 2024 Z4 M40i is expected to receive various performance enhancements. These include a revised chassis setup with larger 19-inch wheels up front and 20-inch wheels at the rear, an active differential, stiffer anti-roll bars, recalibrated steering, and adaptive damping systems. The new damping system is engineered to offer a broader performance range, allowing drivers to choose between comfort and sport settings.
It’s worth noting that the current BMW Z4, introduced to the U.S. market in 2020, received minor updates in 2023, which included subtle styling revisions and an expanded range of available colors.
While BMW has maintained manual transmissions in select models, particularly those from its M division, the automaker is signaling a shift away from manuals. According to a senior BMW executive, the preference is leaning towards automatic transmissions, which are deemed better suited for electrified vehicles, suggesting a changing landscape in the automotive industry.
Table of Contents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Manual Transmission
Can I get a manual transmission in the 2024 BMW Z4 in the United States?
Yes, the 2024 BMW Z4 will offer a 6-speed manual transmission option in the United States, specifically on the Z4 M40i grade.
Who supplies the manual transmission for the 2024 BMW Z4?
The 6-speed manual transmission for the 2024 Z4 is sourced from ZF, the same supplier responsible for the manual transmission in the Toyota Supra. However, BMW has fine-tuned this transmission for use in the Z4.
What are the engine options for the 2024 BMW Z4?
The Z4 M40i variant is powered by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-6 engine producing 382 horsepower. Additionally, there’s a Z4 sDrive30i in the U.S. with a 2.0-liter turbo-4 engine generating 255 horsepower, and it exclusively comes with the 8-speed automatic transmission.
What performance enhancements are expected for the 2024 Z4 M40i?
The 2024 Z4 M40i is anticipated to receive various performance upgrades, including a revised chassis setup with larger wheels, an active differential, stiffer anti-roll bars, recalibrated steering, and adaptive damping systems. These improvements aim to provide a wider performance range from comfort to sport settings.
Is BMW phasing out manual transmissions?
While BMW continues to offer manual transmissions in select models, there is a shift towards automatic transmissions, according to a senior BMW executive. This shift is driven by the belief that automatic transmissions are better suited for electrified vehicles, reflecting a broader industry trend.
More about Manual Transmission
- Autoblog: 2024 BMW Z4 gains manual transmission in the U.S.
- BMW USA Official Website
- ZF Group Official Website
- Toyota Supra Information
- 2024 BMW Z4 M40i Overview
4 comments
Automatics for electrics, BMW makin’ a shift, whoa!
BMW Z4 goin’ manual in US – cool stuff, dudes!
M40i Z4 with big wheels, now we’re talkin’ speed!
Bimmer’s ditchin’ duh manual, say it ain’t so!