The 2025 BMW Z4 M40i is a driver’s delight. With its new optional six-speed manual transmission installed, the rear-wheel-drive, two-seat roadster is keen for daily transportation. But it’s at its best on a winding country road, with the top down. It’s an automotive stress deflator.

There’s nothing wrong with the other available trim, the sDrive30i. It has a turbocharged 2.0-liter, four-cylinder engine producing 255 horsepower and an eight-speed automatic transmission. Its performance is satisfying. But the M40i, featuring a 3.0-liter six-cylinder engine with 382 horsepower, represents BMW’s heritage sportiness.

The Z4 is not a cavernous sedan for a family vacation. It’s a two-seat sports car, with tight seating, limited trunk space and a low-to-the-ground feel inherent to the convertible persona.

That said, the roadster has more comfort than its competitors. The seats don’t feel cramped, and shifting is accomplished without awkward arm positioning. Getting in and out of the low-slung vehicle might not be joyous, but the result is the enjoyment of the drive.

BMW vehicles are equipped with hefty lists of standard features. The Z4 M40i gets much of the same equipment as the sDrive 30i, heated power-adjustable seats to a 10.25-inch infotainment screen. A 10-speaker audio system and forward collision mitigation are also standard; the latter warns the driver of an impending collision and applies the brakes in certain scenarios. Wired Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also in the standard equipment mix with two USB charge ports. Technology upgrades include a wireless charging pad, a head-up display and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system.

The power-folding fabric convertible top works quickly via the lever to the right of the center console. The top lowers and rises in less than 15 seconds.

Beyond its more powerful engine, the M40i adds keyless entry, a heated steering wheel and lumbar adjustments for the front seats.

Several additional packages and stand-alone extras vault the M40i into another level of attractiveness, from additional safety to convenience.

The Premium Package ($1,250) is only available in the M40i and it includes remote engine ignition, ambient lighting, a head-up display and an automated parking system. A Harmon Kardon surround sound audio adds $750 and a Shadowline Package ($550) features adaptive full LED lights.

Upscale items fill a Handschalter (“hand shift” in German) manual trim package ($3,500). It gives the roadster handsome touches, from extender Shadowline black high-gloss exterior trim pieces to red brake calipers and dark badging.

The five available Vernasca leather upholstery colors complement several exterior M40i color choices, including BMW Individual Frozen Deep Green metallic, priced at $2,950. It’s fluorescent and widely changes colors in varying weather conditions.

With all of its top-line equipment and stunning looks, The Z4 M40i maintains the carmaker’s enduring legacy via its superior drive. The car is quiet—albeit quieter with the top up, a common trait among convertibles.

While convertible vehicles with manual transmission aren’t common, the Z4 M40i has a set of competitors, including the Porsche 718 Boxster, Chevrolet Corvette, Mazda Miata and Ford Mustang. Every vehicle in the group is uniquely handsome with specific merits.

The Z4 M40i, like all BMWs, is not a bargain. It’s an enduring German sports car for those who like to shift through gears. It reinforces, in a good way, the adage of getting what you pay for.

Facts & figures

Acceleration: 0-60 mph, 3.9 seconds

Airbags: 6

Gas mileage: 23 mpg city, 31 mpg hwy

Horsepower: 382

Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price: $66,450

Price as tested: $77,470

Manufacturer’s website: bmwusa.com

Warranty: Bumper-to-bumper, 4 years/50,000 miles; Powertrain, 4 years/50,000 miles; Maintenance, 3 years/36,000 miles; Corrosion, 12 years, unlimited miles; Roadside assistance, 4 years/unlimited miles