2025 BMW Z4

The new Handschalter (German for "hand shift") package is only available for the six-cylinder-powered M40i trim, and it's the only way to get the six-speed manual transmission. The package also adds Vernasca leather upholstery, gloss black exterior accents, staggered wheels and tires — larger and wider in back — and unique suspension and steering tuning. It's also offered in two exclusive shades of green. The stick-shift option isn't too surprising given that the Z4's mechanical twin, the Toyota GR Supra, also offers one. (The Z4 and GR Supra were co-developed by Toyota and BMW.) But BMW says it's poured effort into making the M40i's six-speed feel like those from its lauded M series. We drove a prototype of the new trim and can attest that the manual feels slick and engaging, and the car's other enhancements — computer-assisted rear shocks, meatier steering feel, grippy rear tires — make the M40i six-speed feel more playful than the others.

The Z4 is one of an endangered species. Convertibles of all stripes are disappearing, especially those with just two seats. The Mazda Miata remains a classic of style, fun and value. It's not nearly as quick as the BMW, but it's also nearly half the price. The Porsche 718 Boxster and Chevrolet Corvette are close analogs for the Z4. The Porsche is far more expensive when comparably equipped, while the Corvette — closer to the Z4's price — is a bigger, heavier car to contend with. The affordable Ford Mustang and swankier Audi A5 and S5 are four-seat alternatives, along with the new Mercedes-Benz CLE Cabriolet — doing its part to keep convertibles alive.