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The BMW Z4’s manual transmission has become a surprising star among American enthusiasts. After nearly five years of exclusivity in Europe, the six-speed option finally made its way stateside last year, and the response was overwhelmingly positive. In 2024, 65 percent of Z4 buyers in the US opted for the manual version, cementing its place as a driver’s favourite.
BMW sold just over 2,100 Z4s in the US in 2024, with nearly 1,400 of them featuring the six-speed manual. This strong preference for the manual boosted overall sales, marking a 13.1 percent increase from 2023. For a low-volume sports car, such growth speaks volumes about the appetite for an engaging driving experience. BMW attributes this surge directly to the availability of the manual option, highlighting a “wonderfully enthusiastic” response from buyers.
The six-speed Z4 is offered exclusively with the M40i trim, which boasts a turbocharged 3.0-litre inline-six engine delivering 382 horsepower. This robust setup offers a dynamic pairing for the manual gearbox, creating a thrilling package that appeals to purists. In contrast, while capable, the base Z4’s four-cylinder engine is only available with an automatic transmission, making the M40i the go-to choice for those who crave a hands-on connection to their car.
Interestingly, this enthusiasm for manuals mirrors the trend seen in the Toyota Supra, a close relative of the Z4. Toyota reported an identical 65 percent manual take rate for the Supra in 2024, up significantly from the previous year. The parallel success of both models underscores a wider resurgence of interest in manual transmissions among enthusiasts.
The Z4’s manual success aligns with broader trends within the BMW lineup. While other models like the M2 have seen nearly half of buyers choosing a manual, options such as the M3 and M4 haven’t fared as well, with smaller take rates in 2024. Still, the BMW Z4 is a testament to the enduring appeal of a traditional six-speed gearbox and its ability to breathe new life into a modern sports car.
