BMW Won’t Drop the Manual Z4, Thanks to Enthusiast Demand

It’s not entirely surprising that BMW is extending the Z4’s production

Despite earlier rumors that production would end in October 2025, the G29-generation BMW Z4 isn’t going anywhere just yet. That’s great news for anyone who values sharp styling, serious horsepower, a manual gearbox—and, of course, a convertible top.

According to a new report from BMW Blog, most Z4 production is now expected to end in March 2026. However, the U.S.-spec M40i model—complete with a six-speed manual transmission—will stick around a little longer.

A trusted source on the Bimmer Post forum claims that production of this M Performance version will continue through May 2026. Interestingly, that’s also when the final U.S.-bound Toyota Supra is expected to roll off the line.

The Z4’s brief extension doesn’t come as a total shock. With more enthusiasts searching for analog driving experiences, demand for the Z4 has been on the rise. BMW Blog reports that deliveries increased by 4.2% in Q1 2025 compared to the same period last year.

Motor1 also notes a 13.1% sales jump in 2024 after BMW reintroduced the manual option in the U.S. Enthusiasts clearly want rear-wheel drive and a stick shift—and the Z4 M40i is now one of the last BMWs that offers both, alongside the M2 and base trims of the M3 and M4.

What’s Next for the Z4?

Unfortunately, the Z4’s future still looks finite. As of now, there’s no successor planned for the sporty two-seater. While it continues to perform modestly in terms of sales, overall demand for convertibles is in decline, and the enthusiast market isn’t what it once was. Toyota has confirmed there will be a next-gen Supra—but BMW reportedly won’t be partnering with them on a new Z4.

So if you’re a driving purist who wants a manual Z4, now’s the time to act. Just be prepared to spend: the entry-level turbo 2.0-liter Z4 sDrive30i—automatic only—starts at $56,175. For the manual, you’ll need to spring for the M40i, with its 382-hp turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six, starting at $71,825. If you’ve got the cash, it’s well worth it. But if not, the writer of this story might be convinced to part with their manual 2007 Z4 3.0si… for a whole lot less.

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  • Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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