BMW revealed a few changes for the 2023 Z4 roadster, the most notable of which are new colors (purple!) and more standard features. Otherwise, the Z4 remains substantially unchanged, which may disappoint some individuals, particularly those looking for a manual transmission.
Why would the Z4 suddenly have a manual transmission option? Toyota is the obvious choice. The BMW Z4 and Toyota GR Supra are fraternal twins created in collaboration between German and Japanese manufacturers. They share the bulk of their mechanical components, such as engines and gearboxes. However, while the six-cylinder 2023 Supra may now be chosen with a six-speed manual transmission, the revised Z4 retains just an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The automatic gearbox is standard on both engines: the 2.0-liter turbo I4 in the Z4 sDrive30i and the 3.0-liter turbo I6 in the Z4 M40i. The former produces 255 horsepower and 295 pound-feet of torque, while the latter produces 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque. Both versions are equipped with 18-inch wheels as standard, although new 19-inch alternatives are also available.
What else has changed? The previously optional M Sport pack, which comprises reworked front air intakes, new side sills, and a more strongly sculpted rear apron, is now standard on the Z4 sDrive30i. Inside, the 30i boasts sports seats, a leather steering wheel, and plenty of M emblems.
The basic Z4 sDrive30i is also more costly in 2023 due to the now standard M Sport kit: $53,795 plus $995 for destination, a $1,300 increase over the 2022 model. Meanwhile, the 2023 Z4 M40i begins at $66,295 including destination, which is the same as previously. The upgraded 2023 models are set to hit the market in November.
