Review – BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse Edition (2024)

Not just any BMW Z4 with a manual transmission

BMW has not made it easy on itself.
Because, of course, you can very simply pair a six-speed manual transmission with the famous blown six-in-line.
Some screwing and done.
So, we have a special edition.
But no, BMW went much further.
For example, the Pure Impulse Edition of the BMW Z4 M40i also has a specifically tuned suspension and M alloy wheels measuring 19 inches in the front and 20 inches in the rear.
So BMW really went all out.

Popular roadster, that BMW Z4

By the way, of the four-in-line gasoline engine in the BMW Z4, do not expect a manual transmission version.
Until now, almost half of German buyers chose the top version of the BMW Z4.
Reason enough, then, to pair that very six-cylinder with a manual transmission.
Toyota did exactly the same with the GR Supra 3.0 – the little brother of the BMW Z4.
Only the strongest powertrain in that Japanese car also received a manual transmission as an option.
The main markets for the current generation BMW Z4 are Germany, followed by the U.S., China, Great Britain and Japan.
So since there is quite a market for a top-of-the-line Z4 with a manual transmission, BMW decided to develop such a version.

Powertrain BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse Edition

But what exactly is under the hood of the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse Edition?
The 3.0-liter engine in the BMW Z4 M40i uses M TwinPower Turbo technology.
Other features of this unctuous powertrain include a forged crankshaft, balanced pistons and a water-cooled exhaust manifold integrated into the cylinder head.
The block also has High Precision Injection at pressures up to 350 bar, Valvetronic variable valve timing and dual VANOS: fully variable camshaft timing. The result? As much as 250 kW (340 hp) between 5,000 and 6,500 rpm and an even more impressive engine torque of 500 Nm between 1,600 and 4,500 rpm.

Wonderful soundtrack

A delicious powerhouse in other words.
Combined with the 6-speed manual transmission, the BMW Z4 M40i accelerates from standstill to 100 km/h in just 4.6 seconds.
The 8-speed Steptronic Sport transmission is just 0.1 second faster.
A unique feature of the six-speed manual transmission is the rev-matching function.
During downshifts, the system automatically spools the engine up to the perfect RPM.
It drives wonderfully.
The shift feel is delightful, but also requires a firm hand.
The delicious click-clack effect is missing, but the transmission shifts nicely direct and with a lot of feeling.
In addition, you may enjoy a wonderful soundtrack.
With the roof open, it’s even more fun.
Then the six-in-line bubbles nicely via the sports exhaust system.
Downshifting is a treat, especially if you shift from five, four, three and two.
Vrom, bop bop, vroem, paf paf, enjoy!
Every time.

Equipment BMW Z4 M40i

The BMW Z4 M40i comes standard with Variable Sport Steering, M Sport brake system and an M Sport differential, along with an adaptive M suspension with electronically controlled dampers.
Furthermore, the Pure Impulse also features customized front and rear auxiliary springs.
Up front, BMW also installs a specially reinforced stabilizer bar clamp, while the mapping for the electronic control of the rear dampers and the software for the Variable Sport Steering have been modified.
All this should ensure extra sharp handling.
You can tell from everything that BMW has the purist in mind with this Impulse Edition.

Frozen Deep Green metallic

In addition, the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse Edition is available in unique colors.
Check, for example, Frozen Deep Green metallic, a new color for Europe.
It looks great on him, but you have to love cleaning.
This is because dirt and dust are extra quickly visible on the matte paint.
Red brake calipers from the M Sport brake system add to its appeal.
In the interior, of course, the gearshift for the six-speed manual transmission stands out.
The interior otherwise looks sporty.
Vernasca leather upholstery in Cognac with black M piping – also exclusive to the BMW Z4 M40i Pure Impulse – completes the party.

Steering in this BMW Z4

Keep in mind, though, that driving assistance systems come off with the necessary bells and whistles.
They can all be turned off, which is nice when you speed up on a nice steerable road.
Because this BMW is not averse to steering.
It is done with a lot of feeling and feedback.
In some respects the car feels a bit heavy, especially when there are some bumps in a curve.
Fortunately, the suspension is perfectly tuned to those pounds so you can actually attack corners.
Cornering is especially delightful due to the abundance of torque.
Pulling the powerplant through toward 7,000 rpm is the icing on the cake.

The nicest Z4

Cheap is not the BMW Z4 M40i Pure lmpulse.
This test car has a price tag of no less than 118,490 euros.
Well, the most fun Z4 of the moment has to cost something.
But then you get something, a car for purists that sits, drives and sounds great.
Enjoy this powertrain, but prefer a fixed roof?
Then take the Toyota GR Supra with manual transmission.