The BMW Z4 2.5i was already available when the new BMW Z4 Series E85 was launched. It stood somewhat in the shadow of the model with displacement of 3 litres but the automobile still had a very sporty driving style powered by its inline, six-cylinder engine. Differences tended to be found in the area of exclusive equipment. In the course of the production run lasting six years, the BMW Z4 2.5i underwent a visual and technical revision in 2006, involving the installation of a new engine. From 2006, the BMW Z4 2.5i was joined by an even more athletic version in the form of the BMW Z4 2.5si.