BMW currently offers two types of Sequential Manual Transmissions (SMG), both of which are applied electro hydraulically, electronically or driver-controlled shifting to a 6-speed manual transmission. Available on the super-performance M3 models is the very elaborate DRIVELOGIC version, which offers drivers a total of 11 shift programs. The version offered as optional equipment for Z4 roadsters is engineered for performance, convenience and driving pleasure; it offers a total of four shift programs:
• In its Automated mode, labeled D, a Normal program, and a Sport mode that executes shifts at higher engine speeds and makes the shifts themselves quicker.
• In its Manual mode, also a Normal and a Sport program; here the Sport program makes the shifts quicker, but the driver determines when the shifts occur.
In either mode, the Sport program is selected via a button on the console.
There is no clutch pedal. The driver selects the desired operating range (N, R, D, S = Sequential) with a console-mounted selector lever, and can execute manual shifts with that lever or with two “paddles†on the steering wheel. After starting the engine (which requires putting the lever in N and applying the brake pedal), the driver moves the lever to the right; this selects the Sequential mode, in which each tap of the lever or paddle(s) shifts the BMW transmission up or down one gear. Moving the lever to the right toggles the unit to its Drive mode, in which shifts occur without the driver’s intervention. To revert to Sequential shifting, the driver can toggle the lever to the right again or toggle one of the steering-wheel-mounted shift paddles. By pulling either steering wheel-mounted paddle, an upshift is executed. Pushing either paddle with your thumb produces a smooth downshift.
Though SMG does offer automated shifting, it is not meant to serve as a conventional automatic transmission; that role is played by the also available STEPTRONIC automatic. Just as with a manual transmission, power is interrupted for shifts that are very solid and happen instantly.
• It is a racing technology, pioneered in Formula 1 competition and predominant in that sport today.
• It offers a new kind of actively enjoyable driving, and fascinating new things for an enthusiastic driver to learn.
• Relative to a manual transmission, it entails no performance loss and minimal increase in fuel consumption. In fact, it can match or even exceed the performance achieved by an expert driver.
This is the new generation of transmissions we are seeing in the more expensive performance cars. Porsche pioneered this basic concept several years ago. now this system is becoming more affordable and popular. Don’t mistake the lesser cars to have the same highly technical computerized setup such as this.
While BMW is not a budget car, it surprises me at how well priced these transmissions are at GotTransmissions.com. What is more surprising is that the used transmissions all have low mileage on them and it can be proven by tracing back to the original car it’s entire history through CARFAX.com, which is one way GotTransmissions outperforms the competition. There are more reasons to do business with GotTransmissions.com. Two quick ones are: 1. Guaranteed finest quality units and 2. guaranteed best pricing with a convincing warranty plan.
