2008 BMW M3 M DCT Gearbox
May 31, 2007 by Alborz Fallah
UK website Autocar reports the new BMW M3 can be optioned out with a seven-speed double-clutch gearbox named, M DCT.
As much as we love the standard six-speed manual (standard) and the feel and fun factor of driving a traditional manual, the seven-speed would have to be the ideal choice.
This is a completely different system to the much criticised SMG system in the BMW M5/6. The M DCT is similar to the DSG gearboxes found in the range from Volkswagen and Audi and is made by Getrag (which has produced transmission systems for BMW for some time now).
Although everyone saw this coming, the rumours turned to fact when documents issued to BMW dealers last week confirmed the new M3’s specification. It is still not understood whether or not the BMW M3 will launch in Australia with M DCT or if that will come later in 2008.
Apart from ease of driving, the speed of a double-clutch transmission will surely reduce the BMW M3’s 0-100km time (currently quoted at 4.8secs).
Auto car says the transmission will be controlled by a combination of a shift lever and steering wheel paddles. It is expected that in time, the gearbox will find itself in the lower end of the BMW 3-series as well as the 5-series.
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LOL hmmm look whos taking on audi technology now!
*waits for lisa*
I think BMW will do a better job of the DSG,
they need to! Otherwise the RS4 will eat this thing alive.
but isnt DSG technology patented by Borwarner, so they’ll just use the same or similar box?
*just saw M division designed their own DCT*
note to self, read articles thouroughly before commenting lol
Lisa here,Hi Sam changed feet ????
I thought this would similar to the M5 7 speed already in use. Still love the 6 speed though.
I dont think the 7speed in the M5 is a DSG style is it? -
as in its not dual clutch?
You maybe right !! I guess you have checked,I am still trying to work ,bugger !!
changed feet?
well, the 7 speed thats in the m5 is an smg isnt it? if it then its not a direct shift gearbox
only cars that have direct shift so far (that i know of) are cars under the volkswagen group, which includes audi, lambo
its pretty funny that bmw had this smg system that was the first paddle shift on the market, and overrated this thing to the max. i drove my mates mustard yellow CSL and at first its really cool, then u seem to get over it and want the conventional box for more driver excitement. even ferrari have this complex ridiculous over-engineered smt system they refined for the enzo and f430 thats supposed to be the greatest thing since the wheel when it was realeased and its shifts are 150milli seconds.
then VW and audi come along with the dsg which has shifts in 8 MS (pretty much instant) and put it in the 40,000 golf GTI…………..lol
however it must be said that a dsg box is twice as heavy