RUMOR: Next-Gen U.S. Market BMW M5's WILL Have An Optional Manual Tranny

Although it seems that plenty of automakers are abandoning row-it-yourself gearboxes, it appears that BMW may not be all there yet. With the introduction of the 6-speed only 1M, at least we know M GmbH is still loyal to its adoring fanbase that prefers doing the work themselves.

But when it comes to the F10 M5, recent reports have hinted at only a dual-clutch, 7-speed transmission. However, now we're hearing conflicting stories of a manual option ONLY for the U.S. market. Think back to the E60 where BMW made sure to bring over the traditional unit.

Either way we're sure the new M5 will be a special piece; however, a 6-speed transmission would make it all the better.

With that said, does a 6-speed option matter to you when you're buying a high-performance machine?


Same German publication reports on the transmission choices for the new M5 which comes in two flavors: a 7-speed DCT gearbox and manual. Only for the US the manual gearbox will be available, same as with the E60. As with the E60 M5, the manual transmission will be available only for the U.S. market.

The dual-clutch gearbox will be available with shift paddles on the steering wheel...

[Source: BMWBlog]


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quizz - 3/25/2011 11:41:18 PM

+2 Boost

If I plan to drive this car as a commuter as well, then I'd rather not have a manual. But a weekend car, that's perfect.

uhn2000 - 3/26/2011 1:42:02 AM

+2 Boost

Long live manual cars! If this is indeed true thank you BMW!

t_bone - 3/26/2011 8:08:57 AM

-1 Boost

My last 7 cars have all been stick but now that I've driven dual clutch I will not buy another one unless it is a vintage car.

david999 - 3/28/2011 2:28:19 PM

0 Boost

Have to agree. Dual clutch is the way to go.

stone - 3/26/2011 1:16:48 PM

+4 Boost

I can't see buying an M5 without a 6MT, just doesn't seem right to me. The article is slightly incorrect, the 6MT in the previous generation M5 was added as an afterthought due to complaints from potential and long time M5 customers. The gear ratios weren't great for the V10 since the tranny was a beefed up 550i part, BMW got away with it because of the relatively low torque numbers from the V10.

Let's hope the new M5 has a 6MT properly designed for the car this time.