While steering wheel transmission buttons are hardly new in high-end sport coupes and sedans, the BMW system is a sequential manual system, similar to Ferrari''s F1 transmission, rather than an automatic system such as Porsche''s Tiptronic, that incorporates a performance robbing torque converter. What does this mean? Rather than going into specific details, gear changes occur much faster than traditional manual transmissions - its quickest shifts occur in a mere 80 milliseconds - without the necessity of depressing the clutch or possibility of missing a shift. Also, when downshifting, the engine will automatically double-declutch.
Depending on your mood, drivelogic lets you match the shift dynamics to six different programs, ranging from the most conservative S1 mode, to an extremely aggressive S5.
Don''t choose S6 unless you''ve taken an advanced driving course, as the dynamic stability control system is deactivated and gear change times match those of a true racecar.
It''s hard to say where BMW will take the M3 in the near future? Rumors of a much more powerful V8 Audi S4 will probably provide BMW with all the motivation it needs to follow through with its own V8 M3. Word has it the M5 will get a V10 approaching 500-hp when it is redesigned, which would leave a perfectly good 400-hp V8 with no home. But for now, why speculate? The current M3 is one of the best performing vehicles available at any price, plus it has room for four and an adequately sized trunk. What more could any self-respecting automotive enthusiast want? Hmmm... I''d better not ask that question again.