SMALL DIMENSIONS. ENORMOUS DRIVING PLEASURE.

The 6-speed or 8-speed Automatic Transmission Steptronic sets new benchmarks in comfort and dynamic performance and is a key element of BMW EfficientDynamics. The particularly fine increments between gears facilitate optimum power delivery at all speeds. This reduces fuel consumption significantly, while allowing the driver to enjoy increased sportiness and dynamic performance. At high speeds in particular, the additional gears reduce engine speed, in turn decreasing both fuel consumption and engine noise.
The converter clutch also helps – even if the car is in manual mode. In combination with the fast engine speed transitions and the precise transmission tuning, it provides a very high level of shifting comfort and reduces noise considerably.

The 8-speed Sport Transmission Steptronic makes changing gears exceptionally pleasant thanks to fast engine speed transitions and shorter shift times. It adapts to suit individual driving styles. It is perfect for everything from comfortable cruising through to a very dynamic drive. In addition to automatic gear selection, it is of course possible to shift gears manually at any time. This is done using the gear lever, or the gearshift paddles on the Sport leather steering wheel or M leather steering wheel.
In Sport mode, the gear shifts are configured for maximum performance. Acceleration is optimised due to very finely tuned gradation of the eight gears. What is more, the engine is continually optimised to guarantee the best possible performance and driving characteristics. Maximum acceleration from a standing start is made possible by Launch Control. This feature shifts automatically in order to make use of the engine's optimum rpm range. Additional sport-oriented shift programmes guarantee an exceptionally dynamic driving experience, with shorter shift and reaction times and the capacity for multiple downshifts.

Launch Control allows a warm engine to achieve maximum acceleration from a standing start. The Sport Transmission Steptronic constantly sets the gearshift points so that when shifting up, the next optimal engine speed is available. This is a feature which is destined to delight drivers with dynamic, sporty ambitions.
BMW Performance Control distributes engine and braking control to the individual wheels when turning. Since the wheel on the outside edge of a curve covers more ground than the one on the inside, BMW Performance Control intervenes by adjusting engine output and through targeted braking. The outer wheels receive more power and the inner ones less, in order for all of the wheels to operate with maximum traction. This means that the vehicle practically turns itself, thus increasing driving safety and comfort.

Dynamic Damper Control allows the driver to change the damper characteristics to two different settings for either an exceptionally smooth ride or increased driving dynamics. Along with the standard Comfort setting, which provides a serene and pleasant driving experience, the Sport setting is also available. When it is selected, the damper settings are firmer and the driving characteristics are more direct and dynamic. The settings are activated with the Driving Experience Control switch in the centre console.