BMW M listens to its fans; Will offer manual gearbox till 2030

BMW M cars would also continue to stick to its in-line 6 and V8 power units.

Most car brands are shifting to automatic transmissions across their product lineup, especially in their high-performance offerings. BMW however, is one of the few which still offers the option of a manual gearbox on its performance models. Cars such as the M2, M3 and M4 give customers the choice of a manual gearbox. This, according to reports, will continue till the end of the decade.

Speaking to media outlets, Frank van Meel, Head of BMW M, confirmed that manual gearboxes have a future in M cars. Meel mentioned that while the performance division wants to keep the manual gearbox, it all depends on customer demand. He stated, "so long as the customer keeps demanding it, BMW will supply it. You don't need to be afraid of the manual going away."

Timo Resch, VP for customer, brand & sales, BMW M, stated that retaining the manual was tricky, especially the part of convincing the engineering team. However, the company listened to the customers and the fan base of the manual gearbox and decided to continue offering it. Resch also mentioned about 'Save the manual' campaign, which has customers from various global markets putting up petitions and voting to keep the manual. He said, "The fans asked for it. They got it."

Frank van Meel also recently announced that BMW M cars would also continue to stick to its in-line 6 and V8 power units and not downsize to high-performance 3 & 4-cylinder engines anytime soon.

Source: CarBuzz