BMW Confirms 6-Speed Manual Transmission for the 2013 M5.

Detroit, MI –

On the occasion of the North American International Auto Show, BMW confirmed today that it will offer a 6-speed manual transmission on the North American version of the upcoming 2013 BMW M5. The 6-speed manual will be available from the start of production this summer and will be offered as a no-cost alternative to the standard 7-speed M-Double Clutch Transmission (M-DCT). The manual gearbox was a popular choice for U.S. customers of the previous generation M5 and continues to be a unique offer in the segment.

Though the 6-speed gearbox has one less gear than the M-DCT transmission, the ratios have been optimized for acceleration, flexibility and fuel economy. Final drive ratio and special M differential are maintained. The new transmission is mated to a short throw shift linkage topped with a black leather backlit shift knob.

The 2013 M5 will arrive at US BMW Centers in late summer 2012. Pricing, options and specifications will be released closer to the on-sale date.

Source [BMW]

 

great news! BMW is still retaining some of it's sports car essence

 

Yesssssssss

 

Wouldn't mind one as a company car

 

Looking good with that old school gearbox!

 

Awesome move by BMW!

All other automobile manufacturers should take notice.

 

Only true if you define the segment occupied by the M5 not to include both the Panamera and CTS-V, both of which already offer manual gearboxes.

And you'd be mad to think that M5 customers aren't also looking at those cars. I did, and went with the V, whose manual was light-years better than the rubbery POS on the E60 M5.

 

One of the few times that we got something that the Europeans did not.

 

Please let the clutch be stiff and crisp like the CTSV and not the dog excrement soft and vague POS one in my E90 M3.

 

This is great to hear.