BMW has added a seven-speed double-clutch transmission option to its M3 line-up. The new two-pedal gearbox gives the M3 superior acceleration to the six-speed manual version - the coupe with "M double-clutch" transmission can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 4.6 seconds, 0.2 seconds faster than the conventional manual version.
The new transmission offers as many as 11 driver-selectable and electronically controlled driving programme choices. Each oil-cooled wet clutch activates its own set of ratios - one is used for first, third, fifth and seventh gears, as well as reverse, while the other looks after second, fourth and sixth gears.
The double-clutch transmission also incorporates a low speed-assistant mode that operates when manoeuvring at speeds of less than 5km/h to increase the smoothness and degree of accelerator control available to the driver. The transmission will be available here in the BMW M3 range in the second half of next year.
