The era of manual transmission cars is fading fast, and BMW’s M Division is signaling that the end is near. In a recent interview with Quattroruote magazine, BMW board member Frank Weber acknowledged that the days of manual gearboxes in M cars are numbered.
While BMW has continued to offer manual transmissions in response to customer preference, Weber noted that dwindling demand is making it increasingly impractical to develop and produce manual-equipped models. Currently, the M2, M3, and M4 are available with a six-speed manual gearbox in the United States, though options are more limited in other markets like the UK.
Despite enthusiasts showing some interest in manual transmissions, particularly with the M2, M3, and M4 models, Weber cautioned that these options may not be available for long. BMW has observed a significant portion of new M2 buyers opting for the manual transmission, signaling a niche market for stick shift enthusiasts.
While the decline of manual transmissions may be disappointing for some, BMW hinted at exciting developments in its lineup, including the unexpected success of the M3 Touring model. The positive response has led BMW to consider expanding its offerings, with the possibility of introducing a new M5 Touring variant, and even teasing the potential availability of the M5 Touring in the American market.