The Final Countdown: Why Now Is the Time to Grab Your Manual BMW M Before It Disappears
As the automotive world continues its relentless march towards digitalization and automation, a piece of driving purity is teetering on the brink of extinction. The manual transmission, that iconic hallmark of driver engagement and control, is increasingly becoming a rarity in today’s market. This trend is not new, but recent developments suggest that fans of the traditional stick shift have more reason than ever to sit up and take notice—specifically, those with a penchant for BMW's revered M models. BMW has dropped a bombshell that has enthusiasts rushing to dealerships, and it's all about the future—or rather, the lack thereof—of manual M cars.
An interview with Frank Weber, a BMW board member, in the Italian-language magazine Quattroruote, has revealed that the future of manual transmissions in BMW M models is grim. According to Weber, the 'stick shift days are numbered' at BMW’s M division. 'They are fun products, but let's be honest, the volumes are getting smaller and smaller,' he discloses, showcasing a stark reality where manual M cars could soon become collector's items rather than options on the dealership floor.
The manual transmission has long represented more than just a way to change gears. It has been a symbol of driving purism, a direct connection between car and driver that automated systems struggle to replicate. BMW, in recognition of this, has continued to offer manual options in its M lineup—a nod to the enthusiasts that have helped forge the brand's identity. In America, models like the M2, M3, and M4 still grace the showrooms with a six-speed manual option, a rare sight in today's increasingly automatic-centric market.
However, Weber's comments suggest that this concession to driving purists is approaching its endgame. As the demand for manual transmissions dwindles, so too does the rationale for developing these models. Yet, it’s not all doom and gloom for manual transmission aficionados. The recent sales figures tell a story of a vibrant, albeit niche, community of enthusiasts. More than half of the new M2 buyers opted for the six-speed manual version, and a significant portion of M3 and M4 buyers did the same. This surge in manual transmission sales might be a final rally, a testament to the enduring appeal of a driving experience unmediated by computer algorithms.
Beyond the realm of M cars, BMW has also expanded its manual offerings to include the Z4, an unexpected move that underscores the market's latent demand for stick shifts. The Z4 manual option, launched in December, now joins the ranks of the Toyota-badged Supra, bringing the joy of manual driving to a wider audience.
The disappearance of manual transmissions in M models would mark the end of an era for BMW and the driving enthusiasts who cherish the immersive experience they provide. Frank Weber mentions that even amidst declining demand, models like the M3 Touring have outperformed expectations, hinting at a passionate base of customers still hungry for engaging drive experiences, whether manual or not.
In summary, the window of opportunity to own a new manual BMW M car is closing fast. For those who yearn for the tactile feedback of a manual gearbox and the unparalleled control it offers, the message is clear: the time to act is now. As the automotive landscape evolves, and manual M cars prepare to take their final bow, securing a piece of this disappearing heritage could be your last chance to experience the thrill of driving as it was meant to be—unfiltered, engaging, and relentlessly fun.