I think I'm almost losing track of how many different types of transmissions BMW currently has, is in the process of creating, or will be supporting in a very short timeframe. Currently, we know that a 6 speed manual and Steptronic automatic transmission are common and widely available across most series of cars. There is also the SMG (or SMGII) transmission on M models and other models such as the 5 series. Now, BMW is coming out with a "Sport Automatic" which, according to the latest press release on the 2008 5-series will shift up to 40% faster and have direct interaction with the gears (whatever that means, bypassing a torque converter??? ) And, finally, we have these pervasive rumors of a double clutch manual transmission or DSG similar to what Audi has, which may arrive in the near future!?!?!?!

So, why all these changes in transmissions? Why the rumored demise of the SMG (or SMGII) after just a few short years of what was supposed to be the transmission of all transmissions? How different will a Sport Automatic be from a Steptronic? Isn't this just an improved Steptronic? What do all these changes do to resale value on cars that have a transmission that will no longer be manufactured? How long before I have a wire coming from the dashboard into my ear and all I have to do is "think 3rd gear" to get a shift??? Sheeesh!