BMW officials have confirmed that the company's seven-speed, dual-clutch automated manual gearbox (DCT) will replace the optional six-speed automatic transmission on the 2011 BMW 135i. The Getrag six-speed manual will remain standard.
We expect the twin-clutch gearbox will incrementally reduce fuel consumption in conjunction with the 135i's new N55 inline-6 engine, which combines a single, twin-scroll turbocharger with the company's sophisticated Valvetronic electric-motor-driven variable-valve-lift technology. BMW earlier told us that the upgrades on the N55 engine are good for an 8-percent improvement in mpg right off the bat.
Meanwhile, the 2011 BMW 335i will not get the 7-speed DCT, company officials tell us.
Note: This photo shows the seven-speed M DCT from the current M3. The DCT in the 135i should dispense with the Motorsport badge.
rayainsw says:
12:48 PM, 01/14/10
Interesting - another source says:
"The 3 series will also receive this same engine switch with an 8 speed transmission later this spring. The recently revealed high performance “iS” version of the 3er will feature a tuned version of the current twin turbo motor (N54) and a 7 speed DCT."
http://www.bimmerfile.com/2010/01/10/exclusive-2011-bmw-135i-gets-a-new-motor-335i-to-follow/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Bimmerfile+(BimmerFile)&utm_content=Yahoo!+Mail
notabigdeal says:
07:18 PM, 01/14/10
It seems to be a good car, but again for me the options list to BMW is wayyy to expensive for poor people like me who like certain amenities on a car.
blueguydotcom says:
10:37 PM, 01/14/10
notabigdeal,
1. ED is a great option - 15% off MSRP and a trip you will never forget
2. Order the car as BMW is one of the few who allow ala carte options.
I'd avoid the N54/N55 as the current N54 is plagued with issues and the next one may be too.
chavis10 says:
07:38 AM, 01/15/10
Nice photo- really shows off that huge expanse of premium black plastic.
cr_driver says:
09:37 AM, 01/15/10
No, the info is correct RAYAIN
The 335i will not receive the DCT
The 335is will receive it on the other hand.