According to Autocar.co.uk the 2008 BMW M3 will get a 7-speed double-clutch gearbox as an alternative to the standard 6-speed manual.
Official confirmation of the 7-speed transmission came through a document issued to BMW dealers confirming the 2008 BMW M3's specification.
The new gearbox, called M DCT, will be available from March 2008. The M DCT transmission is made by BMW’s long-term partner, Getrag. This 7-speed transmission will provide nearly imperceptible shifts.
The speed of a double-clutch transmission is likely to improve the 2008 BMW M3’s 4.8sec 0-62mph time by a few of tenths of a second.
The M DCT transmission should offer significantly smoother shifts than BMW’s SMG transmission in the M5 and M6.
The transmission will be controlled by a combination of a shift lever and steering wheel paddles.
Other options for the M3 (on sale in September) include 19in alloy wheels and electronic damper
control. The carbonfibre roof will be standard.
