04:03 25-11-2025

Why BMW is moving from dual-clutch transmissions to automatics

BMW was long seen as one of the staunchest backers of dual-clutch transmissions: DCTs appeared in the M3, M4, M5, M6 and a number of regular models. In recent years, however, the brand has shifted course and moved to conventional automatics. The reasons are several, and they are far more down-to-earth than they might seem.

The chief factor is comfort. BMW M development head Dirk Hacker said back in 2023 that customers complained about jerks and awkward behavior in traffic. A DCT shines on a circuit, yet at parking speeds or in slow crawls it can feel fidgety, which grates on owners over time.

Cost is the next piece of the puzzle. Two clutches add expense on the production line and complicate maintenance. Meanwhile, modern torque-converter automatics—most notably ZF’s 8HP—have become so fast and precise that, in terms of performance, they’ve effectively drawn level with DCTs. BMW maintains the automatic no longer gives up ground in either acceleration or fuel efficiency.

Then there’s durability. The Ford PowerShift saga showed how a DCT can turn into a headache, with overheating, shuddering and electronic failures. More carmakers are stepping away from that risk. Hyundai is also switching to a conventional automatic in the new Santa Fe to improve drivability.

In the end, sophisticated dual-clutch setups remain a niche choice—largely for Porsche’s PDK or McLaren supercars. BMW is now betting on smoothness, versatility and everyday ease, and an automatic is the best tool for that brief. In daily use, that trade-off usually matters more than shaving a tenth off a lap time.