BMW is beginning to phase out its manual transmission models, evident in the brand’s newer models, all coming with automatic transmissions. Even the brand’s lineup M cars no longer have this gearbox as there is a low demand for them. 

Aside from this, the German brand also cites that it also creates production difficulties and that these shift-it-yourself gearboxes are “worse” than their automatic counterparts.

For recently launched models such as the 2023 BMW M2, it forces customers who want a manual to search for the vehicle in other markets outside of the US. Even in European markets such as the UK and Germany, the demand for manual transmission is steadily decreasing, as stated by BMW’s CEO.

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Automatic transmissions have come a long way

Automatic transmissions have come a long way from what they originally were in the late '80s and early '90s. They are now smoother and quicker to shift to what they once were and can now deliver power to the ground nearly uninterrupted. Most automatics even come with a manual mode that will let you hold a gear, giving you a sportier drive.

M Bureau boss Frank van Meel told CarThrottle: “Manual cars are slower and result in increased fuel consumption (and) sometimes lower top speed, so a manual transmission from an engineering point of view no longer makes sense."

Van Meel added: Having a manual transmission model these days is like giving The M2 will be the last BMW M to have a clutch pedal.

It indicates that more customers prefer the automatic transmission to the manual as it is slowly becoming a relic of a bygone era.

It can also be an effort of BMW to make its cars a bit safer, as Van Meel has stated that customers want manual transmissions to prove they can “Control this beast,” which is odd considering that the German brand caters to drivers.

Tighter emissions standards

Another probable cause for the shift to automatics is that it's easier to make a car more efficient with an auto. European emissions have been tightening over the past few years, making it harder for automakers to adhere to these standards with a manual.

Gearing also plays a role in emissions, as testing standards require a car to be at a specific gear and in a certain rev range to pass. Performance might have to be sacrificed to meet these emission standards versus an automatic transmission that can be programmed to upshift to lower engine revs immediately.

Is it the end of the manual? Not just yet, as some automakers are trying to integrate the feature with their future lineup of electric vehicles.