Drivetrains Flashcards
what makes BMW drivetrains special (27 cards)
What does BMW call its traditional automatic transmission?
Steptronic
What transmission is used in most modern BMWs across trims?
ZF 8-speed automatic (Steptronic)
What does “ZF” stand for in BMW transmission discussions?
ZF Friedrichshafen — the manufacturer of the 8-speed transmission used in BMWs
Is the ZF 8-speed and Steptronic the same thing?
Yes — “Steptronic” is BMW’s name for the ZF 8-speed automatic
How does M Steptronic differ from regular Steptronic?
It’s a performance-tuned version with faster shifts, used in M models
When did BMW start phasing out M DCT in favor of ZF 8-speed?
Around 2019–2020
What was the last M car to offer an M DCT?
F87 M2 Competition (up to 2021)
What type of drivetrain does “xDrive” refer to?
BMW’s all-wheel drive system
What’s the difference between xDrive and sDrive?
xDrive = AWD; sDrive = RWD (or FWD in smaller models like X1/X2)
What is “M xDrive”?
A performance-tuned AWD system with RWD bias and selectable modes (AWD, AWD Sport, 2WD)
Which BMW models still offer RWD standard in 2025?
Most sedans like 3 Series, 5 Series; M2, M3 (manual), M4, etc.
Which cars use M xDrive?
M5, M8, X5 M, X6 M, and G80 M3/G82 M4 with automatic
Is xDrive rear-biased or front-biased?
Rear-biased — even in AWD, BMW maintains RWD handling dynamics
Does xDrive reduce performance?
No — it improves traction and acceleration; newer systems are performance-oriented
Can you turn off xDrive in M cars?
Yes, M xDrive allows switching to full RWD mode
What type of drivers typically prefer DCT over ZF?
Track enthusiasts who value ultra-fast, aggressive shifts
What is sDrive30i vs xDrive30i?
sDrive30i = RWD; xDrive30i = AWD version of same trim
What is the main downside of M DCT in real-world driving?
It can feel clunky or harsh in stop-and-go traffic and low-speed maneuvers
Why is the ZF 8HP transmission praised by performance enthusiasts?
It shifts nearly as fast as a DCT but is smoother, handles more torque, and is more durable
Which M car offers a 6-speed manual transmission in 2025?
M2 and M3 (base) still offer a 6-speed manual
What’s the benefit of M xDrive’s selectable modes?
Offers flexibility: AWD for grip, AWD Sport for aggressive performance, 2WD for drift/fun
Why don’t BMW EVs use traditional transmissions?
EVs have single-speed gear reduction systems — no multi-speed gearbox is needed
Which BMW EVs still feature a “gear selector” and why?
All EVs have one for driver familiarity, though it’s electronically simulated
How do M xDrive and regular xDrive differ in software tuning?
M xDrive offers more aggressive torque distribution, quicker clutch actuation, and RWD mode
