|
Seems to me the difference (apart from the paddles and a slightly different — both styled by Norelco — shifter) is software. But I wonder a couple of things: (1) If there is a programming difference, and the AT is such an important part of the package in terms of fuel economy, is there a difference in real-world fuel economy between the Sport Auto and the normal AT? (2) What programming/shift timing differences are there between the Sport Auto and the normal AT in "Sport" mode? I've read that "Sport" mode in the normal AT locks out 8th gear and costs something in highway MPG. I wonder how that compares to the Sport Auto.
I have a six-cylinder 328i with MT and the non-turbo N52 engine. It's a great combination, but not terribly fuel-efficient, especially around town. But it's enormously fun and satisfying to drive, and plenty fast enough for me. A lot of people with the AT in this car have been unhappy both with the old six-speed AT from General Motors and with the car's responsiveness. On the other hand, I think the turbocharged engines and the new 8-speed from ZF, in either form, are well matched to each other and — except for some rough edges, apparently, around the Start/Stop system — the better choice for turbocharged engines, since the fast shifts help to keep the boost up and minimize the effects of turbo lag.
|