[mgarvey]

I drove a 320d MT back to back with a 320d AT, and at the time I preferred the MT (and bought one). It wasn't that the MT was better - it wasn't - but I just didn't think the AT was worth another £1600.

With hindsight I agree that the MT has a slightly clunky shift that needs a bit of effort, and can be a bit sticky to get into gear unless you really shove the lever.

What I think is this; the F30 is new, and I've bought a fairly basic 318d MT. Before the model is replaced, I'll most likely have another, and use the opportunity to get the options I didn't specify this time.

In other words in time I can have my cake and eat it!