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It's a matter of degree, IMO.
I would only worry about the clutch packs when shifting into a lower gear (particularly if the revs were not well matched, for example). I wouldn't worry about the clutch packs wearing once the lower gear is fully engaged. I would worry more about additional engine wear, but let's keep it in perspective.
I drive down a steep 3.5 km (approx 2 mile) hill every morning. The engine is close to being stone cold at that point, I have driven 2 km. I use 3rd gear, every day, to save having to ride the brakes all the way down the hill, and I have no worries about additional engine wear. The engine revs are low at the speed I travel, and there is just enough engine braking to save constant brake application. I wouldn't do it in second gear, unless I was going slower. If the engine revs were low enough, ie I wanted to drive slower, I would do it in second. If the engine is screaming away, particularly when cold, then absolutely, no doubt, go with the maxim that brakes are much cheaper than engines.
The steptronic is there for a reason. Used judiciously, particularly when towing, it increases control and conserves brakes. Use it at every stop sign or traffic light, and you will find yourself paying for transmission repairs much earlier than you should.
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2007 X3 3.0si, 6 MT, Premium, White
Retired:
2008 535i, 6 MT, M Sport, Premium, Space Grey
2003 X5 3.0 Steptronic, Premium, Titanium Silver
2002 325xi 5 MT, Steel Grey
2004 Z4 3.0 Premium, Sport, SMG, Maldives Blue
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