I like them both, for different reasons. We have an X5 steptronic, a 325xi manual, and a Z4 with the SMG. The Z4 is the toy car, so it has been fun having the SMG in it. Downshifts at 3000 rpm (with the double-clutching and throttle blip) are cool. The shifting has gotten ever smoother since we bought the car new. Some of that is driver training, and I think that is the big reason the magazines are down on the SMG, they never spent enough time with it to learn how to drive it properly.

I see people comparing the SMG to a manual, and when it is in auto mode, to an automatic. I don't think it is like either, it is a third type of transmission. The auto feature is not at all like an auto, since you need to be paying attention so you may as well shift it yourself with the paddles. In traffic the SMG is easier to drive than a stick.

I don't regret getting it, but the next car we are getting doesn't come with an SMG, so it will be a 6 speed manual.

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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