Well I'm really glad (but not happy for anyone) that I'm not the only one with this very bad problem. We had a 2004 X5 4.4i and a great 4.8is, and the transmissions were so silky smooth. I've also had 4 E46s, and the transmissions were also excellent.

I think it is pointless to turn our cars into the dealership, have some grease monkey (err, BMW mechanic) test drive the hell out of our cars, use $40.00 worth of gas...and then return it and say the car is performing to 'Factory Standards'. I called our dealership, and they said that there is NO software update for the 2008 4.8i, in regards to transmission.

I totally agree with the posts about the transmission holding the gear to a stupidly high RPM, even once the ascent levels off. It is loud, a total waste of precious fuel and embarassing for such an expensive, 'premium car'.

BMW, if you have anyone trolling this site/post...Please contact us, and fix our cars!