|
Originally Posted by dani_d_mas
Sounds like a very good Z4, with all the option and gadjets I would get myself! 
Any photo of the wheels? I'd like to see which 18in wheels you're talking about... |
Sure...
A better interior shot...
|
Originally Posted by acmarttin
Would you mind writing up a mini-review of the SMG gearbox? I've been considering getting a pre-owned Z4 as a future vehicle and have so far only been considering the 6-speed. I'm not looking for anything too technical, but there's lots of stop-go traffic here and I've been wondering if the SMG is fun to drive as a substitute for a sore left leg.
|
Sure. Part of the reason I got this car is that I live in the second largest city in the UK now...
Regarding the SMG transmission...it really is the best of both worlds, in my mind.
It is basically a 6 speed manual transmission with an electro-hydraulic actuator which operates the clutch for you. No doubt ZfrkS62 can tell you more about the technology than I can, as he is a BMW technician. Alternatively, google it.
It changes gear quicker than I ever could, especially in 'sport' mode. On normal Z4's the sport button firms up the steering and increases throttle response. On the SMG it makes the shifting happen quicker.
I have owned a steptronic (automatic with torque converter) Z3 3.0i previously and this SMG gearbox is so much better than the automatic gearbox.
SMG blips the throttle on downshifts, rev matching the engine like a racing driver can double de-clutch in a manual transmission car. This in itself 'sold' the car/SMG system to me! I am a child at heart!
Because there is no torque converter the fuel economy is no worse than a conventional manual transmission.
When traffic is heavy or I am feeling lazy I can just put the stick into 'D' mode and it acts like an automatic. SMG in auto mode doesn't seem to change gears at the wrong time either, like mid-corner. The steptronic on the Z3 used to do this occasionally and it was annoying.
The only other thing is that the car will roll backwards on a hill at tickover RPM, unlike an automatic. Useful when reversing like in a manual car when on a hill where you can let it roll backward by just dipping the clutch pedal and not actually have to engage the throttle.
Quite honestly, the one key thing stopping me from buying a Z4M (other than £) is the fact that SMG is not available.
I hear that the VW/Audi DSG system is even better than my SMG system...