If you’re in the market for a manual sports car, your choices are rapidly shrinking. Kudos to BMW for keeping the flame alive, giving enthusiasts the chance to operate their own gears in the M2, M3, and M4. (Rest in peace, Z4.) It appears buyers are taking advantage of this opportunity as well: Approximately 50% of all M2s sold in the U.S. currently come equipped with a manual transmission, according to the company. However, BMW M CEO Frank van Meel suggests that this may not be sufficient to secure the transmission’s place in the automaker’s lineup beyond the next few years.
Van Meel recently engaged with journalists in Australia, where he shared insights into M’s future plans. These will encompass 30 new full-fledged M and trimmed M Performance models over the upcoming 30 months, including the much-anticipated Neue Klasse M3. Exciting developments lie ahead. Yet, when the conversation shifted to manual transmissions, his tone became more ambiguous.
For those who have heard the M chief discuss this subject before, he didn’t reveal anything particularly new. Van Meel reiterated, based on CarSales, that the manual transmission “doesn’t really make sense because it restricts torque and fuel efficiency,” while acknowledging that, “emotionally and from a customer perspective, many individuals still cherish manuals, which is why we have maintained them, and we plan to preserve them for as long as we can.”
It’s the “for as long as we can” aspect that raises concerns, as van Meel anticipates their continuation for only “the next couple of years.” The CEO mentioned that developing entirely new manual transmissions will be “challenging” given that this is a niche market, with a weak business case for suppliers like ZF and Tremec. “In the future, it will likely become increasingly difficult to sustain manuals, particularly in the next decade,” he speculated.
It’s tough to reconcile those stark realities with the recent statistics that indicate roughly every other M2 purchaser drives away from the dealership with a manual. The industry, not just BMW, must have faith that those customers will return even if automatic is their sole option. While some enthusiasts may wait it out, many will not. Consequently, as those who prefer manuals (no offense intended, I assure you; I’m a manual owner myself) gradually leave the market, so will the skill. That’s simply the nature of things. Or, at least it will be unless the younger generation has something to say about it. Let’s hope they do.
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**50% of BMW M2 Sales are Manual Transmissions, Yet Demand May Still Exceed Availability**
The BMW M2 has risen as a prominent model in the automotive industry, especially among fans who appreciate the driving experience provided by manual transmissions. Recent sales statistics show that roughly 50% of M2 purchasers are selecting the manual transmission option, a noteworthy figure in a time when automatic gearboxes dominate the sector. This trend underscores a significant preference among sports car enthusiasts who value the hands-on connection and control that a manual transmission offers.
The M2, known for its compact dimensions, robust engine, and nimble handling, has developed a loyal fanbase. The vehicle merges performance with day-to-day usability, making it appealing to both casual drivers and passionate enthusiasts. The inclusion of a manual transmission amplifies the driving experience, enabling drivers to fully engage with the car’s performance.
Despite the robust interest in the manual variant, supply challenges have emerged as a critical concern. The automotive sector has encountered several obstacles, including semiconductor shortages and disruptions in the supply chain, affecting production rates for numerous manufacturers. Consequently, the demand for the M2, particularly the manual version, may surpass the existing supply. This disparity can result in extended wait times for consumers and potentially elevate resale values for those who successfully obtain a manual-equipped M2.
The persistent allure of manual transmissions in the M2 reflects a broader trend within the automotive community. Many enthusiasts contend that operating a manual transmission enriches the overall experience, providing a level of involvement that automatics fail to match. This viewpoint is especially prevalent among younger drivers who are in pursuit of a more genuine connection to their vehicles.
BMW’s choice to continue offering a manual transmission in the M2 aligns with the brand’s dedication to driving enjoyment. As automakers increasingly shift towards automatic and hybrid powertrains, the M2 emerges as a stronghold of classic performance values. This commitment to manual options may further reinforce the M2’s reputation as a sought-after choice among sports car lovers.
In summary, the sales figures for the BMW M2 present a compelling account of the lasting appeal of manual transmissions in a landscape increasingly dominated by automatics. With 50% of M2 sales attributed to manual versions, the demand for this model is likely to continue outstripping supply, establishing it as a highly desirable option for driving enthusiasts. As the automotive landscape changes, the M2’s combination of performance, engagement, and tradition cements its role as a distinctive offering in the sports car market.