At the BMWCCA-LA sponsored event during the Rolex series races chapter last weekend Hernando Carvajal, brand manager of the M-Divsion, was kind enough to answer our questions. Regarding the next M3, he refused to state what the engine will be, but he did divulge that the E90 will have both the 7-speed SMG III AND a traditional stick shift available. The stick shift will be for the North American market only, and will not be availble until the second year of production.

Greg


:beer:

Yeah I heard about the 7 Speed SMG, thats an amazing car mmmmmmm E90.

Well - I'm not a fan of SMG (just a personal preference,
not a religious choice :))

I'll give the new 7 speed SMG a test drive but I
probably won't go that route.

Frank

Engine will be a v8 derived from the m5 v10 with 415 hp

I currently own a 6spd stick and am looking forward to the new E90 M3 to purchase it WITH SMG regardless of tranny choice.
I am totally happy with stick shift, but want to purchase the next generation with the latest technology available. I LOVE my 6spd, BUT I really think with all the fun features of SMG you can have just as much fun;)

JUST SOME INFO:
Here in Toronto, you rarely see NEW M3's at the dealers with SMG's.....what salesmen have told me is that the demand for 6spd stick is higher here?

BS?.....I dont know?......but I do see the cars in the dealers and RARELY do you see an SMG?

go to California...totally opposite there