SMG on E46 330

[gvass]

Has anyone had the chance to try out the SMG in an E46 325 or 330? I was wondering what the thoughts and observations were? I read the article in the latest Bimmer magazine, which knocked this system in the Z4 horribly. Just wanted to know whether anyone had actually tried it out. Thinking of ordering a new sedan, and I was weighing this option. I know that it will never compare to the SMG in the E46 M3. That rocks!

[Chocaine]

Here are a few threads to help you:
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47483&highlight=smg%2A
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=36062&highlight=smg%2A
http://www.bimmerfest.com/forums/showthread.php?t=48507&highlight=smg%2A

[andy_thomas]

Has anyone had the chance to try out the SMG in an E46 325 or 330? I was wondering what the thoughts and observations were? I read the article in the latest Bimmer magazine, which knocked this system in the Z4 horribly. Just wanted to know whether anyone had actually tried it out. Thinking of ordering a new sedan, and I was weighing this option. I know that it will never compare to the SMG in the E46 M3. That rocks!

I did have a brief run in a 325i in 2002, around the time the SMG for the 3 series (nee SSG) first showed up. Be glad that you only recently had access to this option, as I recall being disappointed. The Selespeed system in Alfa Romeo's 156 was so much more responsive. I think matters have improved somewhat as a function of BMW's early release of SMG/SSG to European markets.

If you're expecting auto-style smoothness you'll be disappointed. Also 99% of drivers don't realise how much time is taken by your average slushbox to change gears, and won't particularly care if it's any faster with the SMG. They'll just call it "jerky".

[eelnoraa]

I test drove 330 SMG for a long 30 minutes, my impression on SMG is overall NOT impressive. In fact, after test driving it, I can see "no reason" of getting SMG or the extra cost over Steptronics (or there maybe only one reason which I don't get chance to verify).

Here is why:

1. SMG functionally in everyway works just like Steptronics. I will say it is worse thann Steptronics because it give you jerkier shift especially 1st to 2nd. If I were looking for a smooth, comfortable commuter, I would go with Steps.

2. There is no clutch to operate cut the fun factor in half. For the whole time, I just feel like I am driving a steps, but a jerkier steps.

During the 30 minutes of test drive, I really didn't see the advantage of SMG over Steps. I personally will stay with 6 speed manual, unless I really cannot operate the clutch, but don't want lose power throught torque converter, then I maybe choose SMG.

eel

[mscoins]

Had the chance to do a couple of laps in a M3 with SMG at BMW's Performance Center in October. Don't know how it would be under normal conditions, but SMG felt very responsive during aggressive driving.

[doeboy]

Had the chance to do a couple of laps in a M3 with SMG at BMW's Performance Center in October. Don't know how it would be under normal conditions, but SMG felt very responsive during aggressive driving.

That's an SMG-II. Non-M cars get SMG. Different programming. Unless they've revised the SMG programming for non-Ms...

[LMC]

I suppose I should comment here. I've had my 325iT SMG for two weeks and a couple of hundred miles, so my experience is very limited.

I certainly agree with others who've criticized the lurchy shifting in the auto mode. By using the manual mode, one can shift quite smoothly.

The one other thing that I would say is that the paddle action is still not completely comfortable for me. The "push to shift down" is fine, but I find the angle awkward for the "pull to shift up." I suppose I'll find the right hand position/finger action sooner or later.

The specs on my 325iT:
Electric Red with Natural Brown leather, SMG, sport pkg, power/heated front seats with (special order) pwr lumbar, OBC, H-K audio, Bi-Xenon lights. Mods: Maple trim replacing "titanium" plastic trim, BBS RC wheels with Pilot Sport 2 tires (17x8 wheels & 225/45ZR-17 tires), M aerodynamic pkg II on order. Planning to fit M sport steering wheel (with paddle retrofit.)

Ti trim and OE style 119 wheels with Conti 225/45ZR-17s for sale...and
I also have another set of the three dash pieces of maple trim (fit any E46) for sale if anyone's interested. I really like the maple -- lighter than myrtle and darker than birch -- with nat brown. I suppose this post is worthless without pictures, but having moved from Maryland to Oregon, I'm now on dial-up.....grrrr....

[Freaky_Monkey]

I've had my 325CI SSG/SMG for the last eight months, and an Alfa Romeo 156 Selespeed before that. All I can say is that my 325 was dreadful when I first got it, but after eight visits to the dealer, they've finally sorted it. Later SSG computer revisions have tidied up the clutch and shift response, so it's much more smoother and less jerky. To be honest, only your passengers will really notice the jerkiness, mainly because the driver always knows its coming.

There are conflicting opinions about lifting off the gas when changing, to smooth things out. AFAIK, the computer actually does that for you, so it doesn't really make much of a difference except for slowing the car down a little bit. Also, auto-mode is not great, but given that there are two paddles that go up & down and a stick, how hard can it be not to make that change! Finally, learn when you need to change down. The up-shifts are easy, but it's much smoother (especially in traffic) if you know when you need to change down. This is especially important in traffic situations, as it'll make smooth progress much easier without having to wait for the computer to catch up.

I've always maintained that SSG is the best combination of gearbox if you live in certain areas. If most of your driving is jam-free, then don't bother - buy a stick and have some fun! If you drive a lot in traffic, but hate torque converters, then the SSG is the way to go.

Two quick mechanical / electricals to check for if you buy/own one. Firstly, if the response from first > second is very jerky, ask them to ensure the hydraulic system has been bled and topped-up correctly. Secondly, ensure you're at SMG computer revision 30+, as they've corrected a few hundred problems.

[andy_thomas]

I test drove 330 SMG for a long 30 minutes, my impression on SMG is overall NOT impressive. In fact, after test driving it, I can see "no reason" of getting SMG or the extra cost over Steptronics (or there maybe only one reason which I don't get chance to verify).

Here is why:

1. SMG functionally in everyway works just like Steptronics. I will say it is worse thann Steptronics because it give you jerkier shift especially 1st to 2nd. If I were looking for a smooth, comfortable commuter, I would go with Steps.

2. There is no clutch to operate cut the fun factor in half. For the whole time, I just feel like I am driving a steps, but a jerkier steps.

During the 30 minutes of test drive, I really didn't see the advantage of SMG over Steps. I personally will stay with 6 speed manual, unless I really cannot operate the clutch, but don't want lose power throught torque converter, then I maybe choose SMG.

eel

Interesting. In the US does BMW charge more for the SMG system? In Europe, Asia-Pac and other places it seems to be cheaper than the automatic (about 25% cheaper). If this is the case, I suppose it's only supply-and-demand setting the price.

[eelnoraa]

Interesting. In the US does BMW charge more for the SMG system? In Europe, Asia-Pac and other places it seems to be cheaper than the automatic (about 25% cheaper). If this is the case, I suppose it's only supply-and-demand setting the price.

For 3 series in US
SMG MSRP: $1500
Steps MSRP: $1250

eel