New ZF 8 speed transmission

Hi all, visitor from the 3 series forum. I understand the recent 7 series has the new ZF 8 speed transmission which is going to trickle down to the 3s and 5s soon. Supposed to be a great unit, but thought I'd solicit some actual experiences from here. What do you think? Is it smooth, does it shift fast? How is the step down when you nail the throttle from 7th or 8th gear?

Thanks for any input!

I don't know if you'll get any answers, as the 8-speed is currently only available in the 760il -- I'm not sure if I've seen any posts here from anyone who has one. The 750i/il has the 6-speed transmission.

Originally Posted by mbarrett635

I don't know if you'll get any answers, as the 8-speed is currently only available in the 760il -- I'm not sure if I've seen any posts here from anyone who has one. The 750i/il has the 6-speed transmission.

ah, ok, thanks for the correction. Was hoping you guys were the beta testers

The 8-speed is standard on the new and currently available in the U.S. 550 Gran Turismo. The reviews on the tranny have been largely favorable. Example:

It's a fantastically smooth unit, perceptively selecting the correct next gear, responding quickly when you mash the throttle, and delivering a 6% economy improvement over the outgoing six-speed 'box.

From Car Magazine's review of the Europe only 530d Gran Turismo http://www.carmagazine.co.uk/Drives/...09-CAR-review/

i think it will goto all the cars sooner or later, coz audi's already got dual clutch 8 spd on the a4 already....