My first impressions of the sport auto are almost overwhelming! :wow:

First, there are four modes:
Normal - auto
Normal - paddles
Sport mode - auto
Sport mode - paddles

With the sport mode active the car really transforms from being a nice, comfortable estate-sleeper to become a race car wannabee. Not just that the gear shifts are faster, that's actually the smallest part. What is more important is that the steering becomes much more sharper and the throttle respons is much, much more rapid. The engine goes from nice to bad! I can just imagine what this will do in a 550i sedan... :thumbsup: 272 bhp in an estate is not bad, but doesn't make it shift like a Porsche 911. Anyway, it's fun! :cool:

Just like the M5 you need to lift off slightly with your right foot to enable smooth changes when going manual. I need more practise, becuase it isn't that easy - the ZF gearbox is a true masterpiece and changes gear fast, fast, fast.

How anyone going for an auto and doesn't opt for the 2TB sport auto is a true mystery for me. :whistle:

:drool: I want one.

Sounds great! Since I'm driving a diesel and don't want to shift gear by my self, I'm not regretting not waiting for the SA. But if it would have been available I would have taken it, since it was just 1500 kr. I have to add that the new std Steptronic is already light years ahead of the old one, the manual mode is very fast.

Congrats again on your new BMW!

Now I really can't wit till next week when I will have mine among my hands.

Marco, sorry for ruining your weekend :whistle: ... but rest asure - it'll be worth the wait! :cool:

Well, how about a) I didn't order the car, and b) it's a June 2007 production option here in the USA. :tease:

I will "second" ipp's comment about the new Steptronic automatic being the best BMW automatic transmission that we've had. Although I think the N54 engine helps responsiveness as well. :D