BMW M4 G82 M3 8 SPEED DCT Transmission
It is a common misconception, but it’s important to clarify: The BMW M3 (G80) and M4 (G82/G83) do not use a DCT (Dual-Clutch Transmission).
BMW transitioned away from the 7-speed DCT used in the previous F8x generation. Instead, the G8x models utilize an 8-Speed M Steptronic Transmission with Drivelogic, which is a high-performance torque-converter automatic developed by ZF (specifically the ZF 8HP76).
Here is the breakdown of why this transmission is used and how it differs from a “complete” package perspective.
1. Why the switch from DCT to 8-Speed?
BMW made this shift for three primary reasons:
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Torque Capacity: The S58 engine in the Competition and xDrive models produces up to 650 Nm (479 lb-ft) of torque. The ZF 8-speed is better equipped to handle this and future power increases without the expensive clutch upgrades often needed for DCTs.
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All-Wheel Drive (xDrive): The ZF 8-speed was already engineered to work seamlessly with BMW’s xDrive transfer cases (as seen in the M5 and M8), making it the logical choice for the first-ever AWD M3/M4.
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Daily Drivability: Torque converters provide much smoother low-speed “creeping” and shifting in traffic compared to the sometimes “clunky” nature of a DCT.
2. The “M Steptronic” Difference
While it is technically a “planetary automatic,” BMW M has heavily modified this unit to mimic the aggressive character of a DCT:
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M-Specific Tuning: In its most aggressive Drivelogic setting (S3), the shifts are intentionally “jolty” and immediate to maintain that motorsport feel.
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Multi-Gear Downshifts: Unlike a DCT, which can generally only pre-select one gear at a time, the 8-speed can “skip” gears (e.g., dropping from 8th directly to 3rd) almost instantly by holding the downshift paddle.
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Direct Lock-up: The torque converter locks up almost immediately after pull-away, providing a direct mechanical link between the engine and the wheels that feels very similar to a manual or DCT.
3. Complete Gearbox Assembly Components
If you are looking for a complete G8x transmission assembly (for a repair or an xDrive conversion), a “Complete Package” includes:
| Component | Function |
| Transmission Case | The ZF 8HP76 main unit with internal planetary gear sets. |
| Integrated TCU | The Transmission Control Unit is internal, programmed with M-specific logic. |
| Oil Catch Pan | A specialized Aluminum Pan (unlike the plastic ones on standard BMWs) for improved cooling. |
| Torque Converter | The high-stall unit designed specifically for the S58 power band. |
| Transfer Case (AWD Only) | For xDrive models, the transmission is often sold bolted to the ATC13-1 Transfer Case. |
Technical Specification Table
| Feature | G8x M3/M4 (8-Speed) | F8x M3/M4 (7-Speed DCT) |
| Transmission Type | Torque Converter Automatic | Dual-Clutch Transmission |
| Manufacturer | ZF (8HP76) | Getrag (GS7D36SG) |
| Gear Count | 8 Gears | 7 Gears |
| Launch Control | Optimized for AWD/RWD | High-RPM “Clutch Drop” style |
| Engagement | Fluid-coupled (Smooth) | Mechanical Clutch (Raw/Mechanical) |
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