[M235ForNow]

One of the threads here asked if it's possible to have the ZF transmission start in 2nd gear. I've noticed that in the early AM I always get a lurch from 1st to 2nd and got motivated to check.

Kinda fun, actually. When coming to a stop (or at one) it's easy to just tap the shifter into manual mode and pull down to 2nd. Take off and then just flick it into auto.

Part and parcel of messing around with the auto and comparing it to a BMW 6 speed that's also in the family. I actually find that sport mode is a bit annoying as the engine is droning when I'm just cruising. Comfort mode fixes that but then doesn't have the punch ready when needed that one sometimes wants. Putting the car in manual gives the best of both of (those) worlds. Actually very similar to a regular 6 speed except that the left leg doesn't get a workout. Also fun to modulate the throttle to try and get the shifts as smooth as the car can do when in auto mode.

Anyone else here drive a reasonable bit in manual mode? And if you do - paddles or shifter? I find the paddles to be a pain as they rotate with the wheel. For me, it's easier to just put my hand down to the shift like I've done for so many decades with regular manuals.

[Ron Jeffries]

I drive often in manual mode, usually use the clickers, sometimes the shifter if the clickers are out of position in a tight turn. sometimes the shifter just to be cool.

I miss my DCT, it's the one loss from the 135is that I really miss.

There are days when I want a real manual but very few.

[Zwei]

The paddles need to be about 2" taller.

[M235ForNow]

Originally Posted by Zwei

The paddles need to be about 2" taller.

YES! When I'm trying to paddle shift, half the time I'm turn signal and headlight shifting instead, LOL.