[BimmerNugget]

Just found out that the N52 was paired up with the ZF 8 speed transmission in the 2011 528i and X3. Has anyone driven either of these cars with this engine/tranny combo? How does it feel? Is it faster?

I love the N51/N52 motors because of how smooth it is and is free from turbo issues. It's truly one of the last BMW NA motors since every BMW is turbocharged these days. However, compared to the N20/N26/B48 motors the N51/N52 is obviously not as powerful. I've always thought about how perfect of a combination it would be to have the high output version of the N52 paired with the faster ZF 8 speed. What do you guys think?

[sleepydinosaur]

Originally Posted by BimmerNugget

Just found out that the N52 was paired up with the ZF 8 speed transmission in the 2011 528i and X3. Has anyone driven either of these cars with this engine/tranny combo? How does it feel? Is it faster?

I love the N51/N52 motors because of how smooth it is and is free from turbo issues. It's truly one of the last BMW NA motors since every BMW is turbocharged these days. However, compared to the N20/N26/B48 motors the N51/N52 is obviously not as powerful. I've always thought about how perfect of a combination it would be to have the high output version of the N52 paired with the faster ZF 8 speed. What do you guys think?

Not a direct response to your question, but my experience (albeit limited) tells me that these days BMW tune the automatics based on the target demographic, and that doesn't always mean sporty.

Once drove a 128 with the same N52/6AT combo as my 328, and the transmission felt much more responsive to my right leg. I mean, yes the 128 is a lighter and more nimble car, but the transmission just felt more alive and that had nothing to do with the chassis. The only conclusion I could draw was the programming were tuned differently for a coupe than a wagon.

In that regard maybe the excellent ZF 8 speed could still feel lethargic, if BMW deems your particular model to be a grocery getter.

Or just get a manual and there'd be no second guessing on how the transmission is going to work.

[tlow98]

Agrees with information I seeked out, as well. Sadly, it’s all in the tune and when BMW is incentivized to satisfy emissions with its ‘base’ engine the result means utter boredom.

Lame