8 Speed Auto on x35i Possibility/Rumors?

[Bill B.]

Originally Posted by Jabloomf1230

I was under the impression that BMW was standardizing around the ZF Steptronic 8 speed transmission, which can accommodate various options, including an integral starter or the 55 (or more) HP ActiveHybrid electric motor (which replaces the torque converter).

I'm sure they are. My guess is that when BMW finally decided to introduce the X1 to the US and they realized that since they weren't bringing the diesel over, they needed something else in addition to the N20 28i.

The 35i is a US only, mid-life, introduction that they probably cobbled together as quickly as they could by using an existing drivetrain design from the E91. Why should they spend much time on a new E84 drivetrain design, when the F chassis version will be introduced in a few years?