[swartzentruber]

I'd say the fact that the new M5 is adopting the M3's DCT (even with a turbo) is a sign that M will be keeping the DCT around. Yes, the X5/6M has an auto, but those have higher torque engines because of the extra weight. I know some predict a blending/merger of autos/DCTs, but this is the first non manual shifted trans I've really liked, so there's something about the power delivery of the DCT that could keep them around.