What is the transmission model of the BMW 218i Touring?
3 Answers
BMW 218i Touring transmission model is the GA6F21AW, which is an Aisin 6AT automatic transmission. Definition of CVT transmission: CVT refers to a type of automotive transmission, also known as a continuously variable transmission. The difference between a CVT and a stepped transmission is that its gear ratio is not a series of discrete points but a continuous range of values, thereby achieving good fuel economy, power performance, and driving smoothness, while also reducing emissions and costs. Definition of AT automatic transmission: Hydraulic automatic transmissions achieve automatic shifting through a combination of hydraulic drive and planetary gears. They generally consist of components such as a torque converter, planetary gear sets, shift actuators, shift control systems, and shift operating mechanisms.
The transmission configuration of the BMW 218i Touring varies depending on the production year and drivetrain. This car is a front-wheel-drive model based on the UKL platform, so the matching transmission also differs. I've specifically studied BMW's technical manuals: the 2014 to 2015 218i Touring models used the Aisin 6AT transmission, model GA6F21AW, with a mechanical parking lock. After the 2016 facelift, it switched entirely to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, the Magna-produced 7DCT300. However, note that some batches produced in 2016 might have transitional mixed usage. The most reliable way to determine the exact model is to check the 10th digit of the VIN for the corresponding year or inspect the transmission nameplate under the car. Also, a reminder: the dual-clutch version requires regular replacement of specialized transmission fluid, which has a different maintenance cycle compared to the AT transmission.
The biggest fear when buying a car is not understanding the core component specifications. For popular models like the 218i Touring, the transmission configuration changed significantly in 2016. Early models produced between 2014-2015 mostly came with a 6AT gearbox—the shifter looks ordinary but is known for its durability, a tuning style familiar to veteran BMW owners. After 2016, it switched to a 7DCT300 dual-clutch transmission, offering quicker starts and better fuel efficiency, though it may occasionally jerk at low speeds. I’ve seen cases where owners misidentified the transmission type while modifying the exhaust, leading to ECU tuning errors that locked up the gearbox. So, either check the registration date on the green book or open the hood to find the transmission stamp, usually located near the battery area.
