M140i and M240i saying 'goodbye' to Manual gearbox

New today coming from inside BMW (I know a lad on the inside) states that from Week 27 (July 2018), the M140i and M240i will no longer be available with the 6 speed manual gearbox.
This also includes models lower down in the range, apparently the 120i/d up to the M140i will be auto only - no word yet on the 116i/d or 118i/d but it appears for now these can still have a good old fashioned manual.

Reasons for the shift to auto’s, especially with the Mx40i models, is likely due to emmissions, as the manual, on average, sits at a higher RPM, especially whilst on the motorway, compared to the ZF8 sport auto gearbox.

Whilst this is a shame for those who enjoy the manual, it’s not hard to see why they’ve made the switch.
The sport automatic system uses less fuel, shifts faster and comes with launch control, and can still be just as engaging by slotting the gearbox into sport mode and using the shifter as a sequential stick.

Also stated in the report is that the new X3 40i will be reduced in power too.
As of now, there is no official number that it will be dropped by, or dropped to - but once again, this is done to keep to ever-tightening emmissions regulations.