Hi,

I got my 2009 Mini cooper with automatic transmission a month ago, but I like to drive in its manushift mode. I notice that it is quite easy and smooth to start moving the car with 2nd gear, furthermore, when the car slow down to a complete stop, the gear only automatically goes down to 2nd gear rather than 1st. So I wonder whether MINI should actually start from 2nd gear most of the times.

Another question about fuel efficiency. When I need to slow down the car, will it be more fuel efficient to shift the gear to lower one (of course completely releasing gas pedal) or simply breaks.

Your advice is greatly appreciated.

 

My 05 MCSa does the whole 2nd gear thing as well. I assume its to save gas.

Im not to sure about Engine braking. Usually that is reserved for downhill slopes to keep your brakes from heating. Or for racing.

I did it at first, but then i stopped because its more wear on the transmission, which is the more expensive of the 2 (Tranny or Brakes).