Hi and thanks for the good info here. I've worn out the configurator online and went to test drive/compare manual and steptronic transmissions today. I've been looking forward to getting out of my old MINIvan and back into the MGB/GTI/Miata/Z3 pre-kid cars! Looks like the MCS 4D is the answer, but still can't decide if I should get the automatic.

Advantage of the manual, besides the obvious connectedness, is the reduced likelihood that others will drive "my" Mini! I'm really leaning toward getting manual again.

Test drove a steptronic and was impressed with its smoothness, but did not like the shifting from the auto-stick and think I might get tired of the auto as the newness wears off - did not have a steptronic with paddle shifters on the lot. Is this option just not ordered or is it in high demand and out of stock? Seems like a nice addition to me. Thoughts anyone? If I decide on the auto, I think this would be the most sporting driving experience.

Dealer also did not have any of the cloth/striped seats on the lot. Any experience +/- with the cloth seats? I usually prefer cloth to leather/vinyl due to the heating not sliding around, but I have not seen these in action.

Stripes: Prefer the two wide stripes that go straight down the center of the car, as opposed to the angled bonnet stripes. Anyone know if the JCW style stripes are available and fit the 4 door? (It does not show as a build option). I would prefer to get them from Mini (not online) if possible.

Between the paddle shifter or manual trans, cloth sport seats, and racing stripes, it seems like I am either building a wild combo or a popular one. Which is it? Is it rare that people want these options or is MINI just making them all pleather autos unless the cars are special orders? Love them all, just want to get the best one for my tastes.

They also have a beautiful kite blue 2014 ClubmanS that would look great in the school car-rider line! I have to go back!

That's enough of a long-winded intro...enjoy the rides! Thanks in advance for any replies.
Shane

 

With the stripes, you can get a car without, then order the exact stripes you want online or have a shop do them.

I really like the leatherette seats so far. They're comfortable and probably the least maintenance. They haven't felt too hot or too cold, though I didn't have my MINI at the height of summer.

I ordered and automatic for my wife, but if you like the manual feel, by all means get that and save money (to get your upgraded seats, perhaps). I like manuals, but I'm not sure my knees could handle them anymore and the suburban hell that I drive in wouldn't be fun.

 

Thanks sMD! Great idea on the stripes - I was hoping it would be an easy fit. Still a ways off from ordering, certainly would be easier to find an automatic with leatherette, might be the best option too. I'm waffling terribly on the transmission decision. I,too, have the occasional DC traffic and old knees, and love to control the shifts. Right now, I'm leaning toward paddle shifter auto with cloth seats...by noon, I'll want manual again! Wish I could see the paddles in person. Cheers!

 

I haven't driven a MINI with the paddle shifts, but I have driven other cars. They're a completely different experience than a manual, giving you feel without taking a hand off the wheel. I think they're a good compromise.

A manual in DMV traffic is just a no-go for me, even if I'd love to have it for driving Route 50 from Winchester to Gormania. The paddles will still give you fun, from what I've heard others say about them.

Are you on a strict budget? I debated getting a dealer MINI that was very loaded, but instead chose to order and get the exact car I wanted. I didn't want a HUD or roof rails, but I did want red trim inside to go with the blazing red paint, the sport package, and the 6.5" media screen. If the price is the same, build the exact car you want.