Hey guys, don't know if this was ever posted, but I got a two questions about the newer F56's because I'm thinking of getting a MINI again (would be third one).

1) I was wondering if anyone has any solid information about the current auto and manual transmissions.
2) Is it worth it to go from the Premier to the Premier+ packages

Recently went to the local MINI dealership and test drove a manual 2021 JCW with the Premier+ line and it felt so good to be sitting back behind the MINI steering wheel. Drive was fantastic, still has that zippy feeling even though the car felt beefier. A couple things that I'm still trying to get used to is the amount of tech that BMW has shoved into it (digital instrument cluster, heads up display, computer display in the center), and the center arm rest (which has to go imo).

I'm leaning towards the manual gearbox , however I have heard great things about the auto transmission from other MINI drivers, but I have read up a few things about the pros and cons about both. I will be looking into potentially modding the car in the future sometime down the road and because of it, I read on another forum that the auto gear box can't take as much torque as the manual one. Alot of people say that the auto is great for the more heavily traffic cities, however when slammed into sport mode it is still responsive and great to drive. By no means I'm a car expert, but I do feel as though driving manual, I feel more engaged with the car.

Knowing the differences stated on the websites and the numerous manuals and reviews online about the Premier and Premier+ lines, is it worth spending the extra money for the Premier+? Don't get me wrong the digital cluster and the heads-up display are really nice, but what more features can you get with the digital instrument cluster besides just showing your what a normal gauges would show?

Cheers,


I miss her everyday

 

I got a 2020 JCW Clubman about 8 months ago and the 8 speed AT is GREAT. Mind you it's different from the 7 speed tranny in the JCW Hatchback model (so is the engine and the brakes and the chassis, it's basically a BMW M235i with a Mini body). In the sport mode it revs higher for sure. I like it better than the 6 speed AT that I had in my 2014 JCW Coupe.

 

Go with the transmission you prefer. Both will handle the torque.

 

The 2021 JCW (3-door) has either an Aisin 6-speed manual or an Aisin 8-speed automatic. It’s the same automatic found in the ALL4 F60 and F54 since they were introduced, and the GP3. Though, I’m quite sure programming is different between the models. The manual is unique to the JCW hardtop, as the Cooper and Cooper S have Getrag manuals. I’ve heard folks say that the JCW’s Aisin manual isn’t quite as nice as the Cooper/Cooper S Getrag manuals, but I’m sure it’s still quite nice. Bottom line, you can’t go wrong with either transmission and the car will be tons of fun regardless, so choose whichever transmission ultimately tickles your wallet the most.