I'm posting this in the JCW forum, as we are probably the only ones who'd consider doing this:

I have a 2024 F57 JCW. The F57 doesn't come with an optional manual, so I of course have the 8 speed auto. (Same as on the GP4.)
I'm happy with the car, and will only be adding an upgraded intake system and a mild tune, to hopefully gain more low-end torque.

But lordamighty, do I dislike this tranny when using the paddles ! There's practically time to have a cup of coffee while it changes gears.
(Oddly, it's much faster when in full-auto mode. Go figure.) I've talked to someone at Tremec, and it may be possible to get a manual tranny to work, but no guarantees and it would be very expensive. Also, I actually prefer paddles with a DC tranny.

SO I'M WONDERING:
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I've read that the reason Mini used the 8 speed torque converter for both the JCW and GP4 is because the current 7 speed DC can't safely handle the extra torque of those engines.
(Makes you wonder how folks are getting away with even stage 2 tunes on a non-JCW "S". Unless those are all with manual trannies.)

But the 2025 JCW will be coming with, to quote Motor1 magazine: "a revised 7 speed dual clutch (DCT) with JCW specific software for more aggressive programing which should decrease shift times." (No manual tranny will be offered, BTW.)

Woo HOOOOO !!!!

I would consider trading my 2024 in and getting a new one, except Mini has basically destroyed the dash panel and instrumentation, (IMO.)
Plus the body has changed, and not for the better. I think Mini has decided to put all of their time into the electric cars, which IMO is a HUGE mistake, but what can you do?
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And so, what do you think the possibility will be of purchasing and installing the new DC tranny into an earlier JCW?

I figure the engine and maybe suspension will be basically the same, but I believe there would be ECU / coding issues to deal with, not just mechanical. My overall knowledge on such mods is almost zero.

 

All this talk of trannies makes me want to take a ride down to Greenwich Village and have a cocktail.

 

I guess we'll have to wait until the F66 is actually in production.

Going by recent, more detailed pics and descriptions of the 2025 Mini's, there almost no chance I'll be trading in my 2024. 2025 is a total piece of cheese.
Good Lord, the've ruined the marque !


I sure do want that DC tranny, though.

 

I tried the paddles and they did nothing for me. The car is programmed to always make the decision for you regardless of your inputs. Basically it's just a complete waste of time and fuel.

 

Get the attention of your service department. I have 2 of the 8 speeds and at WOT they shift hard and fast with paddles, stick, or auto. If these are learning xmissions perhaps they can reset it back to square one.

 

I strongly disagree. Even in sport mode, the auto mode upshifts way too early, if you want to enjoy a sporty drive. Granted, the engine produces its maximum torque between 1250 and 4800 rpm, but the throttle feels a lot snappier at 4,000 than at 1250. And of course it sounds better. Auto mode rarely goes that high.

So, for those occasional times when you don't care about gas mileage and just want to have fun, the paddles let you rev higher before shifting. It's also something physical, which engages you more in the drive. Not as much as a manual, but better than nothing.


To each his own, I guess.