I have been reading on the car mags that some of the new 'paddle shift' 5, 6 and 7 speed automatic transmissions are actually computer controller manuals. By that I mean that they don't have a torque converter, but clutches that are engaged by the transmission computer. Others are quoted as being standard torque converter type .
Anybody know about the MSCa?

 

MCSa is a conventional unit. It uses the aisin tranny

 

The MCSa 6-speed automatic gearbox is sourced from Japanese manufacturer Aisin. It is a regular slushbox with a torque converter and "Steptronic" manual control via gear shift lever or steering wheel mounted paddles.

The other much more desirable manumatic transmission type is called DSG (Sequential)(Offered in the BMW M3 and M5 for example) that allow for extremely quick and precise shift changes without having a clutch pedal.

Hopefully in the future, MINI will offer a true DSG type transmission, but unfortunately, BMW has been experiencing several issues with them in the higher end M cars.

 

Thanks for the info. It is still a blast to drive!

 

I test drove the MCSa and thought it was great.. Quick shifts and starts...
I spent some time with a SMG Z4 and was not impressed. The MCSa is matched nicely to the cars power.

 

I think you are referring to the SMG (as in Sequential Manual Gearbox) option. Out of curiousity, what issues are you referring to in your last sentance?

 

Which model Z4 has the SMG? I thought the SMG option was limited to the M cars. Also, what about the SMG did not impress you?

 

SMG is abrupt shifting.

BMW is still trying to get it better.

Funny thing is that the BMW techs I take out on test drives say that our Ferrari F1 and Maserati Cambiocorsa gearboxes shift smoother than the SMG.

 

Are you using a higher setting for the Drivelogic control? The higher (3+) settings definitely give a sensation of abrupt shifts (both up- and down-shifting); but that is by design. Try Drivelogic 1 or 2 settings if you want less abrupt shifts.

 

DSG is only on VW/Audi (and soon Porsche) products. It is an auto/manually controlled 6 speed unit with twin clutches. BMW's SMG transmissions are manuals with single clutch and electronic controls. SMG III is what is available on M3's and M5's and it does have some history of mostly electronic glitches on M3's (check any BMW forum.) The SMG that was on earlier Z4's is not the issue III and was so clunky it was discontinued. I know these transmissions equal progress over conventionals slushboxes, but I hope they never totally replace good ole 3 pedal manuals.

 

But is it a conventional (torque converter-based transmission)? I have gotten conflicting answers when I have asked the question (from SAs, no less... which gives me pause about buying a GTI with the DSG option).

Most of the software issues have been fixed on older M3's. Any issues with shift harshness/abruptness on the newer M3s and M5s are likely due to operator error/misunderstanding the function/use of the different Drivelogic settings.

I wasn't aware that a SMG option was ever available on the Z4. It is not available on the current M Roadster....

Actually, the SMG is a great way to avoid any claims of operator error regarding burned clutches. The actuation of the clutch is completely controlled by the SMG technology. SMG is also a way to avoid over-reving the engine - if you select a gear that would lead to over-reving, you don't get it, no matter how many times you press the gear selector. (Which also helps you if the engine does in fact over-rev; you have a great argument when you get acused of abusing the engine - your (BMW's) software allowed the shift....)

I for one would give up the clutch pedal in a heartbeat (I have had to - tendonitis in my left knee). The problem for the MINI is the packaging of SMG in a transverse layout. (Which is probably why the SMG option is not available on the M Roadster - not enough space between the engine/transmission and differential in the M Roadster; even though the Roadster is a longitudinal drivetrain package.)

 

I don't know about other VW, but the DSG in the A3 has no torque converter. I drove my buddy's, it's pretty insane -- shifting is instantaneous and ultra smooth. That's the car I would likely get, if I needed more space than my MCSa.