Hello.

I just adopted "Zoee" a 2 weeks ago. She's a 2006 pure silver MCS in automatic. 50k miles. Still very clean.

I'm still getting used to her and have a few questions if you don't mind the newbie-ness of this.

1. I read that Minis have a CVT tranny? Not the S models right? I feel/hear the tranny change gears.

2. I test drove some non S models. They are SO much more smoother than the S models? changing gears, ride quality, etc. what gives? I thought the S models were the upgrade?

3. I read some poor reviews for the mini tranny. How are they with the auto 06 S versions?

4. The MSC's tranny seems a bit "hyperactive" compared to other cars I've had/driven. As soon as it's under 2k in the rpms, it likes to downshift in gears. Especially when climbing hills, it may not want to change until it's at 4k-5k?!? is that normal? I find myself using the paddle shifters to change it as I feel bad when the engine revs so much.

school me!

 

The MCS has a conventional automatic (non CVT) that has proven very reliable over the years. Yes, the transmission can appear "hyperactive" due to the gearing of the six speeds. You can use the paddle shifters to tailor the shifts more to your liking - that's what I do.

 

ah. thank you. that explains the "hyperactive" nature.

i also use the paddle shifters also to change gears at 3-4 instead of 4-5...anyway to 'program' the transmission to do this? (maybe a silly question)

 

I agree with the car on this one