So, today was errand day. I zipped all over southern Fairfax County in somewhat busy traffic with the a/c on the whole time. I decided to try the following...
ASC off
Sport mode on
auto A/C button on
max A/C button on
Average temps from 90 to 95 degrees all afternoon.

Wow, the MINI does well in this much heat with these settings. Within a few minutes, the inside of the car is comfy, no sweating on my part! And with sport mode and no ASC getting in the way, the car is a little rocket-ship. Very nice. I was initially disappointed by the A/C system as it seemed under-powered. I have changed my mind, it's good, and no engine lag! Now I just need some summer wheels and tires. *Must work harder to save money!*

 

yeah the auto a/c work great for me.. just adjusted to the temp you want! Perfect!
better than other cars auto a/c!

 

I can't wait to finally have auto AC/climate control in my car! My parents have had it in their cars for years. Super great invention if you ask me!

 

I agree too, and I am in south Florida, best ac unit that Ive had ever. can handle anything that I throw at it.

 

I opted for the manual a/c and spent the money on the JCW Aero Kit.Q

 

When you turned on the AC, did you feel or notice any power drop, slight or not? How about the effect of AC on mileage?

 

Mileage...not sure but there must be some effect. Let's see what we can discover as summer progresses. It's still early.

Power drop...less than with my '03 Cooper is seems.

Overall, based on my experience w/ both, I'd say the R56 AC unit is a notch up from previous in its cooling capability.

 

I don't use my ac that much. I don't need it in the morning going to work, and my commute home is only 10 miles so I just bear it. I really like the window open feature of the key fob. The car is significantly cooled down when i walk up to it.

With the MC when I have used it I don't notice any real power drain, but expect the mileage will drop some. On the freeway, at least in our two hondas on long trips I get no difference in mpg with air on vs window open. I think the air conditioning pull is balanced by the decreased drag of having the window open at freeway speeds. Around town it drops a few mpg though.

 

The only problem that I have with mine, is the temperature display. On a 95 degree day, I have to set it on 62 to be comfortable. I've tried to locate the temp sensor, but as yet, have not been able to find it.

 

I have noticed no power drop when my a/c is on. In fact, I can't even tell when the compressor kicks on/off. The only noticeable change is that the car idles slightly rougher when running the a/c at max. I have never cut off the asc, either, and rarely have the sport button engaged. My commute is in moderate to heavy traffic.