I need to replace my 2009 base that had a Manual trans.

There are more automatics than manuals available. I'm trying to keep to 2009 and newer R56. 2011 and 2013 models seem to be thought of as more reliable.

What are your experiences as to gas mileage, dependability and other impressions of R56 Base manual vs auto?

 

I learned driving in a '49 Chevy with 3 on the tree then various farm trucks. My 1st 2 cars were British roadsters and getting some track time and solo. My co-pilot's car is a '16 R60 with auto gear box, near puts me to sleep driving it. If you want the feel of the road, go manual.

 

The Aisin 6-speed – though more reliable than the older CVT – is not a disaster, but from what I've read I wouldn't say it's a paragon of reliability either. I suspect the biggest issue is fluid changes: Mini says the fluid is "lifetime", but the smart move is to replace it probably every 30-60K miles. My expectation is that most cars you're going to look at are going to be higher-mileage and have never had the transmission fluid changed, which could be a risk. How big a risk I can't tell you, but a rebuilt transmission is going to cost you more than the car is worth.

The R56 automatic drives well enough but if you're used to a manual it's kind of a letdown as it makes the car less sporty IMO. It's not a dual-clutch design so I find the manual shifters are pretty useless because they shift so slowly: I wouldn't count on using those.

If you're buying a higher-mileage manual there's always the risk it'll need a new clutch soon, but that's cheaper than replacing an automatic transmission. Mileage-wise I wouldn't expect any noticeable difference.