can you give an update on just how the the new JCW automatic goes? how does it shift. Is it faster than a Mini S with auto? What are your thoughts about the JCW with a automatic? My wife out votes me on the automatic, I have the six speed manual right now.

 

Hemisedan - - -
Not to threadjack but there is a thread that covers the Automatic trannies on our MINIs. However, a quick rundown:

1. I've driven manuals all my life. 34yrs on the road and this is my first automatic.
2. Even when in "manual" mode, the car "force shifts" at about 5200rpms. Guess this is the MINI's way of self preservation from idiots that would redline the car into the ground.
3. The car has plenty of guts and even when driving in auto mode, it has plenty of giddy-up around my area.
4. This past weekend I took the car out for a 4 hour back road test. I was able to do everything I wanted to and had good control of the car. Knowing that I had a limited rev range to work with, I was still able to work the curves and get spirited when needed. Just learning to use what I had, not wish for.
5. If my intent was to really push the car and its capabilities, ralleycross or race, a 6sp manual would be the only way to go. I do miss my clutch a bit but it's all good!
6. When I'm comfortable that the companies working on the N18 ECU flashes are ready for primetime, I will get that done for some more HP/TQ.

 

Thanks for the report. Sucks about the 5200 auto shift. I have looked all over for information on the upgraded automatic. Not much out there. Thanks again.