CanadianDriver recently posted their test drive of the R56 Cooper. Interestingly enough, their review car had the 6 speed automatic transmission.
>Though I prefer manual transmissions, I did enjoy the optional six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission in my test car. Gearing off the line is just right, allowing quick starts, and shifts are smooth and well-timed. The transmission shifts down automatically as you coast to a stop, or when braking while going downhill to help slow the car. But with just 118 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 114 lb-ft of torque at 4,250 rpm, there is a definite lack of mid-range torque, such as when pulling out to pass on the highway.
>However, the optional Sport mode (which is part of the optional $1,900 Sport Package) transforms the Cooper’s performance by adjusting transmissions shifting points higher, injecting an extra dose of power, and firming up the steering. Press the Sport button next to the transmission lever, and the Cooper seems to leap off the line, changing up automatically at about 4000 rpm instead of between 2000 and 3000 rpm. Acceleration feels much quicker and the car sounds and feels much sportier. My only complaint is that the engine revs higher when cruising creating more noise in the cabin.
[ R56 Cooper Automatic ] Canadiandriver.com
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He should have tried the MSC automatic transmission… a beauty… simply fantastic!!!!
For purposes of commuting, I think MINI has made big improvments to both auto and manual Coopers. Sport mode is great, paddle shifters are great, the 6-speed gearbox is great, combined w/ that more torquey engine…all in all a big step forward in making this car even more useful capable than before.
This is the first review of the R56 I can recall commenting on the weight gain of the new car. Interesting as most other reviews remark that the R56 Cooper S has lost weight relative to the R53. Hmmmm…
Too bad it wasn’t a review of the 6 speed manual, as the reviewer did a very thorough job.
Also somewhat surprising is the comment that the new steering feels better than the old – that does not align with my thoughts, however, I only had a half hour drive in the R56 vs. 3+ years of owning an R50.
>Also somewhat surprising is the comment that the new steering feels better than the old – that does not align with my thoughts, however, I only had a half hour drive in the R56 vs. 3+ years of owning an R50.
For what it’s worth; In back to back to back driving I’d say the steering has better weight in the R56 but lacks just a little bit of steering feel compared to the old car.
For those curious about the auto tranny, this couldn’t be a better description, IMO. Nice to see an MC review too.
At the same time, they also did a day-by-day of the MCS.
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