MINI has long promised a “go-kart feeling,” but what does that mean in the modern era of drive-by-wire systems and synthesized engine sounds? We’ve taken a deep dive into what GoKart mode actually does and how it does it on all MINI’s petrol models. And most importantly, does it work in bringing more joy to motoring?

MINI Cooper

The Four Pillars of Go-Kart Mode

Activating Go-Kart Mode adjusts several key aspects of the vehicle’s dynamics:

1. Throttle Mapping

Go-Kart Mode sharpens throttle response by reducing the pedal’s “dead zone,” allowing for more immediate acceleration. This tuning provides a more direct connection between the driver’s foot and the engine’s output, enhancing responsiveness during spirited driving. Importantly the mapping reduces the previous generations throttle deadzone dramatically and delivers the most responsive throttle response for generations.

2. Transmission Behavior

In Go-Kart Mode, the transmission holds gears longer before shifting, keeping the engine in its optimal power band. This behavior ensures that power is readily available when needed, such as during overtaking maneuvers or spirited cornering. Critically where MINI’s previous automatic would feel jerky and unrefined in Sport Mode, the new DCT delivers a more aggressive experience with fluidity while delivering an aggressive feel.

3. Steering Weight

The steering system adjusts to provide increased resistance, offering a heavier and more connected feel. This change enhances feedback and allows for more precise inputs, contributing to the overall sporty character of the drive.

4. Engine Sound Enhancement

To complement the dynamic changes, Go-Kart Mode introduces a synthesized engine sound within the cabin. This audio feedback, inspired by the B48 engine’s natural tones, aims to enrich the driving experience without relying solely on the actual engine noise, which is often subdued due to sound insulation. 

5. Suspension

On the U25 Countryman, MINI offers electronically controlled dampers which get 10% more stiff in Go Kart mode.

MINI Cooper

The Hidden Transmission Sport Mode

It’s important to note that while Go-Kart Mode influences transmission behavior, it is distinct from the transmission’s “Sport” mode in JCWs and “Low” mode in normal MINIs. Engaging Sport or Low mode via the gear selector further alters shift timing and responsiveness, offering an even more aggressive driving experience. You can engage this by clicking down a second time on the toggle. Combining Go-Kart Mode with Sport mode can maximize performance characteristics, particularly in models equipped with the 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

Suspension Dynamics: From Electronic to Mechanical

Previously, MINI utilized (optionally) electronically controlled suspension damping on all models (as they do with the U25 now) to adjust ride stiffness in the previous version of Gokart mode (Sport mode). However, starting in 2021, the brand transitioned to frequency-selective mechanical dampers on the Cooper models. This change simplifies the system while still providing a balance between comfort and performance. In Go-Kart Mode, the suspension’s characteristics remain consistent, relying on the mechanical setup to deliver the desired handling dynamics. We’ll have more on this change tomorrow.

MINI countryman

A Mode That Lives Up to Its Name?

Go-Kart Mode brings a genuine transformation to how modern MINIs respond to driver inputs. While the previous generation’s Sport mode could occasionally feel a bit unrefined, Go-Kart Mode manages to enhance performance without any apparent drawbacks. We’d love to see MINI continue to evolve this feature—perhaps with greater personalization or even user-tunable settings, much like BMW’s M modes—but as it stands, we like the direction MINI is headed.