MINI Gets a New 7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission for 2018
The MINI 3 Door, 5 Door and Convertible models have gained a new seven-speed dual-clutch transmission for the 2018 model year.
The new transmission promises speedier upshifts and improved fuel economy for the three smallest MINI models. It will replace the six-speed Steptronic automatic transmission in the vehicles and will be offered with all available engines. The six-speed manual transmission remains the standard option.
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Joining the new transmission is a different electronic gear lever, which will return to its original position after selecting a gear – much like other BMW vehicles do. The new lever also features a ‘P’ button for the parking lock and an ‘S’ position, which enables a sport mode and manual shifting from the steering wheel-mounted paddles. The transmission also uses navigation data to manage shift points in full automatic mode and support the start/stop function for the engine.
MINI says the double-clutch transmission features a crawl function that enables smooth acceleration from a stop without pressing the accelerator. This increases passenger comfort in stop and go traffic and is an especially important feature on a dual-clutch transmission – which were previously known to be jerky and somewhat unrefined around town. A dual-mass flywheel with a centrifugal pendulum also helps to reduce vibrations and noise at low RPMs.
The MINI 3 Door, 5 Door and Convertible are available to order now with the new 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.
Discuss this story on our MINI forum.
Sam McEachern holds a diploma in journalism from St. Clair College in Windsor, Ontario, and has been covering the automotive industry for over 5 years. He conducts reviews and writes AutoGuide's news content. He's a die-hard motorsports fan with a passion for performance cars of all sorts.
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