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MINI COOPER - Auto Express
30.05.2001 |
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Quick Step? 1st DRIVE
THE new MINI, BMW hopes, will have a little something for everyone. We've already tested the standard Cooper, and now we've had a spin in the automatic version - on the face of it the perfect model for drivers who spend much of their lives stuck in town and traffic jams.
The original Mini had the option of a conventional automatic 'box, which was slow, heavy and noisy. The new car has the latest electronically controlled Steptronic CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) gearbox that's smaller, lighter and faster. Until recently, CVTs did not have 'stepped' ratios (first, second, third, etc), they altered ratio on a continuous basis, keeping engine revs spinning in the heart of the power and torque bands.
However, this made it sound as if the clutch was slipping, which put off many buyers. But the MINI's CVT six 'steps' (hence the Steptronic name) make it sound more like a normal car. They also make the MINI more controllable and entertaining when driven in manual mode. The first clue that you're in the automatic car is that the gearlever isn't topped by the chromed ball of the manual model; it sprouts from a chic circular gate, styled to complement the interior, and features the usual automatic markings together with plus and minus symbols for the gearbox's manual functions.
Despite BMW's best efforts, the Steptronic still has the droning associated with CVTs. Under full acceleration it slurs and whirs, the pace of the car and the noise of the engine seemingly never in sync. If you're on and off the throttle, the system becomes unsure of what ratio and revs are required, and varies them with annoying frequency. The transition from ratio to ratio is extremely smooth, though.
In manual mode, you decide when to change gear, in theory. In practice the Steptronic will change up on its own if you approach maximum revs, and change down if you use full throttle in a high ratio. The system does give drivers a degree of extra control, but not enough to suit the enthusiastic character of the MINI.
More in keeping with the newcomer's style is the £500 glass sunroof option we tried when driving the Steptronic. Only the front panel moves, but press a one-touch button and it slides back and tilts to reveal a satisfyingly large opening.
Auto Express - 1st Opinion
THE £980 optional Steptronic automatic isn't in tune with the rest of the MINI's excellent dynamics, and despite its 'manual' mode keen drivers will always prefer the genuine article. And although the Steptronic is the latest generation CVT, it still makes disconcerting noises. To be recommended only if you drive solely in built-up areas.