Mini Refines the Clubman and Countryman for 2019
Mini plans to launch updated versions of its two most commodious models this summer. While many of the refinements are incredibly boring (like a new particulate filter that adheres to new European emission mandates), there are tastier aspects to cherry pick. For example, the Clubman and Countryman gain receive upgraded transmissions in Europe — which hopefully carries over North America, as well.
The change replaces the standard automatic with a seven-speed Steptronic dual-clutch transmission. Tragically, that unit has already made its way into the smaller Cooper hatchback and has proven excruciatingly slow in making its way across the ocean. Still, why you would buy a Mini 2-door and not option it with a contrasting roof and manual transmission is beyond us. The impractical little car’s saving grace is its fun factor and visual appeal, and you should probably lean into both if thinking of buying one.
The bigger ships in Mini’s fleet sacrifice some of that fun for practicality and a more mainstream appeal, which is why it makes sense for BMW Group to get the DTC into them as soon as possible. Offered exclusively on gasoline models, Mini claims the new gearboxes offer noticeably faster shift times at cleverer intervals — improving both performance and fuel economy.
“In addition to enhanced driving fun, the design principle adapted from motor racing also has all the comfort features of an automatic transmission,” Mini said of the DTC. “It ensures harmonious and acoustically barely perceptible changes in drive position, free of load change reactions in the engine — not just when sprinting but also when decelerating.”
The addition of the new transmission also allows the brand to implement stop/start functionality and an adaptive coast setting that works with the vehicle’s navigation to maximize efficiency. Gear selection can be achieved manually. However, paddle shifters are only available on the more-expensive Cooper S models.
Mini is also offering the Clubman with a new Connectivity Package, which encompasses real-time navigation with traffic updates, Apple CarPlay, wire-free cellphone charging, and a Harman Kardon audio system. This is all managed through a 8.8-inch touchscreen and Mini’s Touch Controller, which allows you two write in letters rather than than selecting them on a keypad.
Officially, this news is for European customers only. But it’s presumed the updates will eventually make the trip to North America — assuming the brand decides to keep selling cars here. If it does, it might want to get the lead out.
[Image: Mini]
A staunch consumer advocate tracking industry trends and regulation. Before joining TTAC, Matt spent a decade working for marketing and research firms based in NYC. Clients included several of the world’s largest automakers, global tire brands, and aftermarket part suppliers. Dissatisfied with the corporate world and resentful of having to wear suits everyday, he pivoted to writing about cars. Since then, that man has become an ardent supporter of the right-to-repair movement, been interviewed on the auto industry by national radio broadcasts, driven more rental cars than anyone ever should, participated in amateur rallying events, and received the requisite minimum training as sanctioned by the SCCA. Handy with a wrench, Matt grew up surrounded by Detroit auto workers and managed to get a pizza delivery job before he was legally eligible. He later found himself driving box trucks through Manhattan, guaranteeing future sympathy for actual truckers. He continues to conduct research pertaining to the automotive sector as an independent contractor and has since moved back to his native Michigan, closer to where the cars are born. A contrarian, Matt claims to prefer understeer — stating that front and all-wheel drive vehicles cater best to his driving style.
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You keep saying "DTC" instead of "DCT" DCT = Dual Clutch Transmission DTC = Dynamic Traction Control (also a BMW acronym)
Until they create a rally presence with the Cooper it will remain a Hipster's bling