Mini, a brand known for its commitment to manual transmissions, has officially announced that it will no longer offer a manual option for its redesigned Cooper hatchback. Speaking at the 2023 Munich auto show, brand boss Stefanie Wurst confirmed that neither the electric version nor the upcoming gas version of the Cooper will come with a manual transmission.
The decision to eliminate the manual option comes as no surprise, as Mini had already hinted at this shift in May when it unveiled the special 1to6 Edition version of its outgoing hatch. This limited-edition model was intended to celebrate the manual transmission, indicating that it would soon be phased out.
While the exact start of sales for the new Cooper in the U.S. has not been announced, it is expected to arrive as a 2025 model. Alongside the Cooper, Mini has also revealed a redesigned Countryman for the 2025 model year, as well as a smaller crossover named the Aceman, set to complete the next-generation Mini lineup.
The demise of the manual transmission at Mini is part of a broader industry trend. In June, a senior executive at Mini’s parent company, BMW, confirmed that both the manual transmission and dual-clutch automatic transmission were on their way out. Instead, conventional torque converter-based automatic transmissions are deemed more suitable for the transition to electric vehicles.
Mini conducted a survey earlier this year, revealing that nearly half (49%) of the Gen Z respondents did not know how to drive a manual transmission. However, when asked if they were willing to learn, 53% of Gen Z respondents expressed interest in learning how to operate a manual transmission. This percentage increased to 67% when including all age groups up to 34 years old, indicating a continued interest in manual transmissions among younger generations.
Recognizing the demand for manual transmission education, Mini has been offering a manual transmission driving course since last fall. The course takes place at the BMW West Coast driving school located in California, specifically at the Thermal Club private racetrack. However, with the brand’s decision to drop the manual option, it remains uncertain whether the driving course will continue.
The shift away from manual transmissions represents a significant change for Mini and highlights the evolving landscape of the automotive industry. As electric vehicles continue to gain popularity, automakers are focusing on developing transmissions that are optimized for electric drivetrains. By offering superior efficiency and performance for electric powertrains, conventional automatic transmissions are becoming the preferred choice for automakers.
While it is undoubtedly a transformative time for the automotive industry, it is essential to recognize the legacy and charm that manual transmissions have offered for enthusiasts over the years. Manual transmissions have provided a unique driving experience, allowing drivers to feel more connected to their vehicles. Despite the decline in popularity, there will always be a group of passionate drivers who appreciate the art of rowing their own gears.
In conclusion, Mini’s decision to abandon the manual transmission option for its new Cooper hatchback reflects the broader industry trend of transitioning to automatic transmissions, particularly for electric vehicles. While the decline of manual transmissions may disappoint some enthusiasts, it aligns with the industry’s focus on optimizing transmissions for electric drivetrains. Despite the loss of the manual option, Mini remains committed to providing an exceptional driving experience and continues to innovate in other areas of automotive technology.