Mini Cooper D DCT 2017 first drive

For the first time in its 17-year history, the BMW-era Mini hatchback is being offered with a dual-clutch transmission (DCT).

While the first-generation Mini used a CVT automatic transmission, more recent versions have utilised torque converter units as the alternative to a manual. From early next year, however, a seven-speed DCT will be offered in the UK on One, Cooper and Cooper D models, with further versions to follow suit later in the year.

Mini hasn't offered a dual-clutch transmission until this point because they’ve typically been bigger, heavier and more complicated than conventional automatics. Now, though, drivetrain specialist Getrag has developed an electronically - rather than hydraulically - actuated twin-clutch unit that’s as compact as a regular auto.

Mini says it offers faster gearshifts than the outgoing six-speed automatic, as well as modestly improved fuel efficiency, thanks in part to the additional ratio. It too will carry a £1345 premium over the manual.

For the time being, the new DCT will not be available with steering wheel or column-mounted paddles. Manual shifts can be made using the gear selector, though, and paddles will become available on sportier models later on. The new transmission is rated to a maximum torque output of 221lb ft, which means it will eventually be offered on all but the 2.0-litre diesel models and top-spec John Cooper Works. 

We tested the new gearbox in a Cooper D five-door hatchback.

The extra inertia of a diesel engine compared with a petrol means upshifts can only be made so quickly. In practice, then, and with the gearbox in manual and Sport mode selected, the new transmission doesn't seem to swap to a higher ratio any more urgently than the previous auto. In normal use, though, upshifts do feel appreciably sharper with a less pronounced torque interruption. Shifts are smooth and unflustered, too. Incidentally, Mini is not quoting comparative gearshift times for the two transmissions.

The new gearbox also offers more precise control over downshifts in manual mode, whereas the old automatic would occasionally ignore the driver’s input. Mini's engineers say they worked extremely hard to ensure the car’s low-speed comfort wasn’t adversely affected by the new transmission. In fact, they claim that in back-to-back tests, the DCT was smoother and more refined than the auto. Out on the road, you do sense the same busy, ever so slightly clunky downshifting that’s typical of twin-clutch transmissions when slowing to a halt, but it’s hardly enough to mark the new gearbox down.