Shift faster with MINI

Top MINIs with Six-Speed Automatic Transmission Both the MINI Cooper S
Convertible and the MINI Cooper S with its new six-speed automatic
transmission are making their world debut in Detroit. This light and
compact automatic transmission with Steptronic, adaptive management and
an extremely fast gearshift of only 1/4 second, gives the two top
models supreme agility, sporting performance, and the very best in
driving comfort. A hydraulic torque converter offering maximum
efficiency ensures a smooth gearshift, while the converter lock-up
clutch guarantees an equally smooth flow of power and superior fuel
economy. Despite its six gears, this new transmission requires a far
smaller number of gearshift elements, making it much lighter and more
compact than before. Perfect Balance of Sportiness and Comfort. On the
road the automatic transmission models offer truly impressive
performance almost as good as the manual gearbox versions of the MINI
Cooper S. Boosted by a compressor complete with intercooler, the
1.6-litre four-cylinder develops maximum output of 125 kW/170 bhp, with
torque of up to 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft at 4,000 rpm providing exactly the
right muscle for fast acceleration. Benefitting from this sporting
automatic transmission, the most powerful MINI reaches its top speed of
220 km/h or 136 mph (Convertible: 215 km/h or 133 mph) in fifth gear.
Accelerating from a standstill, the MINI Cooper S Convertible reaches
100 km/h in 7.9 seconds, the fixed-roof top model completing the same
exercise in an even faster 7.7 seconds. In the automatic mode the new
transmission offers the driver the choice of either a Sports (S)
program or a Comfort (D) setting, while also allowing the driver to
shift gears manually via paddles on the steering wheel (Steptronic). In
the process the electronic "brain" consistently monitors
driving conditions and adjusts gearshift characteristics according to
individual requirements. Market launch of the MINI Cooper S automatic
in the USA and Japan will be in late January 2005. In late February
2005 the MINI Cooper S automatic will also be available in Europe and
the other MINI markets. And late February 2005 will likewise be the
global launch date of the MINI Cooper S Convertible with this
innovative transmission.