Cooper Hardtop

Make
Mini
Segment
Hatchback

Mini isn't done with the manual gearbox yet, and higher-ups inside the brand are trying to convince the beancounters that it's worth including a manual option in the range.

According to The Drive, who spoke to anonymous sources at Mini, the manual gearbox for the next-generation ICE models isn't finalized yet. "We obviously are lobbying hard to retain manuals where we can. It isn't finalized 100%," one source said. We are cautiously optimistic to see what can be done."

The source also stated that there was a 45% take rate on JCW manuals in the US, which makes a strong business case, even if it is just for a limited run. Mini could charge more for a manual gearbox, especially for cars like the John Cooper Works GP. It was only available with an eight-speed automatic, which is why the first-gen GP from 2006 is an icon, and the 2021 GP just isn't.

"I haven't been given advanced information on the next-gen internal combustion hardtops and convertibles yet, but has it been ruled out completely? No," the source explained. "But again, I think it's a matter of, 'Can the business case work? Will the business case work?' I mean, it doesn't take much to punch a hole in the floor of a car and put a gearbox in it. But until we get more product info, we won't know for sure."

The fact that the source mentions only punching a hole in the floor suggests the next-generation Mini Cooper will use the same BMW-sourced B48 turbocharged four-cylinder currently employed in various products. It produces 301 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque in the top-spec BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe and 255 hp and 295 lb-ft in more sedate products like the Z4.

The source also says that Mini's production decisions are sometimes driven by consumer demand, which is why these final few months leading up to the debut of the all-new model might be crucial.

Mini brought the manual back to America earlier this year. This followed a few months after it opened a stick driving school in California, noting an increased demand for younger drivers wanting to learn. We don't know what the uptake has been since Mini launched this program, but the Germans only tend to sign off on something if it's a sure thing.

The source also mentioned that Mini could keep the manual transmission alive in the electric era by developing a fake manual gearbox. According to the source, Mini is closely monitoring the development of faux gearboxes. Toyota filed a patent for manual gearboxes for EVs in 2022, and Hyundai is close to introducing the Ioniq 5 N, which will try its best to mimic the feel of a dual-clutch transmission. These are both routes Mini can take to make its famously engaging hatch just as fun to drive once it goes fully electric.

The next-gen 2-Door Hardtop will be fully electric, but the four-door version will allegedly continue to offer combustion power, perfect for saving the manual.