by Mini is abandoning manual transmissions
Minis were never the fastest or most efficient cars, but they offered a unique driving experience — responsiveness, excitement, and a connection to the road. For many years, this experience could be had with a manual transmission, but now that option is finally gone.
Despite a short-term surge in demand, Mini has decided to keep only automatic transmissions in its lineup. Back in 2023, the brand announced it was phasing out the “manual,” and this is now confirmed as final.
Why did Mini abandon the “manual”?
“For the previous generation, [the manual transmission] was part of the uncertainty due to wiring harness issues from Ukraine. We had to prioritize automatics, which were in higher demand,” said James Orlov, Mini’s product manager.
Only 3% of buyers chose the manual transmission, making it unprofitable due to testing and certification costs. Furthermore, new EU7 environmental regulations make using such transmissions more difficult.
“There are no plans for manual transmissions. Demand for them is very low, and emission requirements make them even less attractive,” added Alex Brockhoff, General Manager of Mini in Australia and New Zealand.
Only some premium cars with manuals remain on the market, and affordable models with a manual gearbox are quickly becoming rare. This is a global trend that has affected not only Europe but also the US and Australia. It seems the era of the “manual” in the mass market is coming to an end.
On one hand, this is a logical step for manufacturers focused on the mass market. On the other hand, for car enthusiasts who value control over the vehicle, it is a loss. Perhaps in the future, manual transmissions will remain only in niche models or become an object of nostalgia.
