Does anybody know if MINI is going to get the dual clutch 7 speed auto transmission that BMW is using on one of the Z4 models?
I haven't seen anything on Motoring File. Since they just did the mid-cycle upgrade for the R56, there won't be a DSG until the new models come out in 2012 or '13 at the earliest. I don't think it would work for the Z4 transmission to go from a RWD car to a FWD car, though. Someone with more mechanical knowledge will have to fill us in on that.
That's not to say they can't build a FWD version of a dual clutch, and I think given Audi's sucess with it, especially in the A4 that they will sooner or later. The biggest problem with them is they are physically bigger than a regular transmission (and cost more, but that's beside the point with BMW - aka Break My Wallet .... ) so it will be more difficult to fit in the tight confines of a MINI. Honda just introduced a DSG for one of their bikes with a 127hp motor, if they can make one small enough and light enough for a bike, they should be able to build one for a MINI - however, the Honda one is only 2 speed.
Size is a problem for the MINI, but VW has a really nice unit and I would like to see MINI step up and offer one (only if they still offer the manual gearbox tho, will never give up the manual) As I see it the dual-clutch tranny should replace the torque-converter autos not the manual tranny.
You should always use care when turning the trannies around. Never know what you're going to find up front.