Okay, here's the deal. The son has an 07 MCS, we have an 09 Clubman S and the daughter wants a MINI. (She's a smart girl!) But for the life of me, I can't talk her into a 6 speed. She does fine driving them, she just doesn't want one. Period! SO, I've been told 05's had the CVT and 06 was the first year of the non CVT in a justa. Does that sound right? If I had my way, I'd just grab a nice 05-06 MCS, but she's got a bit of a heavy foot as it is. The insurance took a beating with the boy child. Would rather not relive that, thanks! She'll be hitting a few autocrosses, so that should satisfy her need for speed and help with car control as well. I've been a autocross instructor with several local clubs and I swear, my kids are the hardest students ever! But back to the MINI, What years are safe in a Justa to dodge the CVT? Thanks!
2006 was the last year for the CVT in the Cooper Hatch, 2007 saw a completely different design in motor and trans (just like the rest of the car). It is hit or miss with the CVT...and there isnt one specific golden egg body/trans combo unfortunately. Good luck with your search.