[brandonbardsley]

Thanks for all the replies, still waiting to hear from my 2 closest dealers to see if they can arrange for one to test drive. They don't seem to be returning my calls at the minute.

One of them told me It wasn't possible to test drive an automatic gearbox as MINI ' have not and never will make an automatic JCW'... this was after telling me he's worked for MINI for over 10 years.

Help ?

You're in Cheshire, which dealerships have you been to? I'm pretty sure Williams in Stockport have an Auto JCW in their showroom in BRG that I'm sure they'd be more than happy to let you drive.

Give Mel a call on 0161 477 5500 and say Brandon Bardsley's referred you - she'll do her best for you.

Or even try Kelly who sold me my SD at Halliwell Jones in Wilmslow, although I wouldn't recommend them as a dealer.