The way the CVT in this base model yo-yos trying to "find the right gear" is awful, particularly in hilly or mountainous terrain. Fortunately Cooper discontinued this transmission the year after we bought ours. Too bad for us.
We have the convertible which is loud top up or down. This is to be expected. Given how much fun the car is, even with the CVT, the noise is worth it.
The rear seat is usable only as a package tray, though it does serve to hold a second carry-on bag.