Last year I bought a 2011 Cooper and last week was my first chance to get it out on the open road. I have driven the original Mini's in Greece several times and loved the way they handled in the mountains.
The trip from Chicago to Myrtle Beach S.C. was amazing. The car blew away anything that I had heard of being small and not comfortable on long trips. It was just the opposite, dialing in the seat, radio, and cruise was very comfortable to drive. In the mountains nothing hung with me on the curves as many did try. The manual transmission and sport mode made this a force to be dealt with. Most cars were all over the road trying to keep up after being passed by a Mini, but finally gave up. Out of the mountains stopping for gas (42.9mpg) people would ask me about the car as you do not see many of them. One guy in a Mustang GT told me he was impressed on how it handled and had been looking for one in the past. He sat in the car and could not believe how much room this little two door had.
Prior to this I have had BMW's and was firm that BMW was the way to motor. Not anymore. I will be in a Mini for a long time as it will take a lot to part me from this one.

 

Congrats on the MINI. Sounds like a fun road trip. Post up some pics when you have the chance, of course with the new MINI.

 

Road trips are the best. Been to Myrtle Beach SC a ton of times! Glad you enjoyed!

 

Nearly 43 mpg is insane! I think you're too gentle with the Loud Pedal! Congrats!