Hello forum, just introducing myself. I'm looking to downgrade a little from my current car, which is a 2010 Dodge Challenger SRT. Although its a great car, it offers a lot of performance that I rarely get to use. Also, my monthly payment is fairly high and my priorities have changed since buying it (who would have thought turning 30 would do that?). Now I want to save money while still having a fun and more economical car to drive, which brings me to the world of Mini. I'm currently looking at a Mini Coupe. I havent taken one for a test drive yet (I will be doing that this week on my way to Atlanta) as the closest Mini dealer to me is 4 hours away in Memphis (I live in Arkansas).

I do have a question or two though for some of you with some miles on your vehicle. How is the ride on less than perfect roads? I wont be getting one with sport suspension, as I do a lot of traveling and would like the best possible ride. Also, is the Mini Connect only compatible with iPhone, or does it work with Android as well? If not I may just stick with the standard audio package since I tend to customize the audio in my vehicles anyway.

 

On my 2012, the ride is actually pretty nice. I had heard that some of the earlier models were a bit lacking and maybe they focused some on it this year. Living in Iowa, the roads suffer a LOT of winter abuse and are filled with buckles and potholes... but it is pretty doggone nice.

 

Welcome to NAM
The newer 2nd gen R56 has a much more compliant suspension than the prevoius gen 1 car, even in sport suspension set up. Although run-flat tires that MINIs come with are inherently jarring in character most suggest going to non-run-flat tires after the stock RFT wear out. Also, stick with the 15 nor 16 inch wheels for more comfortable ride. Not sure about "Connect" but seems everything is iPhone centric nowadays!

 

If you want to upgrade in the future get the base stereo. The upgraded unit will have a factory amp, odd OHMs per channel, and weird crossovers that will be expensive and complicated to rework when it comes time to up the system. MINI Connected is iPhone only.