If you order a MINI, is the choice between purchasing or leasing made at that time?

For that matter, is the final price established at time of order, so that there are no surprises? Hoping to do better than MSRP although that seems to be the norm on ordered MINIs.

Finally, considering MINIs known expensive out of warranty maintenance costs, does anybody prefer to just lease 'em?

 

yes, you can. I just ordered a CM that I will be leasing. You can also negotiate the Cap cost as well. Just because its a lease, doesnt mean it cant be negotiated.
I am planning to lease mine because it 'just works better for ME'. Plans are to purchase it in 36mos IF its a solid car I want.

$7-1500 is what you should be able to get off msrp. Do your best to negotiate the pure-profit Doc Fee too.

I like leasing as it is basically an inexpensive 3yr 'test drive'. The only real down side in a lease vs finance is that the lease rates tend to be higher. (by 2-3%) and when you finance the ballon, they used car rate is significantly more than a new car finance rate.

You will save quite a bit by shopping around for financing/lease co.'s with lower points.
(if u mod the car, 2nd party lease co's can scrutinize the turn in a bit more)

 

Many threads out there about leasing vs. financing.

You typically negotiate the price and financing/leasing when you order and place a deposit. It may be different in the states, but you will sign a document that shows the price, options, financing, rate, etc. that you will pay. Some places will give you a better rate if MINI reduces later on but in my case I was unable to do so as I chose the financing ahead of time.

Price depends on the dealer and competition of nearby dealers (if any).

And yes you can order the exact car you want and lease it