Hey everybody,

I'm here to learn about Minis. I've always thought they were cool so I'm considering one for my next car. I know they're supposed to be fun to drive and get good gas mileage. Since it will be my only vehicle I want to make an informed decision.

One question that I have is whether a Mini can handle a rough road. I live in Southern Arizona and sometimes need to drive on unimproved/rocky roads. It's not very often but it is a concern. Would I have to modify it before even trying? They're kind of low to the ground.

 

You may want to consider the Countryman...or Paceman models with increased ground clearance and availability of AWD.

 

People do add lift kits and big knobby tires, if it was me I'd go Jeep. I wouldn't spend much time on rough roads in my Countryman without lots of suspension mods. Gets pretty pricey, you could own 2 jeeps at that point.

 

In my opinion, Mini's have too sporty of a suspension to enjoy a dirt road. I have taken mine down them a few times but they rattle and shake everywhere. Perhaps the 4wd version might be worth looking into?

 

I looked online at the 4x4s and they're pretty expensive. Seems like a lot just so I can drive to the range once a month or so. I suppose I could always just bum a ride :-)

 

if you're looking for the pure MINI experience, I would recommend a hard top Cooper S. It's the no-compromise pocket rocket. If you need to off-road, borrow, beg, plead, rent or steal a car for the day.

 

I miss my 4x4 every weekend but the Mini is such a blast to drive I somehow get over it.

 

I could always get a motorcycle for when I have to drive on the bad roads :-)

 

I'm in Phoenix, have driven ours off road a couple of times. That said, mini is really not a dirt road vehicle. If you have to, you'll have to drive very lowly and watch out for ruts.