You sure about the regular fuel? I wouldn't run anything less than 91 in it. They're really good on fuel, so the premium isn't a big deal.

 

Yes I am sure. Page 113 of the manual under Required fuel. They recommend 91octane but state that the minimum octane on the base is 87 and on the S 89 octane.

 

I have ~ 2200 miles on my "Justa" CM now, and LOVE it! No regrets at all. I had an 07 MC, and loved it so I didn't doubt that I'd be fine with the non-S Countryman. I have the manual, so if I am going up a steep hill all I need to do it downshift- no biggie. I was hoping for 30 mpg but have been hovering around 29.5-29.9 so far. Like others mentioned, I was able to order lots of options that I really wanted and get a fantastic MINI for under $29,000.

 

will be mine. but with automatic and all the bells and whistles.

 

I'm another one that thought I had to have an S, but I just test drove a non-S for the first time today and was very surprised at how it drove. It's probably because I've been driving a base camry or a 4 cylinder nissan rogue for the last several years, but the non-S had more than enough power for me and I could be looking at a an MSRP of $26K rather than $30K. Even took the non-S up a pretty steep hill and it seemed to handle it fine. I agree with some of the other posts on NAM that the non-S has to work harder to get where it's going, but not much harder in my opinion.

However, I like the way the S grill looks and having that extra oomph would be so nice. I was firmly in the S camp until today. Now I'm on the fence, but with such a long wait to even order one I'll have plenty of time to make up my mind.

 

Oooohhh! I'm a base model owner! Yep yep yep! Personally, I was not a fan of the S-model's front grille. It sorely reminded me of a Tonka trunk.... >_>

 

Good luck on your quest. I really wanted an S, but couldn't justify the extra $7000 for the one i wanted over the base I purchased that has more options than some of the S models. Just not the extra horses. In the end, I am happy with my base. One thing I've realized is it is not a race car but is surprisingly quick for the hp it has. I have no regrets.

 

Blasphemy

 

My experience has always been that if I had an opportunity to order something, or configure a purchase in a way that would maximize its capability at a time when I really didn't think I needed the extra, then I was sorry for not doing so in the end. This has happened buying computers and cars.

 

LOL! Sorry, but it does. I still like some of the exterior features of the S-model, but the grille is what got to me. I prefer the grille on the base model because it looks less "plastic-y"

 

I agree with the appearance of the Non-S vs the S. Along with the price differential, I prefer the grill and rear end appearance of the Non S(which is what i have) Also, as my soon to be 16 year old daughter will be getting this car in a year, thought it best to keep her out of any "turbo" first car! I have an automatic, but use the manual mode when in traffic which enables me to pass the pack all the time.....

 

I purchased a CM Base and have zero regrets doing so. After owning multiple Turbo Diesel Ford Powerstrokes and Supercharged Ponitacs, I have finally decided I don't want to pay the expense to maintain these vehicles. I usually keep my cars well after the warranty is up. This has come around a bit me in the butt quite a few times. Simplicity and reliablilty are the key words for me!!

 

Although I don't own a CM, I'm started to see the wisdom in this line of thinking. The Turbocharged MINIs across the board seem to be inherently more fragile than the NA models.

 

I posted earlier in this thread about ordering a non-S or S probably late next year. I currently drive a 07 non S cooper. I said then I was glad about the feedback and something in my head keeps telling me plain non S countryman.

One question I have that maybe wasn't clear back then. Now that we are in the throws of summer and air conditioning is at times a must. Do you still feel your non S countryman has enough get up and go!? Particularly around town.

 

I've notice no major differences with the AC on. Maybe someone else can confirm, but I think the compressor for the AC is electric and not tied to the motor.....I may be wrong though.

 

Well...I have driven mine practically everyday this summer--most of the times with the AC on when passengers are with me--and I haven't sensed any lack of power. Actually, just last night, I decided to try out my sport button and it was a blast to drive! I say if your gut is telling you to get the non-S then, well, you know!

 

I'll go with my gut!! Non S 6 spd manual!

My R56 non S is a blast!!

 

I've had two MINI Coopers, both automatics with the base engine and loved them both. Thought they had peppy performance. I've had a base Countryman for three months now and it is VERY SLOW. I can make it peppier, but only by revving the engine. I miss the performance and handling of my Coopers. If you like pep, get the Countryman S!

 

i have a non S Countryman and have no regrets. I already have about 10,800 miles on it and love driving it. My other car is an EVO 9 MR so I actually have the option to drive a faster car so I didn't feel like I was missing out by not getting the S.

 

Are you sure? When I read the owners manual, it said to put premium. I don't remember reading anything about higher octane for higher temperatures. Wonder if there are different owners manuals depending on what state you're in. Oh I have the sport seat and they are great!

 

Yep! Minimum in the Cooper S is 89, Cooper is 87. I've attached the section of the manual that mentions it.

 

hmmm very interesting! its super hot here so i guess im sticking to 91 for now. thanks for the screen shot!

 

It's quite hot here in Texas as well, so I plan on doing the same just to be safe.

 

Note that it opens with "91 is highly recommended"

 

I have a Crystal Silver base model Countryman "da min 2" and i love it! I got it in the beginning of July and it has been excellent. I had a base 2010 Mini Cooper "da min" which i loved just as much but being hit 3 times when i was not at fault made me trade it in for a bigger one. I can say i am 100% happy with the decision. My sister has a "S" and although it is faster i can live with the difference. Considering the price difference i would go with it. Especially since my mini hit 31 miles per gallon today Good luck with the decision!