All CM have actual "parking lights" in the lower front bumper no plastic inserts or fillers.
The fog lights option are integrated into the parking light assembly so the only time you know a CM has the fog light option is when they are turned on !

With parking lights on




With fog lights on

 

I assumed I would have holes since I didn't order fog lights, and was pleasantly surprised when I picked it up and realized there were lights there.

 

I'm pleasantly surprised now! I really figured it would have black inserts and would look really dumb. This explains why my image searches didn't produce any result.

Thanks to Jimbo and MCJoe for setting me straight on this.

 

So I'm seeing conflicting information on the Sport Button's effect on throttle response and acceleration. E.g. It tweaks the gearing on the automatic. And on the S, it makes a popping sound when decelerating.

So what does it do for a Base engine with the manual tranny? Anything? Or does it just make the steering heavier and do nothing for engine or drivetrain performance?

 

Will be putting in my order next week, and was wondering if I have missed anything. Base light white/white top/red color line/split rail/ mini connected/black wheels.

So there won't be a hole in the bottom bumper? There is a parking light there? is that correct?

Thank You!

 

From my experience, it tightens up the steering and does help you accelerate a bit faster. A few things that I either forgot to order or can't live without. Climate control (CLWO), front fog lights (forgot) HK sound (big difference over base). On the 13's Satellite radio is no longer standard (it's a 250 option) but they are giving you USB/Bluetooth as standard. One last item, check out the seats I had to order the sport seats. The std seats were difficult for me to sit in for more than 20 minutes of a test drive. The hardest part after ordering is the wait (about 10 weeks) I am sure that you will be as happy as we are after driving 15K in 10 months. Can't wait to order our second MINI next year.

 

Correct. I had the same concern. The online configuration tricks you into thinking nothing is there.

 

Thinking I should have ordered the sport seats. I'm tall, and there isn't enough support under my legs at the front of the seat. Not awful, but noticeable. Raising the seat a bit helped.

 

Refer to my post #51 above, no holes..you may also want to consider adding sport seats !

 

I got the S, so fog lights were standard. I would get the HK sound, center armrest! You might be lucky like me and get yours in less than 6 weeks!

 

Hi. I just ordered my very first MINI yesterday! It is a base Countryman Cooper. I also did not order many other options to keep in my budget. I was wondering if anyone can help me with an Ipod question. I did not get Mini Connected or Bluetooth and I'm wondering about playing the Ipod. My MA said to just get a 3.5mm auxiliary jack and that it would play the Ipod through the speakers but I'm not sure if I can operate the Ipod through the stereo buttons or the steering wheel buttons. Does anyone have any info on this? I currently use an fm radio transmitter to play my Ipod on my current car and it's not ideal. Also, is their a USB plug even without the Bluetooth function? I've heard about a "Y-cable" that will charge/play your Ipod but I don't know if that will work if you don't have the Bluetooth function.

I was also going to ask if ambient lighting is standard on the base but some nice person in another thread already told me yes!

Thanks for your help and I'm so happy to be a part of the MINI clan!

 

Ive seen pictures of the split rail where there is ambient lighting in the back part of the rail. My MA told me that only the front part of the rail will light up. I'm getting the split either way, but does anybody know which is correct?
Thanks!

 

I'm a week in with my Base CM (manual gearbox) and I've some general obsevations:

1. The car does not have low-end torque
2. The ratios between 1st and 2nd are too far for this engine
3. 5th gear is pretty much worthless. Better mileage in 6th, not enough revs to pass or get up steep hills, so I often drop to 4th or 3rd.

That said, I've started to learn the key shift points and this engine does love to rev (and sounds awesome doing it). Doesn't mean I wind it out (I rarely take it above 5000) but its important to know where the powerbands are.

I will say, while its not an S, this car is not the dog it's made out to be if you know what you're doing--it is plenty zippy and fun. Though I don't know that I'd want an Auto in the Base, but with the paddle shifters it's probably ok.

 

[QUOTE=RagnarDanneskjold

I will say, while its not an S, this car is not the dog it's made out to be if you know what you're doing--it is plenty zippy and fun. Though I don't know that I'd want an Auto in the Base, but with the paddle shifters it's probably ok.[/QUOTE]


No paddle shifters on the base, but you can still stir your own with the stick !

 

I have the split rail and it lights up in the back as well! Ambient lighting is one of my favorite features of the CM!

 

I have the same set up - no blue tooth and no connected. I bought a 9 dollar cord at Radio shack that plugs at the top of the rail that plays your iPod though the "Aux" setting. Your steering wheel controls won't forward songs though - you can only change the volume up or down. To forward songs or choose playlists you have to do this on your actual iPod - it won't show on radio center console display.

 

Oh thank you so much!! I've been wondering about this. I'm glad you can control volume through the steering wheel at least. Is there a USB jack next to auxiliary still or is it just left off since there is no Bluetooth/Mini Connected? I was wondering if I could charge the Ipod using it's own USB cord at least.

 

Trying to wait patiently for mine. I have been seeing them more frequently in South Louisiana though.
Ordered 6/15/12, Finished production 7/2/2012, estimate me in the seat 8/7/2012.


Light White/Sport Package/ 18" turbo spoke in Silver/ Auto/ White roof/ Dual Pane panoramic sunroof/ rear bench seat

 

My wife and I changed our mind last minute because of the freeway issue. There are a couple bad traffic spots around me where you have to get up to 70+ and merge quick or you are stuck waiting for a looooooonnnggggg time.

The base I test drove had paddle shifters. They didn't help the auto out much though. If we were getting manual I would have stuck with a justa. I hope you guys enjoy them.

 

I have been driving the base CM with steptronic for 10 months and 15K miles. Do I wish I had the S? Sometimes but most of the time I absolutely love Betty. Once I learned how to use the steptronic in conjunction with the non turbo motor I was good with it. Transmission is awesome once you figure out the use of sport mode by sliding the lever to the left. I constantly get 30+ mpg plus she will run on 87 octane providing that the temps aren't in the 90+ range. Even though I love her, I am thinking about ordering an S and either a convertible or Roadster but not until 2013.

 

I'm picking up my base countryman from Main Line Mini in Philadelphia today! Light coffee, with automatic transmission, bluetooth, and the bench seat. Can't wait to get my new Mini!

 

Jonathan, I know how you feel!!! 10 months ago we did the same thing only we took delivery from Princeton MINI. Betty has been one heck of a performer. The engine works perfectly with the steptronic. Don't be affraid to use the sport mode after the break in period. and make sure you read the manual especially the section on the fuel requirements. surprise is that you can use 87 octane with the exception of extreme heat. Enjoy your CM.

 

Had a great time driving it today. Dealer said I should use 89 octane...

 

Congratulations! Pictures?

 

Honestly, I just don't think I can afford to own an S MINI

Between the gas, maintenance, and speeding tickets I'd surely get!

My previous Justa was a trooper and while it had it's issues I think nothing was out of the ordinary or so expensive that I couldn't afford to fix it.

Before I bought the CM I came to the board seeking advice and got a fair amount of unsolicited advice that I should "get an S because the Justa would be too underpowered". It's only been 2200 miles but I'm very happy with my choice!