Back when the first gen came out, I saw the early R50-R53s on 15" wheels and hated them. I wanted big, so when I got my R53 I put 17" wheels on there without a second thought. Same again on the R55. Same again on the R60 (and was tempted by the 18" wheels even)...

Thinking now about the F56, and planning ahead for my next one, (Cooper Works, when available) it struck me that I haven't seen 15" wheels on MINIs in a long time. Were they phased out with the 2nd Gen line, or is it only now that 16" is the minimum?

My impression was that the smaller 15" rims intensified the go-cart handling concept. Not enough demand? Other factors? What led to the demise?

 

F56, 15" wheels


They're only available on the base model due to brake clearance issues. That started with the R56 I think. My wife's Clubman has 15" wheels on it too.

 

When I purchased my '10 sedan, it came with 15" wheels. When it came time to replace the tires, I bought 16" wheels for the new tires. When I ordered my new '15 sedan, one off the package I chose had the option of 16" or 17". I chose the 16" ones. I feel the 16" have a bit more side wall height & therefore a bit smoother ride. I live in an area with great curving roads & also some rough paving. I go fast but don't plan an competitions so I picked what I felt was the best compromise for my driving.