Do you actually rest your arm there or is it just in the way?

As I understand the configurator, the center armrest option does not include any phone connection unless you are ordering a Wired Package. Without the WP you get a small storage space only. But in all cases the armrest position is adjustable including a fully up position.

I wouldn't mind paying the $250 if it actually adds to driver comfort. What's your experience with the armrest - something you'd buy again? Thanks.

 

In the way, we keep it folded up.

 

Mostly in the way. I store my garage door opener in it (the GD opener on the RV mirror not available on my car because of the different roof)

 

If you're getting the Visual Boost headunit and want Bluetooth audio, the armrest comes with the required Media Package. The phone connection is useless unless you want to spend $250 on a snap in adapter for an iPhone that provides little more functionality over plugging it into the USB port. I use my armrest to store pens, a tire gauge, and mints.

I like it as long as it's in the down position and wouldn't want to have my car specced without it.

 

Personally I'd go crazy not having an armrest. Mine is a manual and I never find it to be in the way. It actually fits me perfectly and I keep my arm on it while shifting.

What the heck are you supposed to do with your right arm while driving if you don't have the armrest?!

 

I have a manual and the armrest.

I leave it in the up position in the city, and on long trips I put it down to its lowest. Still glad I have it. Does not affect shifting much. If I had an automatic it would pretty much be a must have option.

 

I'm on my second MINI now (both were custom ordered) and I debated the addition of an armrest for an agonizingly long time so I rented one and tried a few days with an armrest and I was surprised that I would have been unhappy if I equipped my MINI thusly. Driving style and my physical size (short & wide) were the determining factors. I position myself fully forward and both hands on the wheel in order to snap the paddle shifters. It's just a personal preference but you should try it both ways - you might be surprised.


ISAMIN

 

Always use mine ...manual here also.

 

In the way. I took mine out.

 

I have an F55 auto with armrest. When I'm not using it, I still keep it down, and slide my arm closer to my side. A little added storage too.

 

I have an F55 and an arm rest. I do like the arm rest - I wore a spot in my previous car's.

 

Have manual and the armrest. At first, it seemed to be in the way of shifting. Now, I just place it in the lowest position, and it is no problem for shifting. I actually like it now.

 

I drive a manual and I like the armrest. Like the others I set it to the lowest setting which makes shifting more comfortable and I'd say easier access to the controller.

 

Auto and I love it. I have to have it down, and usually push it one or two notches below the normal locked position. I drive in Sport/Sport (Sport mode, and Sport shifting) 99% of the time, so I like to rest my hand near the shifter if I'm too lazy to use the paddles. Part of the reason I got the Wired Package was for the armrest. I didn't have one in my last car, and I constantly wished I did.

 

auto and use my arm rest 90% of the time I'm driving

 

The armrest is part of a package I'm interested in. Every test drive I've taken, moving the armrest out of my way has been the first thing I've done. I wish they had a 'delete' option for that on the packages.

 

On an auto I'd say it's a must have considering your arm does nothing. Nice on a manual as well though.

 

I have a '13 base hardtop automatic. I added one and am very happy with it. Not only is it convenient for storing 'small stuff' but I use it as an arm rest all the time. It does make using the emergency brake a little difficult but there aren't that many occasions when I use the e-brake.

 

I have to have an armrest!!! I always use it!!

 

What happened to 10 & 2?

 

I like it a lot. Perfect resting position for me when it is down.

 

I like to sit back from the steering wheel, so the armrest is not in the way and I do rest my arm on it. If I sat very close the steering wheel, I may not feel the same way.

 

10 and 2 is the way to go when in traffic. It's not so necessary when you're on a long stretch of lonesome highway.

 

ditto

 

Eh the hell with them!