Hey guys, im in a semi-similar situation as the OP. This is actually my first post here so hello! Anyway, I'm still not sure if I want to get a Mini Type S because the car I had planned on getting was originally a 08 WRX but as gas prices continue to rise, the Mini is looking better and better! Anyway, I wont get too much into that. I have a few questions about the whole Mini purchasing experience...

I've heard a lot about these cars being in such high demand that most dealers charge a significant mark up. Typically, I'm use to the, "never pay MSRP" mentality but I guess I may have to change. I'm planning on purchasing a car toward the end of the year but I like to do my research well before I open my wallet.

On to the questions! I know I want the type s with the DSC, Xenons, LSD, and auto dimming mirror. But are there any other options you would recommend? Also, can you start the car with the key in your pocket like the Corvette? or does it have to be inserted in that slot... Another question is... is an aftermarket sound system even possible? I would like to get an aftermarket NAV unit like the AVIC D3 but looking at the photos, it seems quite impossible. I'm aiming to spend up to 26k before taxes but anything less would be a major plus! Also... how is the reliabilty of the Mini, typically I imagine BMW as a reputable company with an OK reliablitly rating... should i be worried about keeping this car for a long time? Thanks!

 

Production volume has been increasing. A number of dealers are dropping the over MSRP markup, but few, if any, are selling below MSRP. Typically, the lower priced dealers have longer wait times because their immediate allocations are all sold out.

The Multi-function Steering Wheel is a must. It has cruise control and some audio controls. Very nice to be able to change the volume without taking your hand off the wheel.

I very much like the integrated NAV and Park Distance Control. However, this is a very expensive option. Check the Navigation/Audio section of the 2nd Gen. forum. There is a thread about a Garmin Nuvi 660 that might be helpful.

The rear fog lamps are fairly inexpensive, improve the looks, fill a blank slot on a toggle switch panel, and may save your butt in heavy fog.

Heated seats are very nice. The heater/AC in the MINI is not very robust.
There is a Comfort Access System option that gives you the fob-in-pocket access. This is part of the Convenience Package, but can be ordered separately. Otherwise, you have to put it in the slot.

Not really. The audio system is highly integrated into the other systems. IMO, the best option would be to get the HIFI upgrade and swap out the speakers.

You can add an aftermarket NAV, but it isn't as integrated into the other systems as the factory system. Also, the factory NAV looks much better than the pie plate speedo.



It isn't a Honda. BMW's record isn't that good. It is somewhere between the Japanese reliability and the American lack there of.

 

Some would regard any of the options as "fluff" while others will consider them necessary. Only you can decide what is important to you. The test isn't what we think. What you need to ask yourself is "Am I going to regret not getting this 6 months or a year from now? Am I going to notice it's absence every time I get in the car?" The regret of missed opportunity remains long after the price is forgotten.

 

The Webspokes are the lightest OEM wheels available on '06 MINI's, so heavy is relative here. I went w/ aftermarket wheels, but if I was going to shave some unsprung weight w/ OEM wheels, Webspokes would be the way to go.

 

wow, thanks for that thourough reply!! i guess that means back to the mini configurator once again!