I found a lot of discussions about how good the MINI's are with handling in the winter, and as far as I can understand, driving in the snow does not seem to be a concern as long as you have good winter tires (which is now required by law here in Quebec between November and March). Unfortunately, I haven't found the answer I was looking for, so I'm taking a chance here, as the NAM seems to have a few members from Quebec, Canada.

So, I want to know how the MINI's are coping with the cold temperatures we are getting here in Quebec during winter. We often get a few days in a row below 20c and I'm wondering how good the MINI's are with that. Does it start easily? Does it have a hard time defrosting the windows? What about driving on the highway at -25, is the heater sufficient? I don't use my car to go to work, so I'm concerned about the car freezing the whole week and then trying to use it on Saturday morning...

Well, I think you get the idea. Any information on this topic would be appreciated. I'm looking into buying a Cooper S soon, but before I do I want to make sure I will enjoy the car as much in the winter as I would in the summer, as it will be my one and only ride.

Thanks, and I'm looking forward to post here as a new MINI owner soon!

 

http://www.arcticmini.com

 

I'm assuming you mean below "minus 20" C, since 20c s actually really quite comfortable (68F)...

Never a problem here in Pittsburgh, always just start 'er up and drive easy the first few miles (until the oil temp registers as coming up). Normal rules of maintenance apply (good battery, fresh fluids as necessary for the low temp conditions, etc.). Keep the gas tank topped up also - prevents condensation.