I've been looking at minis for a couple of months now, but I'm pretty slow to purchase anything without research. I'm hoping to buy or order one this weekend, but I had some questions.

I've got a 45 mile commute (each way) daily and was really looking for a '11-12 MCS due to the new engine and better MPG. However, having trouble finding something used with a tech & sports package, so I'm getting pushed into new purchase. However, the 2013's will be out soon, so I don't know if its a good idea to wait for them or order a 2012. Opinions?

I really like the tech package, but I haven't heard much about how well it performs. Whats the general opinion of the MINI connected feature and is it worth it?

I'm in the Charlotte, NC area if anyone has a lead on a quality used MCS.

Thank you

 

Given your preferences, I'd order whenever I was ready; seems that the big changes will be 2014, not 2013. I'm not interested in the tech package, so I haven't been following comments about it; MINI Connected would be a waste for me, but might be fine for your long commute. My 2011 MCSm has the newer engine, has been very reliable, and gets 34.6 mpg combined.

 

Sorry, name is taken.

 

Opinions? Sure, I have those!

2013 MCS not especially different, according to what I've read, so no real reason to wait for a 2013 particularly. JCW automatics, but you're not after one of those.

I ultimately decided against MINI Connected when I ordered my MCS. I wanted to keep the look of the big speedometer, not replace most of it with a glass panel. We spent close to an hour playing with MINI Connected one morning at the dealer, I thought it was a bit "clunky" when changing apps, say from playing Pandora to MOGS to reading text. It also is optimized for iPhone however I switch from Droid to iPhone quite often. I also don't have a lot of faith in auto mfrs keeping up with handheld technology, finding that GPS and smartphone software capabilities change/improve very often.

Just one data point from me, however there are a lot of posts from folks on here who have it and have found it quite useful / works swell for them.

 

+1

also even if the new model were to arrive soon, as far as reliability goes the first year of a model change arent nearly as good as subsequent models. that and i dont know if youve seen the spy pics but the new one looks ugly.