I currently have my front center console removed from my '06 MINI and I am considering/researching the possibility of buying the older style interior downtubes that don't have the bulge at the bottom that prevents them from sliding up and out of their holes in the center console. It is pretty annoying when working anywhere around the radio to have the downtubes loose; it's a lot easier to work around that area with them removed, like you can do on the older style tubes.

Is there any specific reason MINI decided to make this change to the down tubes? Has anyone done this retrofit before? I know new down tubes would be needed, but I am unsure if any additional parts need to be bought/changed.

Any info is appreciated.