1:00, there is a launch event for the R56. Anyone going?

 

Arrggghhh! I was just there for service yesterday. There was nothing posted there about an event today!

Of course, if I had gotten online earlier and seen your post, I still could have made it...

How did you find out about the event? This was the first I heard. My plan was to look at it at the Auto Show next weekend; it would have been nice to see in "friendlier" surroundings.

 

I just called and asked if they were doing anything.

I went, but couldn't stay long as I had both of my girls asleep in the MINI in the parking lot!

They had sandwhiches and brownies, and a couple new cars in the showroom.

My first impression: Seeing one by itself without an R53 around it, you can't tell much of a difference.

The seats are much nicer, the wood trim is really nice, and overall, it looks 'good'. That is about all I could tell from just sitting in it.

They have a 'mellow yellow' cooper out back, I don't like it nearly as much as liquid yellow.

Interestingly, they still have a LOT of R50s/R53s on the lot. If I was buying now, I'd still get one of those at a huge discount over an R56 at MSRP.

 

I got a note in the mail about a week ago about the '07 model event. I was out of town and couldn't make it... your post makes me think I should stop by over lunch now.

 

I did go to the event on Saturday. I had gotten the mailer from IA on Tuesday of last week. The cars had basically been delivered that day. One of them hadn't even been through the full inspection. A couple of people seemed to be interested in upgrading their ride. So early indications look good.

My impressions of the car: The seats are definitely more comfortable. The new interior layout will need to have some time to grow on me. I still have some mixed feelings about it. It was nice to see that the "mood lighting" actually exists. While you can't change all of the interior lighting (such as the speedo, tach, radio), you can change some of it. Unfortunately, in a bright showroom, it is hard to see the effect.

The battery for the S is now under the bonnet, but there is still no spare. That would have been a nice option. The battery also does not look user-servicable as it is tucked under some significant plastic. I'm not sure why they went that route.

The second secret glove box is cool.

I wish the headlights were still attached to the bonnet. Kyle, the Sales Manager, said that you have to be a little careful closing the bonnet as you might damage the lights. I'm assuming that is coming from the training session he attended.

I'd still like to give it a go on a test drive to see the handling and the difference the "sport button" makes. I'll miss the supercharger whine....

First glance, it looks like the MINI we know and love, but it is a different car. Some parts are cool, some more "meh." But as my '06 is still pretty new, I'll won't be upgrading soon.