Hi everyone,
I had a quick question concerning the interior of the Minis. I have a 2000 VW Golf GLS. I only have a year and a few months left to pay on it, but I currently have three instances where plastic pieces have snapped (cupholder arm, glovebox strut, and armrest lid release).
Anyways, I'm probably looking at getting a new car in a year or so, probably after I pay it off. This experience (along with the three faulty window regulators and crappy dealer service) has kept me from wanting to get a VW again, so I was just wondering how the Mini interiors hold up. Apparently VW uses pretty cheap plastic, what about Mini? I would like to get something next time that will last a while. After doing a little research, I'm kind of looking at the Subaru WRX or the Ford Focus SVT. Any suggestions?
I'd really appreciate any info that you guys can give. Thanks.
Aloha!

 

I've put just over 7000 miles on my 2003 MCS and haven't had any interior pieces break. I know what you mean by cheap pieces such as clips for consoles as I had a truck that went through those on a regular basis. The Mini doesn't really have many parts that move which are made of plastic other than the glove box. The only problem I have had so far is my sunroof mesh. It stuck to one side while sliding once and it stretched the mesh causing it to hang lower on one side.

About your other posts. On the bottom left of your post should be a paper and pencil icon. You should be able to delete the ones you want if they haven't been replied to.

 

Ah yes, the famous broken window regulators! Nothing quite like having your window fall into the door during a rain-storm! I had 2 bad ones on my GTI

The MINI is similarly "plasticky" as the VW's, perhaps even more so, but so far, I have had no problems with bits and pieces falling off.

Best thing would be for you to get a good look and feel in person and see what you think.