Hi All, my first post here. I am buying a 09 Cabrio S next week. I'm still deciding on options, but it will be most likely be lightly optioned: metallic paint, Cold package, Multifunction wheel and bluetooth. I'm still deciding on whether convenience package is worth it.

The dealer said they dont discount beyond $500, but he eluded that I may be able to get $1K off... if I'm lucky.

This seems weird to me, I know all about the mini resale equation and summertime convertible sales, but is $1K all they are really doing off on these cars in this economy? I did a little searching here and it looks like $1500 off is considered a killer deal. Does this still hold now that we are into June? Are there dealers willing to sell with this money off, or is that a futile search, or possibly something which is gone now that the economy is picking up?

 

My experience with Minis that the more packages you add on, the greater the discount you may get. Atleast that what happend with me, and it worked out great since I wanted a pretty much loaded S Convertible with many dealer installed accessories as well.

As for packages, I like the Convenience package, especially the Comfort Access system. I like the fact that I never have to actually take the key out of my pocket to lock, unlock and start the mini. Just click and go. The other items in the Convenience package is nice if you can actually makes use of them. I do, so I was able to justify it in my own mind.

Also you make mention of Bluetooth? I believe there are three Bluetooth packages.

1. Regular Bluetooth
2. Comfort Bluetooth with iPod/USB (included in the Conveneince Package I think)
3. Comfort Bluetooth with Smartphone Prep

#2 is a great choice, however if you plan to use your iPhone as both a phone and an MP3 music player and you plan to get the cradle (extra cost), then #3 makes sense.

 

Don't overlook the backup warning feature. It is dang handy when backing into one of those parking spaces nobody else can get into. Rear visibility is supposed to be improved, but still...

 

I agree they are a good tool if you live in the a where space is limited. Too bad they are an additional cost now.

 

I just bought a new convertible S two weeks ago. Just finished being built and should ship shortly. I also heard that discounts are rare. I was able to get over $1000 off the final price, but most of that money is cut from the installation fees for the front lamps, side scuttle, and other features. I think you might be able to do better.

I basically went to another dealership said, this is what I want, and this is what I want to pay, they agreed, then I took it back to my original dealer and he beat that number. They have a laid back sales approach and since the car has limited competition you can't really go somewhere else. So $1000 off I was happy with.