Dropped off my R55/MCCS at the dealer this morning (after an hour-long drive) for service and warranty stuff. The dealer said it would take a day to a day-an-a-half to complete the work, and to take a loaner and go home (60 miles). Thank you, MINI of Austin.

They gave me a 2012 Justa MINI Cooper with automatic. Basically an entry-level car, but with the pano-roof and auto climate.

IT'S A DELIGHTFUL LITTLE CAR! Quiet and comfortable, and quick enough (w/auto) to still be entertaining. The base stereo (MINI Boost) sounds very nice. The 15" rims and non run-flats tires are much more comfortable (and stable) than the 17" run-flats on my S. Much quieter, too.

I could live with this car happily (although I'd prefer green and white for the classic look, and a manual to keep my left foot happy). Well done, BMW/MINI. This is a fine little vehicle, giving up very little to the higher ticket variants.

And thank you, MINI of Austin!

 

Glad you liked. You get so much for the price in a Cooper!

 

I too have been impressed with a Cooper hardtop automatic loaner car. It seemed to have plenty of get-up-and-go, even with the a/c on. The smaller wheels definitely improve the ride quality, and I agree that the standard sound system was better than I expected. I was surprised at the Cooper's standard (non sport) seats; they were more comfortable than I'd have given them credit for.

 

For reference, I have a 2012 S with JCW tuning and JCW suspension, and have had a Cooper loaner recently as well. I found it to be a very capable and enjoyable drive.

I think the lack of runflats make a huge difference in the feel of the car and I can't wait to get rid of mine. While the power difference is noticeable, the Justa is no slacker by any means and gives a great driving experience with great handling and gas mileage. It does have a lot of strengths and is a very worthy member of the MINI lineup. Highly recommended!

 

pmsummer

+ 1 billion

Love my Justa. I just broke 6K on Comet and no issues. I let co-workers and friends drive it and they all like it. Even my 18 yr old daughters best friend said she liked Comet.

Pure fun.

 

I also am a fan of the Justa, whereas I wasn't before getting my S.

I think it would be neat to get a BRG with white roof/stripes, infinite stream wheels, Toffee seats and color line, and some Goodwood carpet. It's a nice "classy" Mini compared to a "sporty" one....and an S can't pull that off.

 

I have been contempleting the idea of finding a cheap used one and converting it into a full on track car. I think it has lots of potential and be a great bang for the bucks for the track.

 

i live in south fl. 3 mini dealers within driving distance. first purchase of mini coupe S. should i expect to pay retail or is there some wiggle room?

suggestions on shopping / pricing greatly appreciated.

Bill - Boca Raton