OK. Here's the deal. Cary was just totaled Thursday, and as hard it was to let him go to salvage, we decided we definitely want to get another MINI and therefore are back in the market. We are looking at a 2013 hardtop (MAYBE an S but doubtful). I have a few questions for those of you with a 2013 so we walk in with as much information as possible:

--Are you satisfied with your 2013 MINI (hardtop or S)?
--Other than aesthetics, what do you like/dislike about your 2013 R56?
--Although this is still an available year and you probably haven't racked up too many miles, thus far how has your MINI performed mechanically? Dependable? Any common problems to look out for?
--those of you who have been to the Dragon or similar stretch of challenging twisty road in your 2013.. How did it handle? Good, bad, luke warm? Better/worse/same handling as earlier models?

Thanks!

 

Get an R56 quick while you still can, they really ruined it for 2014!

Our used 2013 we just got has been fine so far, though I miss the MPG of our 2008 justa. Don't hesitate to go with one, they're still plenty quick.

 

The 2013 MINIs are pretty much the same as the earlier R56 MINIs, apart from the changes in equipment. We traded our 07 for a 2013 (and an 08 for a 2012), the biggest difference is the 08 came with a real limited slip diff, that's not an option anymore. The only place that's made any difference is on track, I'm having difficulty making the 2012 go as fast as the 08 even though I've got more power. I don't notice any difference in handling, just the lap times.

Like I said, we traded in to get a 2013 before the R56 went away for good. We like them.

So far the new machines have been trouble free 3k for the 2013 (and 11k for the 2012).

 

IMHO...they disfigured and displaced the look of MINI with the 2014's that I think the new Mascot should be a piranha...not a Bulldog!! I almost think that a "true" hearted MINIac will not be trading in their current model for the 2014...just not happen'n!!
Love my '08 Justa!!

 

2010 base Hardtop for 21k trouble-free miles. Absolutely neutral handling with sport suspension. Quick and confidence-inspiring. I'm still breaking in the 2014 Roadster S. The 2013 Hardtop is out of production so time is wasting if you want a new one.

 

Have a 2012 Mini S automatic (pretty much same as 2013) with 16,000 miles and no problems. Had a 2007 Justa stick shift with 45,000 and no problems. Prefer the S to Justa for acceleration and handling. The Justa got 8 mpg better and a softer highway ride. Also cost 6,000 less and had more options than S. Overall, prefer the S.

 

2012 Justa here. Sport suspension is a bit harsh on less-than-perfect roads. Using the smaller base wheel size (15s) helps mitigate that. Handling is excellent, very responsive, and the car corners pretty flat. It doesn't communicate quite as well as the wife's older 911, but it changes directions much more rapidly and with more authority.

~23K miles so far. Only one real issue--the oil pump solenoid leaked, which contaminated the wiring harness. Both of those, plus the thermostat housing, had to be replaced. A couple of sun visors have been replaced, but that's pretty much expected by now. I also had the stock jack absolutely fail to raise the car, and make some ugly gouges in the rocker panel while doing so. That was replaced under goodwill.

Oh, and I had a flat caused by a nail.

The front brake pads were just replaced, and the tires are getting pretty close to the wear limits.

 

Just traded a 2005 s on a 2013 s, both auto. Still on break in miles, but so far so good. Also have an 2012 R60 ALL4, so we are familiar with the updated minis.

Very pleased with the 13. Not sure the reason on not shopping an S, but hey, that is just me! I love the turbo, but really miss the sound of the supercharger!

 

We have a '13 JCW with just about 2,000 miles. First oil change done and no issues. Clutch is smooth, grabs corners, extremely responsive, love the sound and it is just a pleasure to drive. I can fit most anything into it that I need (our other vehicle is a pick-up for the large items). My only complaint would be the cup holders. If I put a travel mug in either spot I'm smashing knuckles in either reverse or 5th gear. I need to cut down on coffee anyhow. Seriously though - I've never enjoyed driving from here to there so much before.

 

I have a '13 MCS…. And It's a great car… and an absolute kick to drive. Invest in a high quality radar detector…. It'll save you some dough!

 

I'm still in the break in period on my 2013 MCS (500 miles)and I'm so happy with it! I was planning to wait for the 2014 model but I don't like how it looks! I like the bulldog look better!: >

 

2013 MCS with just over 5k!

Yes, a 1000 times yes :-)
Obviously, I like the way it drives. Visibility in the thing is amazing.
I am really happy I got the Comfort Access. Super nice being able to leave the keys in the pocket!
I don't really dig the way the A/C controls are setup. This has been covered here ad nauseum. I just set the auto temp and it's fine.
None. This was the last year of the Prince engine. I think this is as solid as the R56 will get.
I live in the Bay Area. We have a lot of great roads here. I can't compare it to other MINIs, since this my first, but I have been pleased. The only problem (besides my skill ) is the stock run flats are absolutely horrible at spirited driving. I'm getting a set of Michelin PSSs to help this :-)

I felt even better about my decision when I saw the 2014! If I did it all over again I would have ponied up for JCW...oh well. I am still super happy with the MCS.

 

I got mine new June of 2013. It now has 3200 miles on it with not mechanical issues. I really enjoy the car. I could have waited to get a 2014 but getting a car in the first year of a major redesign makes me nervous.

 

I've had a 2013 Hardtop S for a bit over a year, and it's the best car I've ever owned. Huge amount of fun to drive, no problems whatsoever. Would buy another in a heartbeat....

 

another '08 > '13 base cooper guy here. only thing i miss is the trip odometer.

 

The trip odometer is there, you just have to select it.

 

sorry, i mean miss it constantly being there

 

Sorry about your car.
2013 is not materially different from 2012 model. Same suspension, N18 engine, options, etc. Both are on accelerated depreciation curve with the F56 model due on dealer floors in 3 months!

Since you live in DC area, probably stay away from sport suspension.

Good luck,
a

 

I have a '13 S with 22,000 miles on it. LOVE it! Not one regret and it is by far the most expensive car I've purchased. No mechanical problems. My commute is crazy/lovely twisty and the car is so fun. Get the S!

 

We have two 2013's. A MC and a MCCS, 2000 and 5000 miles respectively. No issues. both cars handle great. Not a fan of the 2014.

Love the cars so far, there are still plenty of 2013's available here at the 3 dealers near me.

 

I agree with others sentiment. Grab a 2013 S befoore they are all gone. I love mine and it kicks *** in bad weather to boot. I am unimpressed by the 2014s. yes they are technologically advanced, but I never by a 1st year car and they look plain fugly and too large.

 

I'm the thinking of trading in my 09 base for 2013. What are the prices you paid for a 2013? Any discounts?

 

I am a haggler to the core. They were offering really good finance rates to those with approved credit, along w/ I did the Rally tober event so that knocked another Grand off the car. Finally I haggled w/ the dealer and paid 500 over invoice. So the break down is as such

MSRP $28,800
I paid invoice + $500 = $27,300 - $1000 Rally tober discount

$26,300 before tax and title.

What also sold me is i got solid trade on my passat, so when it was all said and done I ended up Financing just at $21K total after Tax and title.

They are not giving them away like Suzukis, but if your interested in a roadster, countryman, or Paceman, then they are giving those cars away. Invoice plus huge incentives.

 

Thanks. They been offering me around 2k off msrp, which isn't too bad. There was no haggling on the first mini I bought in 07.

 

If you're thinking Justa I'd seriously look at the new one, the F56. It looks better than the S to most people AND it's turbocharged, resulting in a big HP boost (whereas the S got a bigger engine, but the same HP). Maybe you can't wait that long though.