Hey guys, I sent an email to MINI usa about the satellite radio for the 03 models and this is the response I got. Just thought I would share:


Hi Eric, thanks for writing in.

I apologize for your disappointment. The MINI audio system is satellite ready for the 2003 model year. This means that a satellite radio receiver can be installed on all 2003 MINIs. However, the actual satellite radio kit will not be available until later in the model year. The satellite radio service will be provided by Sirius. I would advise that you keep in touch with your service advisor at your dealer, they will be made aware when the installation kit is available. My apologies again.

Sincerely,
Jen Schuelke
MINI Division
Customer Relations

 

Eric, did they tell you whether or not this will be a free "upgrade," as this was supposed to be a standard option on all 03 models? I was realy looking forward to getting Sirius!
-Chris

 

"Bueller, Bueller?"

"Fry, Fry?"

"Anyone, anyone?"

 

Just be careful about the upgrade and Sirius, as Sirius is very close to bankrupcy. The company itself only has cash to last until early 2003.

XM radio isn't a whole lot better off than Sirius... but they have enough money to last till 2004.

 

Yea, I realize that, I've been following thir stock for about 1 1/2 years, have seen it go way up and way down. They do have partnerships with many of the big name, high end car manufacturers, and like it or not, satellite radio will be the future of radio broadcast. As soon as customers start locking in, then their stock should go back up... buy low sell high! As for XM, I think they'll make it too, but it may take a little longer to catch on, as they don't have partnerships with the luxury car manufacturers. Oh well, we'll see what happens!

 

Sorry I didn't get back sooner, it is defintely not a free upgrade. The 2003's are prewired, but all that means is that you still have to buy the receiver from MINI parts. The only thing you are gaining is that it will display on the stock head unit. I just ordered the blitzsafe adapter to convert the changer inputs to rca ($100 from rspeed), and I am gonna get the delphi xm unit. I'll post pics of the install when its done.

Eric