Hey All,
So i'm about to order my 07 cooper S and Im still unsure about my configuration. The problem is i'm already border line maxed out financially and the NAV ($2100) and Audio package ($1400) put me over the top unless I cut other things out. If you could answer my questions i'd appreciate it.

1. If I get just the NAV can I just activate Sirius myself and pay yearly? Or are there dealer installed hardware modules? Is the Mini NAV touchscreen?

2. What is with the bluetooth option? Other cars I have you just sync the phone to the NAV. Why is this an option'? I dont need to be able to plug in my phones but i'd like to sync them.

3. If I dont get the NAV or Audio package is the Mini Hifi 10 speaker system worth it?

 

Can't answer any specifics about the NAV since I don't have it, but the Sirius part of you equation requires that their will be additional hardware installed, so you can't just activate it.

There are a couple of other threads on the forum here that talks about the NAV and the ability to sync your phone via Bluetooth, and some people are findin that their phone isn't 100% compatible, meaning they can't sync their address book from their phone to the Bluetooth/NAV unit.

Since I don't have the NAV, I don't know all the particulrs, but do a search and I'm sure you'll find the answers to your questions.

 

I fought with the NAV decision and ultimately ended up not ordering it. $2100 was just too much no matter how "neat" it would have been to have it. I got everything else I wanted except for that and managed to keep mine under $30K, which was my goal. I can get a portable NAV to satisfy my "gadget habit", but I'm sure for those where a: money is no object, or b: said to heck with it, are happy to have the integrated unit.

Haven't taken delivery yet, so I can't say how pleased or not I am with the HiFi option. I'm thinking it's gotta' be worth the $550 dollars though, or else I wouldn't have ordered it. At some time, I'll probably be adding a sub though.

 

1: If the Sirius receiver ever becomes available as a part, you can activate it yearly, instead of the "lifetime" that comes with factory Sirius.

2: Unfortunately, Bluetooth is a separate option, you need it if you want your phone to sync, and be hands-free

3: For $500.00, I think the HiFi system is worth it. Not audiophile quality, but IMHO, better than the stock system

 

Hey Coffeeman,

I heard that the Sirius dealer install would be ready by week two July - this from a bulletin my dealer read to me - are you pessimistic on this based on the Mini - parts availability track record? Do you think Mini may be taking us for a ride on this actually being available this month?

 

As has been said, you have to have hardware for the Sirius radio. I didn't get it and don't know much about it, but I'm under the impression that there may be aftermarket options available.

I have the NAV and like it a lot. Much nicer looking that the cartoon speedo, and very useful. I like how it is integrated with other features. The NAV is NOT touch screen. You control it with a joystick down near the hand brake. Some functions can be controlled with the Multi-function steering wheel.

I believe you need the bluetooth option to sync your phone.

IMO, the road, tire, and wind noise in the MINI is loud enough at highway speeds that no audio is going to sound great unless played at hearing loss levels. If you listen in city driving, the upgrade is probably worth it. It isn't the greatest, but better than the standard. From what I've read, the HIFI upgrade is a better starting point for after-market audio mods. It seems that the standard radio may be somewhat limiting, due to the way the audio is heavily integrated into the other systems in the car.

 

I'd say to skip the Nav since $ is definitely a factor in your decision. You can get a Nuvi for $400 if you really want/need navigation.

No idea about the Sirius.

YES the HiFi is worth the $550!!! I never thought I'd say that I would pay more for a "high end" factory stereo, but then I heard the standard 6 speaker system and decided to spend the $550 on the HiFi. It sounds WAY better than the crappy 6 speaker system.

 

I believe that they are now producing R56's with factory Sirius, but I think that it might be a while before the Sirius receiver is available as a retro fit kit from the dealer. Here is a link to the diagram & part numbers for the OEM Sirius unit:
http://www.realoem.com/bmw/showparts...67&hg=65&fg=05

 

Correct, it is available on new factory orders since something like the second week of June.