While I do love the GTI (that's a car I might have instead of a MINI), I can't help but share these feelings with you. The clutch pedal on a GTI doesn't feel like something that should be in a sportier car, and VW shifters feel waaaaaay too rubbery.

 

My 1996 Toyota Tacoma 4x4 is a TRUCK. It's a lot like the MINI, it will be around for a long time.
They both do what they were designed to do very well at both ends of the vehicular spectrum.