I'm looking for people to post the factory options that they wouldn't spend the money on had they ordered a second car... To me, this would include anything that you think was overpriced and could have been better handled (read: cheaper or higher quality) had you gone with an aftermarket solution. Thanks!

So far, I've heard of a few things:
The upgraded 10-speaker stereo is weak
The money on the suspension upgrade would be better spent on an aftermarket solution
The rear fog light option only adds a single, offset light?

Is the JCW Strut Brace worth $295?

 

false - my dealer told me the driving lights (with install) would end up running around $800.

i would also like to hear options on the stereo. i'm locked into the sunroof and wondering if it's worth it to plunk over another $500 for the upgraded stereo and AC controls (premium package - sunroof, hi-fi, and auto AC for $1500). thoughts...?

 

I think you'll find this thread helpful: https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...ighlight=order, Accessories You Wouldn't Get a Second Time.

 

I'd maybe not have gotten the Auto AC, the LSD (I don't really know if I need it I don't spin the wheels, I never drove one without it though), I could live without the BT phone thing (it's nice though). I don't open the sunroof much but I do like the light it lets in. I'd have skipped the expensive 17" wheels and gone aftermarket with Rota RBs. The stereo upgrade was essential. Skip the sport suspension for sure, you'll never tell the difference.

 

The only reason to get the rear fogs is to fill up the toggle switch panel! I really cannot stand the missing switches.

 

yes, the rear fog is a no brainer for $100.

the others ... like the "upgraded stereo" and "auto a/c" i learned from my Mazda that they are not worth the money.

The stock stereo in the MC is better than the Bose stereo I had in the Mazda with subwoofer and all.

And Auto A/C ... you still have to twiddle with it no matter what so might as well stay with the manual one.

 

This is what I like to hear. I have the Bose unit in my TT and both my mom's Passat and a stock Chevy HHR rental blow it out of the water. A classic case of improper factory tuning.

 

DAMN! I didn't look back far enough

 

Stereo upgrade - while reltively cheap, it's better to save the $ towards a real sound upgrade. The speakers are crap.

Center Arm Rest - I got it because it was part of a package, but, it's a piece of crap. Almost no storage space, flimsy, opens when it shouldn't. Although I personally haven't had the problem, others complain of it getting in the way while shifting.

 

Not to worry, but the best thing is to use the "search" function and use the view as "posts".

 

Yes, the stereo is junk, but definitely get the rear fog light.

 

The "$100 rear fog lights to fill up the switch panel" is a common idea.
The fog light is a JOKE, since the MINIUSA configurator shows two lights.

You could pick and choose Premium Package items: $1500
Stereo
Sunroof
Auto AC
For me, this was a desired package.

The convenience package was $1500, but I only took the Comfort Access and Multi-function Steering Wheel for $750.
****That was the BEST money spent.****

Just say NO to the Sports Package for $1500.
The ride is stiff enough.

Stripes $100...do it! That or the Viper stripe is beautiful on most colors.

Cold Weather Package $500. So, it depends on where you live and if you've had that heaven called heated seats.

I blew $500 on the alarm and am happy to have done it.

 

How so? The only times I've twiddled was to tap "Max" when I didn't think Auto was achieving the temperature I'd set quickly enough. I'd certainly have it again.

 

If you've had the traditional 3 or 4 speed A/C, the auto fan is appreciated. The Premium Package items were all desired items for me.

As for the A/C, my key fob is programmed to set it to the LO temp.

 

Auto AC is great. I have it in both MINIs. And I didn't know you could program the fob to set your desired temp. I'll have to play with that feature.

 

The thing with the 10 speaker addition to think about is this, extra holes and covers handled by MINI so that you can upgrade to custom 10 speakers and won't have to cut any additional holes. Although I got the 10 speaker upgrade cause I purchased off the lot.

 

There are really 8 speakers in the premium upgrade.
They need to change that B.S. literature.
They've combined two into each of the rear speakers. Scam it is.
Two in the A Pillar, Two in each door and two in the back.