It's mentioned in the OM (but with an optional *). And there's a button for it with the Auto AC (the left most button). But, I don't recall it being mention in the standard features, options or packages. And I've seen interior pics on NAM where that left most button is dark. I also noted that it's explicitly listed as a package feature in Canada.

So, what gives? Do USA R56 owners get a heated windshield or not?

 

Heated REAR windscreen, yes. Windshields are always defogged with the heater and a defrost setting, AFAIK. Since A/C is becoming ubiquitous, manufacturers often switch on the A/C compressor when you select defrost, without notifying the driver. So front defrost off when racing!

The optional heated side mirrors default to always on, ALWAYS. Seems counterintuitive but I guess it eliminates the need for controls, timers, thermostats, etc.

 

Manual says some markets get it. Maybe Canada or Norway or even Iceland, but not USA.

 

In Canada it's a $150 option. Will definatly go on mine if/when I can one. Has invisible wires in the windscreen aparently.

 

^ Right. I was recently pricing a new windshield for the PW MINI and the glass shops always asked if it has the heated w/s. I asked what that was and they explained it just the way you describe... two lines of heated elements at the bottom, where the wipers sit to keep them from freezing to the glass.

 

Heated windshield does not meet the DOT standard thus we do not get it. Kind of like the Recaro option that the European folks had.

 

Looks like heated windshield washers is as close as we get in the USA.

 

^ Yes, in the CW package.

Might not be such a bad thing not having the heated windshield. WHEN you need to replace the windshield, that option adds about $200 to the cost.

 

I wonder how Land Rover gets away with this? Most U.S. Rovers have the vertical defrosting wires imbedded in the windshield.

 

The US land rovers pass DOT. Ask my buddy on the cost, he had to replace his on a Discovery, I think the windshield was about $1000 installed because of the heating.

 

The CW package doesn't give you a heated windshiled; it gives you heated washer nozzles.

BTW, the reason I was given for the non-availability in the US is that US drivers are not used to it and prefer the normal defrost functions. AND get pissed about the additonal cost required when the windshield brakes (not that that ever happens with a MINI) and they have to pay for something they don't need and don't use.

 

I'm pretty sure that's what we said, neighbor.

 

It was, indeed.