Ever since I first saw the interior I have wondered why MINI didn't make the console silver (similar to the surfaces on the components set into it -- AC, CD, etc.)
I think one of the things that make them look 'toyish' is that they POP too much from the surface.
I did this photo manipulation quickly but any chance we'll see an aftermarket replacement? Any guesses?

 

I agree. I think the silver console would make it look less cheap.

 

I'm not so sure, the silver just says "LOOK OVER HERE" to me.

 

I guess I feel the current blk background makes the center console "busy" The speedo will do the yelling "look over here" in my opininon. I think silver below that would make the pieces less like seperate pieces injected/ inserted into the background and more integrated. Just my opinion and since I haven't seen it in person it's just speculation.

 

I have seen many cars with the all silver dash and it makes me wanna puke...Ex crysler crossfire.

 

sorry about upsetting your stomach six.

 

I have to say that I think it would look good silver.

 

I like the idea here. Down tubes matched to the color line:

http://www.mini2.com/forum/2nd-gen-i...ght=down+tubes

 

I agree with matching the down tubes. It'd look hot if you could get the down tubes in the optional brushed aluminum trim.

 

I tried a few things after looking at the MINI2 explorations.
Just for fun;

 

a couple more

 

It's a matter of preference IMHO and interior colours that you have ordered.

My R56 is all black and chrome so the black suits it. If you have a different colour interior I agree it can look better.

 

my interior is in my sig and i think it looks damn good like that

 

I have to agree with you DesignerMini. If all those wings, *****, and stuff were made of some quality looking material they would probably look good against a contrasting background. But that's not the case. So the best way to minimise their look of inexpensiveness (to my eyes) is to make them look unobtrusive. Your silver background (and other suggested similar silver backgrounds) succeeds in that endeavor.

 

someone should create decals that can be applied in that area. Like window klings. That would be cool. mabe todd at WWR could do this.

 

The checkered silver background with the matching color line down tubes looks awesome! Please oh please let Mini (or anyone) provide aftermarket accessories that could accomplish that look. Vast improvement!

 

I'm sure as far as MINI is concerned it will not happen.
I would think the swapable parts for the colorline and dash choices are options because they are an easy swap. The decision to go Black accross the board has more to do with the fact that Black would go with everything so that was what we got. I don't think it's the best for everyone. I agree with those who ordered the Blk/chrome/silver interior that ceratinly looks very good for that combo.
I would like the center console to match the dash (In my case the default 'S' checkered silver) but I'm certain I'll love my MINI regardless.

 

Well, I'll have to vote in favor of the R56 panel black...not that other options for customization aren't worthy of consideration on a personal level. Yes, it looks busier, but........and this is what settles the matter for me......the black panel makes the individual bundles of controls more visible peripherally. Imagine driving down the road and wanting to crank the fan control...much easier to spot silver on black out the corner of your eye. Actually, I noticed this effect on my R50 with the all-black units between the silver downtubes. Everything runs together, especially when you're trying to keep your eye on the road. Visual design is one thing, but if I can find an ounce of well-reasoned motivation for a particular treatment I can accept it much more readily.

 

I really like this one:



I wonder how long it will take for people to fill that space with chrome and carbon fibre! :P