I've read nothing but terrible things about the OEM run-flat tires that come on the Mini.

Why would Mini put so much into their cars, and screw around with the tires?

 

They wanted run flats to save space - the space that a spare would take up. But run flats are a big compromise. Generally they are fine on dry roads, but I found that the Dunlops run flats that came on my car were horrible on wet roads, and even worse in snow. Dedicated snow tires soon followed, and then I went to a non-run flat summer tire. I also carry a spare now, along wth a compressor, slime, and a puncture repair kit. Yeah I know - probably overkill...

 

To be honest for an all-season tire I find the Eagle RS-As to be perfectly fine, I was actually impressed with their snow traction and it should be noted that these are the same make of tire fitted to some of the C5 Corvettes. However for ultimate performance and better ride I went to summer only tires and a plug kit.
You could ask the same thing about a lot of parts on the car, but everything's a compromise that can be adjusted some in the aftermarket.

 

If you don't like the OEM rubber change it, simple.

Cars are made to meet a "happy medium". Whether you fit into that criteria or not is for you to determine. Some are happy with stock, others feel the need to mod.

 

Yeah, the ride sucks, but they're not really "crappy." If you get the all-season tires you'll be fine.

 

I love my second gen Contis SSR ContiProContact 195/55/R16 runflats in my R53 MCS. Hands down, the best runflats in the market.

My Clubman S came equipped with second gen Goodyear Excellence runflats.

Like I said, if you don't like the OEM rubber, replace it. Automakers don't equip their cars to satisfy every customer demand. They build to a happy medium.

 

I disagree they're crappy. They are a compromise, but not a horrible one. They are heavier than non-RFTs, which isn't ideal for performance driving. Their stiff sidewall means their ride is harsher. They're sometimes more expensive than non-RFT.

That being said I can't complain about my Dunlop SP Sport 01s DSSTs besides them being a bit loud as the miles wear on, I've been happy with them. I even had them at the track this past fall and although I thought they'd be dogs compared to my old non-RFT Pirelli PZero Neros, I was pleasantly surprised with their traction in the corners.