MINI Convertible (2009 - 2015) 1.6 (122bhp) (Chili Pack) 2d Auto (2010/10) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I expected BMW build quality and refinement and didn't get either.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They liked it, but they didn't have to live with it!
Would you buy this car again and why?
No - it's too compromised, and there are far better drop-tops out there.
What are you likely to buy next?
Replaced it with a TT roadster.
-
Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
December 2009
Did you get a good deal and why?
OK, but this is an overpriced car for what it is.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I'd always wanted a convertible and my other half had always wanted a mini.
What was the dealer like?
OK - nothing special.
-
Driving it
What's it like to drive?
When it's sunny and you're out in the country on winding B roads with the roof down in something that handles like a racing kart, it's GREAT fun. But in the depths of winter or on a long run, it's tedious, tiring and a crashy ride. If you want a slush box, better go for the Cooper S as the performance is just too stunted on the Cooper with the extra weight of the convertible.
What's it like to park?
Fine with the rear parking sensors (visibility with hood up is far from good).
-
Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
In 4 years and 30K miles, roof packed in within the first 3 months and couple of thousand miles (hint - keep a screwdriver in the car so you can wind it up manually!). Roof became detached from bodywork on nearside rear due to a torn securing eyelet (a common failure apparently). Passenger door very difficult to open from outside in spite of dealers repeated efforts to fix. A lot of body flex, and rattles like a bag of spanners.
What's most practical about your car?
Not a lot! The boot is more like a glove box, but you can put the back seats down to take a bit of luggage for a few days away. I'm just over 6 foot so my seat is right back to the one behind, so not even enough space for a small child in the back.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Heated seats, heated windscreen, paddle shift option on the auto, and retracted roll over hoops (much improved look to the older model).
