MINI Cooper S (2006 - 2016) 1.6 (Chili/Sport Pack) 3d (2009/59) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
It's Chic, it's class-less but due to the numbers on the road the 's' no longer stands for 'special'.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
It's our 3rd Cooper so no real surprises but I think deep down friends and work colleagues feel its a sensible branded choice that suits us.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes and No. It ticks so many boxes as a small run-a-around but the quality of this second generation is poor compared to the competition (VW Polo, Audi A1). The Mini has got a lot of soul which goes a long way but for £22,000 for a new Cooper S I'm slightly dismayed at the build quality and engine issues in a premium brand.
What are you likely to buy next?
VW Scirocco - 3 door sporty coupe, similar handling characteristics and performance to the Mini but the trim and ride seem to be better. The compromise is the size.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£12,000
When did you buy the car?
July 2013
Did you get a good deal and why?
On the nose, may have found one cheaper but the part exchange was pretty good.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Our previous 2005 Cooper was a bit worn.
What was the dealer like?
Good, no sales mumbo jumbo, just 'lets do a deal now'.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Comparing to the 1st Gen the car feels lighter but at the same time hollowed out making the car feel cheap. The ride is not dissimilar to a skateboard, very harsh but very hard to put down. You will spend most of your time wanting to know how far you can really push it. Fun but every day? If you got rid of the fuel saving run flat tyres, used contact adhesive on all the rattles, and had life time warranty you would have a fantastic car.
What's it like to park?
On a penny, with or without sensors.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Where do you want to start; timing chain pretensioner tractor noise issue, carbon build up pinging issue, always on cooling fan, clutch pedal creek, loose trim, and endless rattles.
What's most practical about your car?
Size - nippy-zippy but also a car you can bumble around in.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Mood colour lighting - something you can play with whilst sitting in traffic.
