MINI Cooper S (2006 - 2016) 1.6 Cooper S Clubman 5d (Chili Pack) (2008/08) 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?
What a clubman says about you depends on what colour you get, I have a black one and it looks fairly mean yet I always get let out at junctions unlike when I'm in the 4x4 I use for work.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Since it's been back thirteen times under warranty so far they have all told me to get shot of it.
Would you buy this car again and why?
I would never buy a mini again, it's been so unreliable. I thought at first it may have just been my car but hanging around the dealer waiting and hearing stories from other owns its the same for everyone.
What are you likely to buy next?
I'm likely to go for a VW next.
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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?
£13,500
When did you buy the car?
May 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
I recieved a good trade in on my old car and a TLC pack but no money off the car.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
I thought a slightly larger mini would be fun and pratical?
What was the dealer like?
From a sales point of view they said what ever you wanted to hear (hollow promises).
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
It's nice to drive on a smooth road so terrible on UK roads, every pothole feels like you've dropped into the Grand Canyon.
What's it like to park?
It's arkward to park, the edges of the alloys protrude the tyres so you have to be careful. Judging distances when reverse parking is also arkward, I would recommend specking rear parking sensors if your going to get one.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
The sunroof went wrong straight away and went back three times to be fixed, the timing chain tensioner had to be replaced, it has been making a horrible rattling noise on cold start and has been back on four occasions to be fixed (still is not fixed). There has been problems with the paint and the plastic engine scoop and its been back for a recalling on the water pump for the turbo.
What's most practical about your car?
Not very practical, just slightly longer than the standard model.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
No special gadgets, with it being a mini you have to buy them (nothing comes as standard).
