you need some options for the sporty feeling : adaptive suspension, so you can put that into sport and run flat tires (both of that is an option) you can also take the extra lager wheels if you want that go cart feeling that the old mini's had, for my opinion this is a much better cooper s in any way
too bad the guy doing the review has no idea what he is talking about. He said the new car corners flatter, and corners better, but he didn't realize that the suspension has been significantly softened up, even with the adjustable dampers or sport suspension. A softened suspension means more body roll, as evidenced by pics and videos - and first hand experience - and a less planted feel. BMW still didn't work out the terrible bump steer issue that has plagued the modern MINI since day 1. As a current R56 S owner, I can say that this newest MINI is nothing more than a fraudulent copy of the past model. Like the rest of BMW's lineup, its been softened, smoothed out, isolated, insulated, and robbed of its MINI-zest. The MINI was such a great little car because of its rough edges, that only made the car that much more fun to drive on a two lane country road. BMW should've made the base hatch softened up, and kept the S as a true performance driver's car. They didn't. =FAIL
Jack Carlisle After test driving a new S the other day, I have to agree completely with you. It just doesn't feel as raw as my R56 S, and the softened suspension makes it feel like any other city car. As far as the "bump steer" issue you mention, I think the issue you're referring to is the result of having the wheels on the corners. Also, the new MINI doesn't look anything like a MINI. In fact, it looks so massive that it should be an entirely new model. Next to my R56, the new MINI looks huge. If people want a larger MINI, they should get a Countryman, not a fatter version of the hatch. Also, what's with the volume controls on the right side of the wheel? Now you can't shift and change the song/volume at the same time. Maybe that makes sense for left lane drivers, but in the rest of the world it's dumb. Finally, the new clutch has absolutely no feel whatsoever. It feels like it's not connected to anything at all. The R56 you could feel where it starts to engage, and the clutch has some resistance, but the new car's pedal goes straight to the floor without any feeling. Unfortunately, test driving the new Cooper S made me happy that I got my R56 when I did. The new cars aren't true driver's cars, they're softened down cars for the masses. That would be okay if it were the Cooper, but the S is supposed to be special.
The bump steer isn't caused by pushing the wheels out to the edge. It's just an issue with the suspension tuning and how BMW has the steering and suspension tied together. The new GTI actually has it's wheels farther forward, and "at the corners" than the new MINI and it suffers none of the bump steering that the MINI's have. Even the Countryman suffers from it. It's just an issue with how BMW has tuned the front drive suspensions. Honestly, get a VW GTI if you want your money's worth. I just drove one on Thursday (the new MKVII) and it's the absolute best hatch I've ever driven. It doesn't have the rough edges like the previous MINI's, but what it makes up for is stability, speed, comfort, bang for your buck, style, and quality. The new GTI literally can run circles around the new MINI. I actually saw this standing mile test too, and I knew the F56 wasn't as fast from my test drive, but that video proved it. You know BMW was conservative with the R56's power output and performance specs, but they've been overly generous with this new MINI's times. The Automobile magazine video proves it. It's slower than the R56 S. It never felt like it had the power, torque, or flexibility anywhere in its rev range to match the R56 S.
I don't speed when I drive, but I do have to zip around cars that are driving too slow on city streets. The Mini Is the perfect car if you drive like me.
I’ve been lucky enough to have owned the 1st and 2nd generation and now in the 3rd generation. The r53 (1st gen) just feels better when going around corners/turns but my car was also dropped and had the JCW tuning kit. Still my favorite of all gens
When does MINI usually release the next year models? I see this was made in April 2014. I'm looking at getting a Mini. Online right now is the F56, is that what's going to stay, or is a 2016 one coming soon?
has anyone been able to test drive one with the heads-up display? i was planning to add this feature without nav, (since i can get a navigation system for cheaper than .... $1250?!).... any suggestions? please inbox me thanks!
Previous GEN Mini's had Chrysler engines and transmissions... So of course reliability was bad... this Mini here has all bMW parts from the 1series. So you can't compare the two in order to throw shade on the New Mini. I own a 14 Cooper S and it's the most reliable car I've owned out of the Vw Jetta vr6, Ford Thunderbird, Mazda 323, Chrysler Sebring convert... with exception to the bmw z3 convertible I owned, and maybeny 93 Honda Accord LX... oil changes are full synthetic in the Mini at 70bucks from dealer, tires about 700-1000 at dealer, dual ac flap is 511.00 and that's all that I've experiencing with my 2014 3rd Gen Mini... I've owned a 2007 Cooper S with the Chrysler Engine and transmission... I had engine problems but no transmission problems, I had a cracked head that cost me 700 bucks then it started leaking again and I was advised they will need to seal the middle part of engine then probably the lower part and it would have been 800 bucks for each section.... I'm so glad BMW took a serious interest in the Mini and Invested their Engines and Transmissions in the Mini instead of Chrysler Part. This is why Fiat has so many problems... Chrysler bought out Fiat... Current Gen MINI'S are GREAT cars... resale value not so much, but I'm a mini Owner for lIfe... so resale isn't an option for me. So many ppl told me NOT to buy a Mini because they have so many problems and that I would regret it... they talked doi much trash about this car and I'm SO GLAD I DIDN'T LISTEN BUT DID my own research, best Car I've bought. My brother has a Mercedes SLK and he's had more problems than me... his main problem is that My 2014 Cooper S blow the doors off his Mercedes SLK TWICE! LOL. Mini RockS!
I have a 2002 S that I bought new. I am pretty sure that was the first year BMW made them not 2000. I will be test driving a new one soon but I don't imagine they are that far removed from mine. The word flat describing the handling baffles me. Odd review.
Mary Marshall agree. The handling feels alive with great feedback in the twisties but also competent on the motorway without any nervousness. Top marks from me...
hard to spot the difference on the outside from the old one? they ruined it. there is no bumper, no more room for the trademark fog-lamps. inside i guess you can argue, but i did not care the window switch was in a special place. it's reminiscent of a historic 1960's car. those cars had personalities and character. their design defined the golden era of automobiles.
The only issue I've had with Mini cars is although they handle like go-karts, they also bounce and skitter over pavement irregularities in the same manner.
It's a downside, that's for sure, but the new model doesn't do it at all. It doesn't feel like MINIs of the past at all, a lot less sporty feeling. It may please regular car owners who just want something "cute" and "comfortable," but the enthusiasts aren't happy.
He forgot to mention all the mini mechanical flaws with the fuel pump and powertrain. I owned 2 mini's and they failed for the same reason. Stay away from mini.
If you have driven the previous R56 S model, you will understand that German cars put out much more power than their Japanese rivals, even though they claim the same or less. The previous generation N18 engine has been dynoed multiple times and has consistently been putting out over 180hp at the wheels. Try that with a Honda Civic Si and let me know the results. Also, you have to realize that the previous MINI with its 181hp, also had 192lb-ft of torque. A Civic Si can only dream of numbers like that. I do wish that with this newest MINI, they would've just used the new B38 1.5T but in a higher state of tune - see the i8 for example. It would have less weight over the front axle (increasing handling abilities), and it sounds unique. This newest MINI feels slower than its predecessors even though it "has more power". MINI is claiming quicker 0-60 times than before, but just today I saw an article on Automobile Magazine, and the new MINI ran a 15.3 1/4 mile and only a 92.3mph trap speed. The previous car ran mid-14's and 97mph trap speed's stock. As a former Civic Si owner *2009 Si Coupe*, I can tell you that the R56 S N18 engine walks all over the K20 and K24. Even with less quoted horsepower, it more than makes up for it in its ability to pull straight from 900RPM-6500RPM. It has gobs more torque, and the car weighs less than a Civic. Overall, you get a very quick front driver, thats a blast to drive fast. This newest MINI doesn't really do it for me. While its not the worst car on the road, its certainly eclipsed by the previous generation, and the MkVII GTI. I run high-5's in my R56, and low-14 1/4 miles. All I have on the car is a simple JB+ plug n play. Before that, I could run a 6.1sec 0-60, and a 14.5 1/4 mile.
Jack Carlisle you're over exaggerating little bit there buddy. As a former RSX Type S owner I dynoed at 202/144 with a K20 and only mods were intake and catless. With a $200 reflash torque would've increased a good bit too. Not bad for under $500 worth of mods for an all motor car.
The K20 was a great engine, but it was hampered by no torque, so-so fuel economy and the fact you really had to rev the snot out of it to accelerate at anything more than a snails pace. I snatched up a 2015 GTI and boy does it go. I see what +jackcarlisle is talking about with regards to the K20. I definitely agree this new MINI is awful.
TurboCharged ChiliPepper Yea the mini and GTI has more torque because it's forced induction. I guess i'm part of the dying breed, in that i still love high revving NA motors even though it lacks torque. However, i don't care for drag racing or highway pulls so i guess that's why i've been happy with the K20.
this seems a totally useless car for Canada ( except for maybe August) and for the price you could actually buy something that will get you where you're going instead...
Jack Carlisle there are 2 or 3 mini's in my (small) town - I never see them in winter ( which is usually from Nov - May...so, in a way it's kinda like owning a motorcycle ( Harley's are starting about the same price as well...)...and yes most cars sold are fwd....just like most burgers ate are McDonald's...doesn't make them the most tasty...
lmao. The largest percentages of Canadian populations are in cities. Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, etc... and their surrounding areas. If you live in a remote place, buy a Countryman All4 S or JCW. Small, decently nimble, and has 4WD. I wouldn't ever buy one of these new MINI's. I have a 2011 S Hatch 6MT, and it's fantastic. This newest car sucks.
The largest populations of most any country live in the cities - not only Canada...but I can't use one of these because I sometimes need to carry more than a couple boxes of Kleenex and a shaving kit...glad to hear you like what you have...the minis just don't factor into my life(style)...
new MINI is a fraud. Faux engine noises piped in from the stereo, and this guy has NO IDEA what the hell he is talking about. The new suspension tuning is much softer than previous models = more body roll, and LESS FLATNESS in curves. The new S Hatch has no top end power, no low end thrust like the N18 engine, and it sounds a lot less ferocious. The previous MINI had one of the best sounding 4-cylinder engines, it had instantaneous boost, and it loved to rev. The new 2.0L engine is the antithesis of all of those things. Also, BMW is ridiculous to not offer an LSD standard. The VW GTI smears the floor with this car all day long, as does the previous 2 generations. This car also looks like a clown designed it. The front fascia has so many holes, and is only getting more ridiculous with the JCW version. The grille looks like an angry fish with a big fat black bottom lip, and the taillights look preposterously oversized. Overall, this car is about a 2/10.
***** Yes, when the E9x ended production, BMW plummeted to making expensive Camry's that do not last as long and cost you a lot more in maintenance after the warranty expires. Why anyone would pick up one of these hideous POS' over a leftover R56 S or JCW, or even a gently used R56, I will not understand.
what do you mean by new MINI? I want to buy my first car i want a mini cooper 2007 down to about 2005 between that range since i don't car for the look of the car past that age. I have heard of it making noise but people says they have had there for 5 to 7 years+ with no problem and someone with a ford focus braking down the same day some one brought it. I think it depends on the products. Everything has at least 1 bad review. but if not what do you think is a good first time car that also has cute appeal maybe a Fiat maybe???
if this guy shows more emotions i will go completly blitz
Matt,
Your review of the Mini Cooper is excellent. Thanks Man
Say quirkiness one more time!
YES! HAHAHA
Is this guy an robot?
you need some options for the sporty feeling : adaptive suspension, so you can put that into sport
and run flat tires (both of that is an option) you can also take the extra lager wheels
if you want that go cart feeling that the old mini's had,
for my opinion this is a much better cooper s in any way
This is the best review of the new MINI I've seen. Thanks!
too bad the guy doing the review has no idea what he is talking about. He said the new car corners flatter, and corners better, but he didn't realize that the suspension has been significantly softened up, even with the adjustable dampers or sport suspension. A softened suspension means more body roll, as evidenced by pics and videos - and first hand experience - and a less planted feel. BMW still didn't work out the terrible bump steer issue that has plagued the modern MINI since day 1. As a current R56 S owner, I can say that this newest MINI is nothing more than a fraudulent copy of the past model. Like the rest of BMW's lineup, its been softened, smoothed out, isolated, insulated, and robbed of its MINI-zest. The MINI was such a great little car because of its rough edges, that only made the car that much more fun to drive on a two lane country road. BMW should've made the base hatch softened up, and kept the S as a true performance driver's car. They didn't. =FAIL
Jack Carlisle After test driving a new S the other day, I have to agree completely with you. It just doesn't feel as raw as my R56 S, and the softened suspension makes it feel like any other city car. As far as the "bump steer" issue you mention, I think the issue you're referring to is the result of having the wheels on the corners. Also, the new MINI doesn't look anything like a MINI. In fact, it looks so massive that it should be an entirely new model. Next to my R56, the new MINI looks huge. If people want a larger MINI, they should get a Countryman, not a fatter version of the hatch. Also, what's with the volume controls on the right side of the wheel? Now you can't shift and change the song/volume at the same time. Maybe that makes sense for left lane drivers, but in the rest of the world it's dumb. Finally, the new clutch has absolutely no feel whatsoever. It feels like it's not connected to anything at all. The R56 you could feel where it starts to engage, and the clutch has some resistance, but the new car's pedal goes straight to the floor without any feeling.
Unfortunately, test driving the new Cooper S made me happy that I got my R56 when I did. The new cars aren't true driver's cars, they're softened down cars for the masses. That would be okay if it were the Cooper, but the S is supposed to be special.
The bump steer isn't caused by pushing the wheels out to the edge. It's just an issue with the suspension tuning and how BMW has the steering and suspension tied together. The new GTI actually has it's wheels farther forward, and "at the corners" than the new MINI and it suffers none of the bump steering that the MINI's have. Even the Countryman suffers from it. It's just an issue with how BMW has tuned the front drive suspensions. Honestly, get a VW GTI if you want your money's worth. I just drove one on Thursday (the new MKVII) and it's the absolute best hatch I've ever driven. It doesn't have the rough edges like the previous MINI's, but what it makes up for is stability, speed, comfort, bang for your buck, style, and quality. The new GTI literally can run circles around the new MINI. I actually saw this standing mile test too, and I knew the F56 wasn't as fast from my test drive, but that video proved it. You know BMW was conservative with the R56's power output and performance specs, but they've been overly generous with this new MINI's times. The Automobile magazine video proves it. It's slower than the R56 S. It never felt like it had the power, torque, or flexibility anywhere in its rev range to match the R56 S.
I don't speed when I drive, but I do have to zip around cars that are driving too slow on city streets. The Mini Is the perfect car if you drive like me.
I’ve been lucky enough to have owned the 1st and 2nd generation and now in the 3rd generation. The r53 (1st gen) just feels better when going around corners/turns but my car was also dropped and had the JCW tuning kit. Still my favorite of all gens
Just ordered the 2016 cooper SD , with JCW styling kit , anybody got one as in 2015 , what do you think of it .
Thanks
Mark
When does MINI usually release the next year models? I see this was made in April 2014. I'm looking at getting a Mini. Online right now is the F56, is that what's going to stay, or is a 2016 one coming soon?
does that mini come standard with the personalised interior lighting around the door handles etc..?
Jason Woodley It’s part of the chilli pack. Or a separate add on.
If we can only get BMW to spring for the inevitable mechanical repairs we'd love the car to death. lol
mini cooper s or jcw??
has anyone been able to test drive one with the heads-up display? i was planning to add this feature without nav, (since i can get a navigation system for cheaper than .... $1250?!).... any suggestions? please inbox me thanks!
Don't buy one.
Yes, I have the heads up display without the navigation feature, its cool but somewhat unnecessary.
cherrylicious2 blocks front view
I have the heads up display with navigation and it's the best navigation system I've ever had
+alexandre dray
thanks for replying...i never did get the mini cooper, but someday..... *sigh*
Please be honest and discuss the previous generations of mechanical and electrical issues with the Mini
Previous GEN Mini's had Chrysler engines and transmissions... So of course reliability was bad... this Mini here has all bMW parts from the 1series. So you can't compare the two in order to throw shade on the New Mini. I own a 14 Cooper S and it's the most reliable car I've owned out of the Vw Jetta vr6, Ford Thunderbird, Mazda 323, Chrysler Sebring convert... with exception to the bmw z3 convertible I owned, and maybeny 93 Honda Accord LX... oil changes are full synthetic in the Mini at 70bucks from dealer, tires about 700-1000 at dealer, dual ac flap is 511.00 and that's all that I've experiencing with my 2014 3rd Gen Mini...
I've owned a 2007 Cooper S with the Chrysler Engine and transmission... I had engine problems but no transmission problems, I had a cracked head that cost me 700 bucks then it started leaking again and I was advised they will need to seal the middle part of engine then probably the lower part and it would have been 800 bucks for each section.... I'm so glad BMW took a serious interest in the Mini and Invested their Engines and Transmissions in the Mini instead of Chrysler Part. This is why Fiat has so many problems... Chrysler bought out Fiat... Current Gen MINI'S are GREAT cars... resale value not so much, but I'm a mini Owner for lIfe... so resale isn't an option for me.
So many ppl told me NOT to buy a Mini because they have so many problems and that I would regret it... they talked doi much trash about this car and I'm SO GLAD I DIDN'T LISTEN BUT DID my own research, best Car I've bought. My brother has a Mercedes SLK and he's had more problems than me... his main problem is that My 2014 Cooper S blow the doors off his Mercedes SLK TWICE! LOL. Mini RockS!
They need to make the MINI paceman adventure 2015 truck :/ I want that sooooooooo bad and mini would make millions ;3 plz make it
I want one 😭
I have a 2002 S that I bought new. I am pretty sure that was the first year BMW made them not 2000. I will be test driving a new one soon but I don't imagine they are that far removed from mine. The word flat describing the handling baffles me. Odd review.
Mary Marshall agree. The handling feels alive with great feedback in the twisties but also competent on the motorway without any nervousness. Top marks from me...
he forget to comment on the quirkiness of the car .... oh wait !
It's a cute car but cuteness doesn't motivate it or keep it from expensive repairs. I would buy 1 but my hands, arms, neck and back don't allow it.
How is the maintenance?
Mini say a service every two years but I would stick to once a year servicing to keep the oil fresh for chain
hard to spot the difference on the outside from the old one? they ruined it. there is no bumper, no more room for the trademark fog-lamps. inside i guess you can argue, but i did not care the window switch was in a special place. it's reminiscent of a historic 1960's car. those cars had personalities and character. their design defined the golden era of automobiles.
False
the main problem with the mini was it broke all the goddamn time.
The only issue I've had with Mini cars is although they handle like go-karts, they also bounce and skitter over pavement irregularities in the same manner.
It's a downside, that's for sure, but the new model doesn't do it at all. It doesn't feel like MINIs of the past at all, a lot less sporty feeling. It may please regular car owners who just want something "cute" and "comfortable," but the enthusiasts aren't happy.
He forgot to mention all the mini mechanical flaws with the fuel pump and powertrain. I owned 2 mini's and they failed for the same reason. Stay away from mini.
hoi yuen This is new inside out, including the engines.
I dont understand why these cars have so little power, hondas make 200 HP without a turbo....
If you have driven the previous R56 S model, you will understand that German cars put out much more power than their Japanese rivals, even though they claim the same or less. The previous generation N18 engine has been dynoed multiple times and has consistently been putting out over 180hp at the wheels. Try that with a Honda Civic Si and let me know the results. Also, you have to realize that the previous MINI with its 181hp, also had 192lb-ft of torque. A Civic Si can only dream of numbers like that. I do wish that with this newest MINI, they would've just used the new B38 1.5T but in a higher state of tune - see the i8 for example. It would have less weight over the front axle (increasing handling abilities), and it sounds unique. This newest MINI feels slower than its predecessors even though it "has more power". MINI is claiming quicker 0-60 times than before, but just today I saw an article on Automobile Magazine, and the new MINI ran a 15.3 1/4 mile and only a 92.3mph trap speed. The previous car ran mid-14's and 97mph trap speed's stock. As a former Civic Si owner *2009 Si Coupe*, I can tell you that the R56 S N18 engine walks all over the K20 and K24. Even with less quoted horsepower, it more than makes up for it in its ability to pull straight from 900RPM-6500RPM. It has gobs more torque, and the car weighs less than a Civic. Overall, you get a very quick front driver, thats a blast to drive fast. This newest MINI doesn't really do it for me. While its not the worst car on the road, its certainly eclipsed by the previous generation, and the MkVII GTI. I run high-5's in my R56, and low-14 1/4 miles. All I have on the car is a simple JB+ plug n play. Before that, I could run a 6.1sec 0-60, and a 14.5 1/4 mile.
Jack Carlisle you're over exaggerating little bit there buddy. As a former RSX Type S owner I dynoed at 202/144 with a K20 and only mods were intake and catless. With a $200 reflash torque would've increased a good bit too. Not bad for under $500 worth of mods for an all motor car.
The K20 was a great engine, but it was hampered by no torque, so-so fuel economy and the fact you really had to rev the snot out of it to accelerate at anything more than a snails pace. I snatched up a 2015 GTI and boy does it go. I see what +jackcarlisle is talking about with regards to the K20. I definitely agree this new MINI is awful.
TurboCharged ChiliPepper Yea the mini and GTI has more torque because it's forced induction. I guess i'm part of the dying breed, in that i still love high revving NA motors even though it lacks torque. However, i don't care for drag racing or highway pulls so i guess that's why i've been happy with the K20.
this seems a totally useless car for Canada ( except for maybe August) and for the price you could actually buy something that will get you where you're going instead...
you could say the same thing about every FWD car...even though *Canada's* top selling car *is FWD*
Jack Carlisle
there are 2 or 3 mini's in my (small) town - I never see them in winter ( which is usually from Nov - May...so, in a way it's kinda like owning a motorcycle ( Harley's are starting about the same price as well...)...and yes most cars sold are fwd....just like most burgers ate are McDonald's...doesn't make them the most tasty...
lmao. The largest percentages of Canadian populations are in cities. Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, etc... and their surrounding areas. If you live in a remote place, buy a Countryman All4 S or JCW. Small, decently nimble, and has 4WD. I wouldn't ever buy one of these new MINI's. I have a 2011 S Hatch 6MT, and it's fantastic. This newest car sucks.
The largest populations of most any country live in the cities - not only Canada...but I can't use one of these because I sometimes need to carry more than a couple boxes of Kleenex and a shaving kit...glad to hear you like what you have...the minis just don't factor into my life(style)...
new MINI is a fraud. Faux engine noises piped in from the stereo, and this guy has NO IDEA what the hell he is talking about. The new suspension tuning is much softer than previous models = more body roll, and LESS FLATNESS in curves. The new S Hatch has no top end power, no low end thrust like the N18 engine, and it sounds a lot less ferocious. The previous MINI had one of the best sounding 4-cylinder engines, it had instantaneous boost, and it loved to rev. The new 2.0L engine is the antithesis of all of those things. Also, BMW is ridiculous to not offer an LSD standard. The VW GTI smears the floor with this car all day long, as does the previous 2 generations. This car also looks like a clown designed it. The front fascia has so many holes, and is only getting more ridiculous with the JCW version. The grille looks like an angry fish with a big fat black bottom lip, and the taillights look preposterously oversized. Overall, this car is about a 2/10.
***** Yes, when the E9x ended production, BMW plummeted to making expensive Camry's that do not last as long and cost you a lot more in maintenance after the warranty expires. Why anyone would pick up one of these hideous POS' over a leftover R56 S or JCW, or even a gently used R56, I will not understand.
what do you mean by new MINI? I want to buy my first car i want a mini cooper 2007 down to about 2005 between that range since i don't car for the look of the car past that age. I have heard of it making noise but people says they have had there for 5 to 7 years+ with no problem and someone with a ford focus braking down the same day some one brought it. I think it depends on the products. Everything has at least 1 bad review. but if not what do you think is a good first time car that also has cute appeal maybe a Fiat maybe???
no detail about the car !! terrible review
Mini has destroyed its name! Too big Its no longer a mini anymore