When I placed the order for my 2008
JCW S the dealers were pretty clued up. Although they didn't know anything about the
JCW (but then neither do we) they were fully aware of the R56 MINI in general. The lovely sales lady even said they had seen the photos and watched the videos on MINI2. That put a big smile on my face
I would say if you go to place an order for the R56 and the dealer doesn't know about it, walk out. If the sales team are not interested in learning about the latest models and the latest details in the MINI world then how can they be best placed to advise you on your purchase?
Unfortunately some staff are there for a job but take no real interest in what they are selling. Those that have enthusiasm for the product are the ones to deal with.