I have now done about 60 miles round the lanes etc. As its my first Mini I can't compare it with previous model. My points of reference are my Boxster S and, dare I say it, the Saxo VTS it replaces.
Really impressed with the quality feel, it feels really solidly built. No rattles. It clearly has lots of power as wants to go. I think its harder to drive slowly than the Boxster. Nice four square feel on the road but perhaps a bit more insulated from the feel of what the wheels are doing than I expected.
I like the radio controls with the speedo except the rather isolated on/off volume control. I love gadgets and being able to program the options is great although it took me a while to discover that I needed the ignition on to do it.
Its taking me time to get used to the impression of limited depth to the windows when in the car. Maybe the previous model was better in this regard as i understand the waistline has been raised a little.
I find the standard suspension fine as the roads round here are not always very smooth and I would not want the ride any firmer.
A few minor disappointments. There is no oil level read out when starting from cold. The Boxster and the Saxo both have this and I like to have that reminder. And, as has been noted elsewhere, no temperature guage. But these are minor points.
I am very happy and looking forward to getting some more miles on. |