[Saxford]

Hi Folks

I’m pretty new to this forum – it’s great, loads of impressively helpful comments and info – and am now within a day or three of confirming the spec for a new MC auto, after weeks of indecision!!

Probably going for SS/B with Redwood Red interior, but having trouble choosing between that and NFR with a PS roof & mirrors (had a good quote from local dealer for the PS re-spray work). Would go for beige leather with the NFR/PS combo. Not having seen NFR in the metal yet, just a little concerned that we may be disappointed when it arrives.

Still pondering the above, but meanwhile grateful for any feedback on the following:

Headlights – go for bi-xenons, or be content with the standard lights but fit with aftermarket brighter bulbs and spend the difference on the “additional headlights” option? Not much in it on budget – any views on the comparative benefits?

Sport button – tempted to try it for fun, but would it make much difference with an auto box?

Haven’t been able to try either of the above in the flesh, and would really appreciate any feedback.

Cheers

[CC07ERS]

get the xenons sport button with an auto box waste of cash colour is a personal thing you have to make your own mind up on that

[Paul]

I'd go for the Xenons for sure, if you drive much at night anyway (and for a lot of months of the year I guess anyone from the UK does!).

I'd say yes to the sport button, but it's not essential, the main difference is the steering feel, which is "heavier" (more realistic really) with it on.

[harrietb]

DEFINATELY DEFINATELY GET THE XENONS! I nearly didn't, then went out for a drive on the night time, and thought, "I can't see!" so I specced them. Don't know what they're like on the Mini? But on other cars they make a HUGE difference.

Colour is personal, I do like the Sparkling Silver, but I also like NFR so it's up to you really! I'd go for the beige interior though - not a big fan of redwood red - but again, its not my car so you choose!!

[KenL]

As nightfire red is not available yet, it is tough to comment. I doubt I would like it as much as CHILLI red though.

SS looks very nice with a black roof. The redwood red looks good, but I am not sure I could live with the red door cards long term.

Sport button? I don't have it in my Cooper so can't miss it. The car dives beautifully without it so I doubt I would spec it now. It wasn't available when I ordered mine.

Lights. I have the standard lights and have fitted better bulbs (Osram Silverstars), not really driven much in the dark out of town yet. I don't know what the new Xenons are like. I drove an R53 MINI with them and did not really think they were much better than standard. If you think you'll need them, get them. Remember, the additional headlights only operate on full beam and you can't use that very often.

Good luck, whatever you decide.

[Morri7]

You have to get the Xenons! The additional lights can be added later if you want them......I think!

[KenL]

Quote: Originally Posted by Morri7 (original)

The additional lights can be added later if you want them......I think!

Yes, they are only ever fitted by dealers, not the factory.

[Olly.]

Welcome

I would definitely say go for the Bi-Xenons they are superb in everyday night time driving, but they are especially good in rain & fog where they offer so much more visibility than standard halogen lights.

The sport button would be worth it as well, it weightens up the steering so perfectly and really improves the throttle response. I'm sure i've read it does something to the auto box as well

[KenL]

Quote: Originally Posted by Olly. (original)

The sport button would be worth it as well, it weightens up the steering so perfectly and really improves the throttle response. I'm sure i've read it does something to the auto box as well

It should work well, but no-one has tested sport button in a Cooper or Cooper auto.

[Paul]

Quote: Originally Posted by Olly. (original)

.... I'm sure i've read it does something to the auto box as well

Shifts quicker and later in the rev range.

[Olly.]

Quote: Originally Posted by KenL (original)

It should work well, but no-one has tested sport button in a Cooper or Cooper auto.

Yes very true but I am assuming it does the same thing in the Cooper as it does in the S?

[KenL]

Quote: Originally Posted by Olly. (original)

Yes very true but I am assuming it does the same thing in the Cooper as it does in the S?

I agree, I think it will have the same effect, on the steering at least. Enhanced throttle response may not be so dramatic on the lower powered engine.

On the steering, is it really better or just different? I am happy with the steering feel/weight on mine.

[Sowellman]

Quote: Originally Posted by KenL (original)

It should work well, but no-one has tested sport button in a Cooper or Cooper auto.

Gabe from Motoringfile recently drove both the Cooper and the Cooper S with sport buttons in each. Here's his report:

"Driving in the Cooper and Cooper S with the sport button turned off (the default position) there’s little question the car is meant to be easier to drive for the masses. Its steering is lighter, the throttle response is more laid back, and the overall feeling is one of comfort compared to the previous car. One could easily be fooled (as some journalists have been) into thinking that BMW missed the mark with the new MINI with the sport button in the off position.

"With the sport button on however, the car comes alive. In a fraction of a second it becomes a more refined version of the car that preceded it - the R50 and R53. In fact the steering felt weightier and the throttle response was noticeably sharper than the stock 2002-2006 Cooper S.

"With the sport button (made possible by MINI’s new electronic steering and some clever ECU tuning) MINI is able to appeal to a larger base of customers while offering a car that retains the key attributes that have made the previous generation such a success. A classic case of a win-win."

[KenL]

After Gabe's review, I wish I had it now!

[Mini Moo]

Xenons without a doubt. I've had a loan R56 for the past 3 weeks which had them and the difference is staggering!

[Fanis]

Definetely get the Xenons...the make a huge difference.

Also, the Sport Button is good for the Auto, as it makes the gearchanges 0.5secs faster (on top of the engine response and the steering feel which does with the manual box). For me the Sport button is more important when you get the Auto than the Manual box.

[Saxford]

Hey guys – many thanks for all your comments, very much appreciated.

Will take all your inputs on board during the final speccing. Looks like we’re going to get a build date for last week or so in March – will post some pics when she arrives.

Thanks again to one and all for your help.

Cheers