Full Second Generation Test Drive Report Online - US Prices and Options Added

[SamHarrison]

Quote: Originally Posted by JG.26 (original)

What really put me off the MINI was seeing the new model with bits of sticky tape disguising various bits and pieces, although if nothing else it did a good job of hiding the kak handed redesign. It's only a car for gawds sake and less of the cloak and dagger and silence routine would give the marque more credit

couldn't have said it any better myself..although i might try from now and then..

Subaru made the mistake of changing the way the imprezza looked.. at first the public liked it and then they realised that the older shape looked so much better...what did subaru do? yes..that's right they put the older version back into production and just did refinements to the engine.

Mini never had a problem with the way it looks.. there was no need to remove the side vents and replace them with plastic false vents like something a chav boy racer would do to their escort with bits from halfords

the central column stack design is wrong.. you now have no personal choice in the kind of stereo you can have in your car..

The rear bumper looks awfull
the indicators in the headlights look wrong
I say the only thing they got right was sticking a turbo on the engine instead of the heavy superchager/intercooler... all those mini's going vrrrrooooomm tiiiissshhh are really going to turn a lot more heads..

[jordan]

Quote: Originally Posted by Paul Mullett (original)

I wasn't threatening them, I never said I want to beat them with a stick.

rofl

[SamHarrison]

Quote: Originally Posted by jordan (original)

rofl

yeah the typical head of the maffia isn't he....

[PmP]

Like the bit were it says the old convertible will stilll remain in production for a while, so could get a convertible works S early next year????

[Deutsch]

Hope you took plenty of pics!!!!

[Ralph'sPop]

Paul,
fine report you filed in the interim. can't wait to read your after-embargo piece. i hope you can spend some time on the 6-speed auto--shift points, intuitive computer adaptation--as well as roadability, e.g. handling and bump absorption on ratty roads. regarding the embargo breaker, that sxxx has happened to all of us who write to deadline. it's usually more the fault of an editor/publisher than the poor devil who filed the piece, somebody who caves in to advertiser pressure or other fiscal considerations...

Thanks,
Randy Wilson

[Smurfn]

Can't wait for the full report

[Paul]

Due to a major moving of goalposts (thank you super soaraway Sun), we're going live this evening with the full report.

But in the meanwhile, here's some photos for you to enjoy from the event:

http://www.mini2.com/images/barca_one/slideshow.php

In summary the car is very different indeed, but it's actually pretty bloomin' marvelous.

[Paul]

I'd publish it now but I'm leaving now for an appointment I cant miss and I've got to reduce the novel to a review and cut the waffle too.

[Olly.]

Thanks Paul

[I love MINI, Laura]

WOW THANKS PAUL!!

Good news you brought it forward. I was away from a PC for two days on the 10th and 11th!

Great pics looking forward to the report!

[miniman23]

Splendid pics Paul thanks. Looking forward to your report.

[goodingm]

MCS looks really good in Red

[Helen B]

Wow it looks great. I have ordered the chili red. I also loved the piano black trim might change this now.hmmmmmmmmmmmm!!!!!!!!

[supa-dupa-cooper]

Now originally i didnt think Chili Red looked right on the new car, but i think i might have just changed my mind

Still loving the Laser Blue best though

Would also like to see an Astro Black COOPER S.