2006 MCS on order. Keep or cancel and order 2007?

[MartijnCA]

This is my first post, but I don't think my current dilemma is unique. I have a 2006 MCS on order here in the USofA. Now that the new Mini has been revealed, what should I do?

I like the improved performance and better gas mileage of the new S. However, I'm not sold on the design (esp. the plastic rear pillar and the grille on the new S). The interior materials look nicer, but the center stack is not to my liking.

It's just kind of weird that I'll be paying MSRP for a model that's going out of production... What do others think? Anybody going through the same decision process?

Motor on! Thanks for you input!

[KPKalle]

Personally I'm going for a new R56 S. The only design element I don't really like is the side repeaters. But search around on the forum to get other peoples views. For instance here http://www.mini2.com/forum/2nd-gen-m...eneration.html and here http://www.mini2.com/forum/general-d...mini-then.html.

Make sure you get to see an R56 'in the metal' before finally deciding

[sfgrunge]

MartijnCA,

I had a similar experience. I have had my 2006 MCS-JCW for only 2 months. I ordered mine in April and picked it up in June. I thought about waiting for an '07, but there were several things that sold me on the 2006. The biggest factor for me was that the 2007 is essentially a new car (new engine, new body, new interior, etc). The 2006 in my mind is just an improved/updated 2002. I don't mind cutting edge, just not bleeding edge.

There were 2 other factors were that the 2007 has a turbo instead of a supercharger. The hair on the back of my neck stands up when I hear that supercharger whine (it must be a sickness. ). And the last thing was that I also wanted the JCW, which at the time that I ordered was a huge unknown for the 2007.

Something else that you might want to think about is that the 2007s will most likely not hit the US until Dec/Jan (according to Gabe at Motoringfile.com).

Hope that helps and good luck.
-Andrew

[Griffon]

I don't know how often you replace your car or any other specifics but with the 07 Mini not coming out in the US till next year why not keep the 06 you have on order and then in a year or two swap it for an 07 model?

I'm sure you would still be very happy with an 06 and that gives you time to check out an 07, decide if you like it and let them work out all the kinks in the new model before you buy.

Just a suggestion

[Tigger, Eeyore & Roo]

You obviously liked the current one enough to order it and you have reservations about the new one. Yes, the new engine has a much improved spec, but if you "are not sold in the design" (when the current MINI is such a good looking car) then that has to be a major problem.

I guess you've answered your own question; keep the current MCS on order!

Tigger.

[Ferroequine]

I would go with your gut feeling. Keep the '06 MCS on order, and see if you change your mind 2 years from now.

Oh, and we all pay MSRP.

[mick225]

Bear in mind the new MCS uses a Peugeot/Citroen engine, IMO not good even if BMW have helped. Still French.

[Paul]

Bear in mind the current engine is mostly designed by Chrysler and built by Tritec in Brazil, whereas the new engine is mostly designed by BMW and build in Britain. Swings and roundabouts I guess. Current engine, if unrefined, is pretty much bullet proof, and a lot of fun, the new engine felt better to drive in terms of performance, but is largely unknown.

[R1]

Quote: Originally Posted by Paul Mullett (original)

Bear in mind the current engine is mostly designed by Chrysler and built by Tritec in Brazil, whereas the new engine is mostly designed by BMW and build in Britain.

I remember a certain MINI gearbox that was built in Britain!!! I remember because my last 2 MINI Cooper's both had them replaced!!

[Paul]

Me too, then they replaced it with the much better Getrag unit. Made in Blanquefort, France.

[R1]

Mind you I remember a certain MINI I bought in the first year of production that BMW/MINI took back because bit's kept falling off it!

Won't do that first year of production thing again!!

[sequence]

Quote: Originally Posted by KPKalle (original)

Make sure you get to see an R56 'in the metal' before finally deciding

In the US, that might not work. By the time the demos arrive late this year one won't be able to spec order an 06 anymore. Right now, I'd stick with the 06, and wait until the 08 model to address and correct first-year bugs. Then trade up.

[RDNZL]

Hello,
New to the Forum, and I too just ordered the 06 MCS w/JCW. Ordered last month should have in early Oct.
Here are my 2 cents about 06 vs 07
1) first year of change.............bugs not worked out yet?
2) not broke, don't fix
3) 07 not to hit the states until feb 07? Need it NOW :-)
4) Last year of current body/engine style!

I thought about it for like 2 seconds. My 06 has just moved from "on order" to "scheduled for production" !