| Mini Cooper (base) reliability and highway commuter
I currently own a 2004 VW R32. Wonderful car that has been very reliable over her 110k miles! However, a lengthy 42 mile commute (each way) and joint problems mean it is time for me to put the VW up for sale for something more "reasonable".
I have 2 questions:
1) I know there isn't much reliability data out there since the new engines came in 2011. But what does long-term, high-mileage reliability look like? I'll be putting 30,000 miles a year on the Mini (!!!), so I want something decently reliable without major "scares". I will be buying an automatic Mini.
2) What is the ride quality like on the highway? As much as I love the ride and handling of my R32, it is just too firm, steering is too heavy, and driving it really fatigues me. I would be getting a base, non-sport.
Cheers!
Jonathan | 
