Be sure to check web sites and reviews and get the bugs worked out during warrantee-BMW will fix almost anything legit that you complain about without a hassle - it,'s up to you to know what they are - do your research. Once we got through that we have to give this driving experience an A+. The negatives I see in other reviews are good concerns but trade offs to understand - this is a performance car with fuel economy to boot - and is bound to lack the mushy ride of a "boat" - it's supposed to. Be sure to get the sport handling package and a 5/6 speed. If you understand how to use the RPM's the base model has all the power required to leave most anything except the best in the dust on challenging roads. After four years can't think of any car that even comes close at this price point - you will definately get alot of bang for your buck and a highly rated "Green" car for all gas vs. a hybrid that you will always be looking for an excuse to take for a spin.

Bought 2005 S with all options with the exception of the navigation system. Performs great on open highway and in town alike. I have 22000 miles on it and half were on the Autobahn. It handles well above 125 MPH for extended periods and at 80 or 90 in rain or fog. It seems to be too easy for the speed to creep up on you while driving this rocket propelled gocart.
Have had some problems with MINI Roadside service and them paying expenses associated with repairs. The power steering pump is very vulnerable to rocks, sticks and snow. One has to be towed to dealer for this minor repair. Order and install the after-market skid plate if you live on a dirt road or in an area that get loads of snow in winter.

Bought the 2007 hardtop base as a gas efficient commuter/runabout car when gas crossed $3/gal last year. I think these Mini's are one of the most brilliant cars ever. I've had 2 1/2. This hardtop, an S Convertible and I just sold my son's 2007 manual base. Two of these cars have the new BMW-Peugot engine which was a change from the 2006 model. The 2007 has almost 24k miles now and here's my rating:

It's a wonderful feeling when you're getting up to 42mpg in Colorado as gas prices rise. Check it out and you'll see that your 118hp engine gets the same mileage as a 70hp Smart and most hybrids. Hybrids really only have an advantage in city driving, not highway. The engine has plenty of hp and is really geared well at the lower gears. You might have to do an extra downshift in the mountains. If you drive many cars you know it's not just about hp but about how it's used and how the car is geared. This car maximizes performance and economy. If you want more performance to "challenge" other cars you need a different vehicle.

The styling is great. It's either your style or not, but your car does not get mistaken for any other car on the road. The inside space is amazingly utilized as well. You can be 6'7" and fit. The genius is most of the car space is in the driver-passenger area and is quite comfortable. With the smaller middle console (from the old '06s) you have more lateral leg room, too. If you're thinking about one, just go sit in one and see. As other reviewers here have said the all-around vision is great. Good design on the pillars and roof height. Last, for extra room, you just push the back seats down and you have a large amount of trunk space when you need it. The best part is the custom and unique styling options you get on the interior. Mine was yellow and black and I love the different colored lighting you get on the interior lamps. You can switch between about 4 or 5 colors. Kids will like it, too.

The only negative I've noticed is a noisy sunroof open or closed. You don't really notice it until you're on the highway at speed. Maintenance-wise I had an electronic problem in that the windows and turn signal simulataneously malfunctioned right after I bought it. It just took a quick reprogram and has never been a problem.

Who said a commuter car has to be boring? To me, you get BMW quality and handling, an interesting and unique interior and exterior styling, the top resale value of all cars and mileage as good as hybrids. What's not to love in this picture?

We love this car! With the high test fuel we are getting 46 miles to the gallon; with the low test 41! It handles well, is solidly built, and with custom ordering not costing any more than buying stock built, you can get a car exactly the way you want it. You just have to be patient and wait for it, but the wait was worth it!

Ive had it towed x2. the motor in the windows replaced x2. 3 new batteries, broken seat, fuel pump and transmission worked on!! Its been a night mare. Are the 08 better??

I leased my '08 Cooper S about 2 months ago. I have enjoyed every minute of driving this car. It still puts a smile on my face when I get to zip around the city in it. Plus, it has good fuel economy and great looks. This car will get people to strike up conversations with you everywhere you go.

As far as the rough ride, I expected that a little. I mean, I did opt for the "S" version after all. Even though it has a stiffer suspension, it still provides a pretty comfortable ride. (And don't tell anyone, but around 100 mph and up, it rides very smooth and sticks to the road like no other car I've driven).

Great looker but too expensive for 118 horsepower. $22,000 for a weak performance 4 cylinder. This thing should cost as much as a Honda Fit not a Mitsu Eclipse. I will not challenge other drivers on the road due to it small size. I could have bought a VW rabbit with at least 50 more horsepower/torque for $4000 less!!! But it still looks so cool. I would like the gauge cluster in front the steering wheel better and the dealer need to change it's snobby attitude.

I HAVE NOT HAD IT LONG, BUT SO FAR SO GOOD. I GET A LOT OF ATTENTION IN THAT CAR, WHAT A HEAD TURNER! I COMMUTE TO MY JOB. SO, FOR ME IT IS THE PERFECT CAR FOR THE JOB + YOU CAN LOOK GOOD DOING IT= EASIER ON YOUR WALLET, AS WELL!!! GREAT ATTENTION TO DETAIL ON THE INSIDE AND OUT. THE HANDSFREE PHONE ROCKS, MAINLY BECAUSE I OPTED FOR THE MANUAL. I WILL COME BACK AGAIN AND REVIEW ONCE I HAVE OWNED IT LONGER, BUT FOR NOW I AM VERY IMPRESSED AND SATISFIED CUSTOMER! LET ME ALSO ADD THAT THIS IS THE EASIEST CAR I HAVE EVER WASHED IN MY LIFE= LESS HOURS IN YOUR LIFE WASHING YOUR CAR!

What a GREAT CAR!!! Handling, ride, sportiness, brakes, acceleration, fuel economy, looks, fit and finish, a LARGE after-market selection, easy to mod, just an overall EXCELLENT driving experience!!!! I'd definitedly buy another one!

As Non Attractive the Mini is,it's not the worst I've seen on the road,Scion get's the Ugliest IMO,but the Sticker Price is way to High for this Lil Car & Not worth the high price and lack of local dealerships makes it all the more Less Appealing.