• Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Couldn't care less about such nonsense.

    What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

    Those that have an interest in cars like it. Others would likely be indifferent.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes. I like the big unstressed engine in a small car combination.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Same again probably.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    Yes

    What price did you pay?

    £33,000

    When did you buy the car?

    May 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Yes - reasonable discount + trade-in.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Engine, overall quality.

    What was the dealer like?

    Excellent. Cars of Bury St Edmunds are a small independent BMW & Mini dealer - rather different to the corporates, thankfully.

  • Driving it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very responsive & reasonably comfortable. The engine is mega - smooth & powerful at all rpm but ok on fuel on a long run (35mpg on super unleaded). A bit too much road noise on coarse surfaces, but that seems to be a common problem these days because of big wheels & low profile tyres.

    What's it like to park?

    Easyish. Steering is light & quick, auto gearbox with just right amount of creep. C pillars restrict vision, but parking sensors help.

  • Living with it

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Nothing.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Practicality is not my priority, but the car meets my requirements in this regard.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The auto gearbox. Why anyone would want a dual clutch box in preference to this is beyond me.