MINI Cooper S (2002 - 2006) 1.6 3d (04) (2006/56) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I think it should say that i'm individual, but as you see them every day that's probably not the case. It definitely does say "i've no kids"

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

They all seem to like it except some friends call it a bit "girly".

Would you buy this car again and why?

I wouldn't buy another MINI purely because I like to try different cars every time I change.

What are you likely to buy next?

I like the new 1 series coupe, the Porsche Cayman and I really don't know why the VW Phaeton!!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£18,500

When did you buy the car?

October 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

There aren't many deals available on the MINI, and thus no discount was vaialable. I did however get a better PX deal, and was able to keep the tax back on my old car to sweeten the deal a little

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I bought this vehicle after test driving on a whim one Friday afternoon. I was looking to change but really wasn't after anything like this. The 1hr test drive with no salesman with me was a great selling point.

What was the dealer like?

Very helpful from start to finish,and has continued to be when some small problems came up.

What's it like to drive?

Corners very well but the ride (17" wheels and run flat tyres) is very hard (but easy to live with). Fuel wise the car has returned an average of 36mpg over 10k miles with a high of almost 40mpg on one occasion. Tyre life seems okay with the fronts about 50% worn and the rear 25% at 10k miles.

What's it like to park?

Being a small car it should be easy, however it can be difficult to believe just how close you can get to things!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Both door seals replaced due to a small amount of water ingress. Boot lock replaced when it started making a nasty noise. Throttle pedal assembly replaced after rattle developed and a leak from the P/Steering reservoir was fixed with a new cap & seal.

What's most practical about your car?

The size of the car means that practicality isn't it's strongest suit, however 4 people are okay for short trips, and the boot is alright for 2 weekend bags or a weeks shopping.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The xenon headlamps and cruise control are particular favourites. The whine from the supercharger when accelerating hard always brings a smile too.