Comments on: MF Exclusive: Behind the Wheel of the R56 http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/ MINI Cooper news, reviews and opinion. Sat, 20 Mar 2010 15:20:20 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.1 hourly 1 By: MotoringFile » Archive » 2007 MINI Reviews Out Soon http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-46163 MotoringFile » Archive » 2007 MINI Reviews Out Soon Wed, 26 Jul 2006 12:48:58 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-46163 <p>[...] However if you want a sneak peak at the sneak peak, be sure to read the very first review of seat time in the R56 published right here on MotoringFile last November: Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI [...]</p> [...] However if you want a sneak peak at the sneak peak, be sure to read the very first review of seat time in the R56 published right here on MotoringFile last November: Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI [...]

]]> By: Jorge http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-44415 Jorge Thu, 13 Jul 2006 08:24:37 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-44415 <p>I think it's hilarious how some people are so quick to cry about how "BMW IS RUINING OUR BELOVED MINI!"</p> <p>Especially when BMW created the MINI you all know and love to drive today!</p> <p>There will always be cars that are fun-to-drive, whether it's a MINI or not.</p> <p>Get a grip, guys. Seriously.</p> I think it’s hilarious how some people are so quick to cry about how “BMW IS RUINING OUR BELOVED MINI!”

Especially when BMW created the MINI you all know and love to drive today!

There will always be cars that are fun-to-drive, whether it’s a MINI or not.

Get a grip, guys. Seriously.

]]> By: marcia pike http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-43965 marcia pike Thu, 06 Jul 2006 16:47:55 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-43965 <p>HAS ANYONE THOUGHT TO ASK WHAT KIND OF PRICE INCREASE WE MAY BE LOOKING AT IN 2007? I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ALSO WILL THE DEALERS SHARE MORE TRUTHFUL INFO IN TIME SO IF THE 07'S AREN'T SUITABLE WE WILL BE ABLE TO ORDER 06'S INSTEAD. I WAS READY TO ORDER THE 06 AND WAS EXCITED ABOUT GETTING ONE BUT NOW AFTER READING ALL THE FEEDBACK I AM NOT SURE WHICH ONE WILL BE THE MOST FUN TO DRIVE! AS LONG AS IT IS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT LOOKING THATS NOT A PROBLEM. I HOPE IT WILL MAINTAIN ITS UNIQUNESS AND FUN FACTOR.</p> HAS ANYONE THOUGHT TO ASK WHAT KIND OF PRICE INCREASE WE MAY BE LOOKING AT IN 2007? I WOULD LIKE TO KNOW ALSO WILL THE DEALERS SHARE MORE TRUTHFUL INFO IN TIME SO IF THE 07′S AREN’T SUITABLE WE WILL BE ABLE TO ORDER 06′S INSTEAD. I WAS READY TO ORDER THE 06 AND WAS EXCITED ABOUT GETTING ONE BUT NOW AFTER READING ALL THE FEEDBACK I AM NOT SURE WHICH ONE WILL BE THE MOST FUN TO DRIVE! AS LONG AS IT IS SLIGHTLY DIFFERENT LOOKING THATS NOT A PROBLEM. I HOPE IT WILL MAINTAIN ITS UNIQUNESS AND FUN FACTOR.

]]> By: MotoringFile » Archive » Next Generation MINI Revealed (Updated) http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-32585 MotoringFile » Archive » Next Generation MINI Revealed (Updated) Tue, 28 Feb 2006 07:04:29 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-32585 <p>[...] In general these new engines will offer exceptional power and a muscular torque curve throughout a very wide useful speed range, at the same time reducing both fuel consumption and keeping weight to a minimum. In fact since we’ve written this story we’ve had a couple of people write to give us their initial thoughts on the pre-production powerplants in test mules. You can read the story here. You can also check out the video of a 2007 MCS testing mule at the Nurburgring. [...]</p> [...] In general these new engines will offer exceptional power and a muscular torque curve throughout a very wide useful speed range, at the same time reducing both fuel consumption and keeping weight to a minimum. In fact since we’ve written this story we’ve had a couple of people write to give us their initial thoughts on the pre-production powerplants in test mules. You can read the story here. You can also check out the video of a 2007 MCS testing mule at the Nurburgring. [...]

]]> By: MotoringFile » 2006 » February » 28 http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-32581 MotoringFile » 2006 » February » 28 Tue, 28 Feb 2006 06:51:07 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-32581 <p>[...] Error 404 - Not Found MotoringFile Featured Articles Next Generation MINI Articles (all) Next Generation MINI Revealed Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI JCW GP Kit US Annoucement Chicago Autoshow Gallery JCW GP at Geneva (final release info) Seven New Colors for 2007 Getrag's All Wheel Drive MINI In Depth MINI Release Info on Next Gen Engines Top 5 Most Popular MF Articles [...]</p> [...] Error 404 – Not Found MotoringFile Featured Articles Next Generation MINI Articles (all) Next Generation MINI Revealed Behind the Wheel of the 2007 MINI JCW GP Kit US Annoucement Chicago Autoshow Gallery JCW GP at Geneva (final release info) Seven New Colors for 2007 Getrag’s All Wheel Drive MINI In Depth MINI Release Info on Next Gen Engines Top 5 Most Popular MF Articles [...]

]]> By: Bob http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-31313 Bob Sat, 04 Feb 2006 12:42:36 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-31313 <p>Its just been reported that 2005 was the biggest sales year in its history, and January 06 was its biggest sales month. Gee....what ever happened to the old adage "if it ain't broke...."</p> Its just been reported that 2005 was the biggest sales year in its history, and January 06 was its biggest sales month. Gee….what ever happened to the old adage “if it ain’t broke….”

]]> By: Gabe http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-2/#comment-30880 Gabe Thu, 26 Jan 2006 04:49:37 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-30880 <p>Adam - I wouldn't worry. The difference between the new 3-door MINI and the current one will be millimeters.</p> Adam – I wouldn’t worry. The difference between the new 3-door MINI and the current one will be millimeters.

]]> By: Adam Pruitt http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-30879 Adam Pruitt Thu, 26 Jan 2006 04:33:30 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-30879 <p>My fear is that BMW has fallen into that mindset of having to change the body style every few years or the product won't sell. Well, BMW, if you're reading, how long did the orignal MINI concept last? And did it continue to sell? Point made. Don't ruin this perfect car! I for one have no interest in a larger MINI. My '05 is exactly the way the MINI should be. We don't need or want a MAXI. Part of the charm and reason this car has sold so well is that it's different from the norm. Bigger isn't better. Don't abandon all of us who put the car on the map. You'll do us and yourselves no favors.</p> My fear is that BMW has fallen into that mindset of having to change the body style every few years or the product won’t sell. Well, BMW, if you’re reading, how long did the orignal MINI concept last? And did it continue to sell? Point made. Don’t ruin this perfect car! I for one have no interest in a larger MINI. My ‘05 is exactly the way the MINI should be. We don’t need or want a MAXI. Part of the charm and reason this car has sold so well is that it’s different from the norm. Bigger isn’t better. Don’t abandon all of us who put the car on the map. You’ll do us and yourselves no favors.

]]> By: sandm4130 http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-30456 sandm4130 Mon, 16 Jan 2006 22:48:05 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-30456 <p>I am happy that the 07 mini is not as distinct as the 06. bigger smoother faster yes. better? we will see. it normally takes a few years to properly set up a mass produced product as demonstrated by the current model. while i am sure that it is far from perfect (as their is no such thing) i feel that the 06 and possible earlier versions achieve a more identifiable persona than any other "BIG small car" out on the market. i have an 06 jcwmcs on order and i am really EXCITED about.</p> <p>anywho my past favorites was my 1976 2002 and now my current e34 525i both good cars. i hope that the mini will split the difference btwn these two gems.</p> <p>out!</p> I am happy that the 07 mini is not as distinct as the 06. bigger smoother faster yes. better? we will see. it normally takes a few years to properly set up a mass produced product as demonstrated by the current model. while i am sure that it is far from perfect (as their is no such thing) i feel that the 06 and possible earlier versions achieve a more identifiable persona than any other “BIG small car” out on the market. i have an 06 jcwmcs on order and i am really EXCITED about.

anywho my past favorites was my 1976 2002 and now my current e34 525i both good cars. i hope that the mini will split the difference btwn these two gems.

out!

]]> By: Chris Reddy http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-29951 Chris Reddy Thu, 05 Jan 2006 14:32:48 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-29951 <p>I am close to placing an order for a MC (06 model) and felt a bit put off that it would be superceded in a year. The comments here have been useful. I am going ahead and ordering the 06 E 50. I owned two older versions of the mini and loved every minute of the driving. I think its time for me to get the grwon up version of the mini and not the middle aged "wider and bigger" version with smoother, softer options. Sounds bloated and boring like the new Golf.</p> <p>Thanks for the useful comments</p> <p>Chris South Africa</p> I am close to placing an order for a MC (06 model) and felt a bit put off that it would be superceded in a year. The comments here have been useful. I am going ahead and ordering the 06 E 50. I owned two older versions of the mini and loved every minute of the driving. I think its time for me to get the grwon up version of the mini and not the middle aged “wider and bigger” version with smoother, softer options. Sounds bloated and boring like the new Golf.

Thanks for the useful comments

Chris South Africa

]]> By: MotoringFile » Archive » Three Colors to be Discontinued in 2006 http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-29131 MotoringFile » Archive » Three Colors to be Discontinued in 2006 Wed, 14 Dec 2005 13:49:14 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-29131 <p>[...] As the MINI Plant in Oxford gets ready to switch over to production of the new MINI later next year, expect availability of some options to change. Specifically we’ve learned that Black Eye Purple, Liquid Yellow and Solar Red will be discontinued from April production onward. We should see a few other changes later in the year as well. [...]</p> [...] As the MINI Plant in Oxford gets ready to switch over to production of the new MINI later next year, expect availability of some options to change. Specifically we’ve learned that Black Eye Purple, Liquid Yellow and Solar Red will be discontinued from April production onward. We should see a few other changes later in the year as well. [...]

]]> By: MotoringFile » Archive » New 2007 MINI Spyshots http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-29065 MotoringFile » Archive » New 2007 MINI Spyshots Tue, 13 Dec 2005 16:16:59 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-29065 <p>[...] It looks like the floodgates are starting to open and Edmonds.com is first in line with spyshots of those recently built 2007 MINI product mules. Here’s an excerpt from today’s edition: [...]</p> [...] It looks like the floodgates are starting to open and Edmonds.com is first in line with spyshots of those recently built 2007 MINI product mules. Here’s an excerpt from today’s edition: [...]

]]> By: MotoringFile » Archive » The Next Generation Engine Gets Closer http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28816 MotoringFile » Archive » The Next Generation Engine Gets Closer Mon, 05 Dec 2005 14:31:39 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28816 <p>[...] Recently on MotoringFile we heard the first reports of what it’s like to drive the next generation MINI.  This week let’s take a look at the new engine that will be introduced in the 2007 MINI. However, before we talk about the MINI’s next generation engine and how it relates to the new PSA small car offerings, let’s have a general recap on the engine.   [...]</p> [...] Recently on MotoringFile we heard the first reports of what it’s like to drive the next generation MINI.  This week let’s take a look at the new engine that will be introduced in the 2007 MINI. However, before we talk about the MINI’s next generation engine and how it relates to the new PSA small car offerings, let’s have a general recap on the engine.   [...]

]]> By: George http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28468 George Fri, 25 Nov 2005 23:24:28 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28468 <p>I agree Bruce. Why make such a well proportioned car follow the size direction of other cars in its class? Wouldn't it make more sense to keep it small and tight, and thereby really stand out from the crowd? Or, BMW (MINI?), do you somehow think that we are buying the MINI (or NOT buying the MINI) for space and comfort??? How have you lost the plot so bad so soon with this beautiful baby? I fear the team responsible now for the new design and packaging are clueless as to how to follow up this first new icon of the 21st century.</p> I agree Bruce. Why make such a well proportioned car follow the size direction of other cars in its class? Wouldn’t it make more sense to keep it small and tight, and thereby really stand out from the crowd? Or, BMW (MINI?), do you somehow think that we are buying the MINI (or NOT buying the MINI) for space and comfort??? How have you lost the plot so bad so soon with this beautiful baby? I fear the team responsible now for the new design and packaging are clueless as to how to follow up this first new icon of the 21st century.

]]> By: Bruce http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28459 Bruce Fri, 25 Nov 2005 13:41:05 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28459 <blockquote>Sounds like the “test driver” was underwhelmed. Smoother, quieter, bigger, blah, blah, blah. The inevitable slouch towards the mainstream begins…</blockquote> <p>I hadn't thought of it that way. But you may be right. Is the <em>Golf-ification</em> of the MINI underway? Bigger? Bloated? Flabby? Boring?</p> <p><em>(I'll avoid mentioning the Cooper S getting softer suspension settings and an automatic transmission in just its first run!)</em></p> <p>.</p> Sounds like the “test driver” was underwhelmed. Smoother, quieter, bigger, blah, blah, blah. The inevitable slouch towards the mainstream begins…

I hadn’t thought of it that way. But you may be right. Is the Golf-ification of the MINI underway? Bigger? Bloated? Flabby? Boring?

(I’ll avoid mentioning the Cooper S getting softer suspension settings and an automatic transmission in just its first run!)

.

]]> By: Bill http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28458 Bill Fri, 25 Nov 2005 04:49:53 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28458 <p>The tag R56 refers to all '07 -> models. The CooperS will be labeled the 55 and the Cabrio the 57. Either way, the "new" Cooper and CooperS (56/55) will be built along side the current production models for at least a whole year. Purely to FINALLY build all of the outstanding orders. Once the new Mini is in full production and all outstanding orders are completed, chaos will hit plant Oxford YET AGAIN as we gear up for production start of the R57 Cabrio. There is a relatively small group of trusted individuals at Plant Oxford called "Launch Champions" these are the guys that are involved heavily with the 56 and everything that comes along with it, the rest of us just do as they ask!</p> The tag R56 refers to all ‘07 -> models. The CooperS will be labeled the 55 and the Cabrio the 57. Either way, the “new” Cooper and CooperS (56/55) will be built along side the current production models for at least a whole year. Purely to FINALLY build all of the outstanding orders. Once the new Mini is in full production and all outstanding orders are completed, chaos will hit plant Oxford YET AGAIN as we gear up for production start of the R57 Cabrio. There is a relatively small group of trusted individuals at Plant Oxford called “Launch Champions” these are the guys that are involved heavily with the 56 and everything that comes along with it, the rest of us just do as they ask!

]]> By: MINI VANILLI http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28454 MINI VANILLI Fri, 25 Nov 2005 03:02:35 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28454 <p>I dont know about you guys...but some of my favorite things about the current MINI engine is its lack of smoothness and that its not quiet. i dont want some luxury car smooth quiet engine. i want our scrappy, noisy, grunty current engines, it adds so much to the driving experience.</p> <p>im not liking this. the car looks ok but im really worried about the engine change.</p> I dont know about you guys…but some of my favorite things about the current MINI engine is its lack of smoothness and that its not quiet. i dont want some luxury car smooth quiet engine. i want our scrappy, noisy, grunty current engines, it adds so much to the driving experience.

im not liking this. the car looks ok but im really worried about the engine change.

]]> By: cinque http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28449 cinque Fri, 25 Nov 2005 01:31:57 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28449 <p>Sounds like the "test driver" was underwhelmed. Smoother, quieter, bigger, blah, blah, blah. The inevitable slouch towards the mainstream begins...</p> Sounds like the “test driver” was underwhelmed. Smoother, quieter, bigger, blah, blah, blah. The inevitable slouch towards the mainstream begins…

]]> By: modboi http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28439 modboi Thu, 24 Nov 2005 18:26:34 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28439 <p>One thing's for sure, regardless of the changes, I'll be purchasing a '10 MCS once my '05 MCS is paid off. I have a feeling that most of you will be heading that same direction.</p> One thing’s for sure, regardless of the changes, I’ll be purchasing a ‘10 MCS once my ‘05 MCS is paid off. I have a feeling that most of you will be heading that same direction.

]]> By: Gabe http://www.motoringfile.com/2005/11/23/behind-the-wheel-of-the-2007-mini/comment-page-1/#comment-28428 Gabe Thu, 24 Nov 2005 15:00:50 +0000 http://motoringfile.com/?p=4490#comment-28428 <p>Just to clear up some of the size confusion. From what has been reported previously, the differences will be measured mostly in millimeters. And from what I've heard many of those changes were precipitated by new European pedestrian crash regulations.</p> Just to clear up some of the size confusion. From what has been reported previously, the differences will be measured mostly in millimeters. And from what I’ve heard many of those changes were precipitated by new European pedestrian crash regulations.

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