MF Exclusive: MINI’s Mid Life-Cycle Refresh

Ian F Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I suppose we can’t hope for an interior refreshing? Drat…

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VMMVMMM Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

The center stack is what is keeping me from upgrading from my 2005. I know that is a very small thing, but I really don’t like the look of it at all, and really love how my current car looks.

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c4 Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Here is what I would like to see addressed in the next facelift:

1) Fix the headlights. Reposition them facing straight ahead (Like in the R53), not to the sides. Loose the dumb “fish” look… 2) Offer either a body colored or chrome grille as an option in the Cooper S models. 3) Fix the back of the R56. Loose the thick tailights and the less than visually appealing bumper covers of the MC and MCS models. 4)Bring back the full rear quarter wrap around glass. loose that cheap black plastic cover over the C-pillar. 5) As echoed by many others, the dashboard needs to be reworked…. Re-size the speedo, fix the center console and fix the factory stereos… so far the weakest links of the 2nd gen cars. Loose the “trying to hard to impress and be cool” interior decor. Go back to the ” simply functional design” philosphy of the previous car. You guys are designers, not interior decorators! 6) Fix the ultra expensive factory NAV system. If you need a reference point, go and spend sometime playing with the factory NAV of a Lexus, Honda or Infiniti (Nissan). 7) Give MCS buyers one other no cost option for the interior dashboard trim (In the previous car, MCS buyers could choose from silver, alloy patina and anthracite…..and there for a time in early 2005, body colored dash trim was a no cost option as well). 8) Bring back height adjusters for the front seat belts. 9) Fix the quality of the factory radios. If I pay $500 for the so called “HI-FI” it better deliver. 10) Give the MC and MCS a slight bump in HP and torque. Make the cars more competitive. 11) Fix the ever present torque steer in the R56 S. 12) lower the stock suspension height ride. Loose the SUVish looks. 13) Bring back the exhaust burble for the MCS. If someone does not want it, give the customer the option to turn it off via software update and/or other control methods. 14) The stock wheel choices are not that great. 15) Address reported issues with high bonnet temperatures (and footwell) in the MCS.

And please bring back the magic to the MINI lineup!

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c4 Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Oh and very important on a turbocharged car…… Please bring back a proper water temperature gauge, not an idiot light.

Also….

Bring back the option of a chrono package for additional gauges (Oil pressure, water temp, fuel gauge, etc).

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AN Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

New colors?

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JS Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

c4 sums it up pretty well. Last week my ‘05 MCS was in the shop for routine maintenance. I was given a R56 Cooper with an automatic transmission as a loaner. Based upon that experience as well as the R56 MCS drive I had earlier in the year…..the New MINI just doesn’t get it! I wouldn’t buy one!!!! MINI really ruined a wonderful car. IF…..they had kept the car closer to the original form and spirit……I’d have a new car on order. When it was time to pick up my car…..it was a wonderful reunion….and I couldn’t help but admire my car as it was pulled up for me to drive away!!! The new one is now just a cheap box! Sorry MINI…

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Callahan Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I woulsd be very suprised to see any major changes to the center stack or factory Nav system. These are costly changes to design and make. I agree that the most that will change from an interior perspective is upgrading the material used [hopefully the button and trim plastic on the center stack] and some minor changes to the exterrior. I do not think there will be any major changes to the current design until 2012/2013 model year when the car is completely revamped [ala R53 to R56]. I am in line right now to get a 2009, not because of waiting for changes, but waiting to pay off my wife’s Mustang GT. Unless there is a major model revision, it does not make sense to wait for the next model year because each model year is going to be slightly better than the previous one.

Perhaps the only thing that would asteer me away from a MINI is the new Camaro due in 2009. If GM has done as good of a job with it as they did with the new Malibu, they will have a definate winner on their hands

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dickdavid Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I guess I can still wish for a center stack redesign. Oh well.

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Jon Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

It should be interesting to see what they come up with for a mid cycle refresh. Several points on the car that could be addressed though I would be happy if they addressed the front lights, and interior (center stack) and upgraded the material quality of the plastic interior pieces.

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Callahan Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Gabe,

What do you think of the Nav sytem in your R56? I am on the fence between the factory Nav and Garmin unit [which would free up some room for some additional toys in my MINI budget] The MA at Cincinnati MINI recommeds the Garmin unit but i am suspicious that he is just trying to sell more delaer added accessories.

Any chance for an official “Gabe Review” of the factory Nav?

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Mike Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

The biggest things I’d like upgraded are the following:

Most Manf today are offering Sirius or XM standard in their car. If MINI doesn’t want to do that that’s fine but make it $500 and let me worry about the subscription. Many folks have a subscription already and I’d rather not have it tied to the VIN of my car. Also I’m not a fan of the Hi-Fi system, leaves a lot to be desired for a supposedly upgraded system.

The black plastic behind the center stack is dreadful looking. It’s the one piece of the interior I feel is cheap looking.

Those are my two realistic changes I’d like to see MINI change.
Mike

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Gabe Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

New colors?

You won’t have to wait until 2010.

What do you think of the Nav sytem in your R56? I am on the fence between the factory Nav and Garmin unit [which would free up some room for some additional toys in my MINI budget] The MA at Cincinnati MINI recommeds the Garmin unit but i am suspicious that he is just trying to sell more delaer added accessories. Any chance for an official “Gabe Review” of the factory Nav?

I meant to but I just haven’t had time. In general I think the Navigation is a big improvement over the previous version. However I think there is a lot of room for improvement in both the UI and in the speed of the device itself (and don’t get me started on the love hate relationship I have with the iPod adapter).

The screen on my Garmin 660 is much nicer than the one in the MINI (albeit smaller). I also prefer the simplicity of the interface of the Garmin. In truth I think the MINI (and BMW navigation system) is at least one generation away from being at the level an iPhone user would expect. Of course using that criteria, I don’t think the Garmin is quite there either.

That said, one thing that is head and shoulders above the Garmin is traffic data. It’s proven to be very accurate and a God-send in Chicago traffic.

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mike Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

C4, I agree with a lot of your points. However, it seems to me that they have positioned the MINI to almost NEED to be upgraded for some – especially those who are buying their 2nd or 3rd MINI like me..

Take the body kits for example. In my opinion, a lot of the perceived design flaws of the R56 are remedied by the JCW aero kit. Sure, you could get the factory installed Aero Kit but some would end up getting their arches painted. Boom, you might as well get the JCW kit now that you are spending that money.

The center stack looks infinitely better (IMO) with the addition of the $2100 Nav regardless of how it performs. I would have never gotten the Nav in my R50. I love the center speedo and dislike the double gauges on the steering column.

Ride quality has been softened. However, for those who prefer more feel, the Sports Suspension and the JCW Suspension are options.

For those who are sensitive to issues such as these, you can remedy it with a pile of cash (or credit :).

I would be interested to see how many Aero and Suspension kits have been sold to 07 buyers vs. 06.

Strategically this is smart. For those of us who drove the 1st Gen and prefer the ride, you can get close to it through the upgrades while keeping the car more affordable stock for first time buyers of those that weren’t completely sold on the 1st Gen. Case in point; my 02 MC was significantly less expensive than my 07 MCS.

Overall, I think BMW has done a good job for themselves by widening the appeal of the car to the masses and good for the business. Whether individual MINI owners see this as a good thing or bad is a whole other story.

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Crusoe Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Hmm well I was hoping they’d squeeze the refresh in before the 50th anniversary and release a special edition which would be ‘09. I can’t imagine they’ll pass up cashing in on 50 years of Mini heritage. Maybe the anniversary model will debut the facelift. Only the headlights, center stack and wheel arches bother me. They could make the speedo smaller IF when ordering Nav you get a double gauge cluster on the steering column. C-Pillar wrap won’t change because of $$$.

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James Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I just want a new version of the Cockpit Chrono package!!

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gokartride Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I suspect any who are hoping the redesign will go back to an earlier “look” will be disappointed. For example, I’ve grown quite used to the R56 center stack both for it’s added function and for the additional leg room it offers. In light of this, I really prefer it. That’s the thing…many of the design tweaks actually offer some real (although often small) benefit/function and in the end, I think parting w/that benefit would be a big step backwards. To me the current MINI is a big bundle of little tweaks that really add up to big pluses, but they’re small enough to miss unless you actually drive one every day. Anyway, things are always changing and so I look forward to the next batch of tweaks, having been pleasantly surprised and delighted with what has evolved thus far.

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Pete Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I’d be happy with just getting rid of that ridiculous radio-in-the-speedo! And a low-boost turbo for the Cooper, kind of a mid-range model!

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Brian Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I own a 2003 CR MCS. I have to say, with regular maintenance the car still looks and runs like new. People cant believe its almost 5 years old. So in that regard, I have to commend MINI.

However for me, the new look is harder to like in its stock form. However, with the JCW Aero kit I think it looks terrific. The car actually looks chunkier than the R53 and gives the impression of being quite larger than the R53 when in reality it’s just barely.

If i could redesign something it would be the “fishy” headlights.

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Mark Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

How about adding the fuel saving measures introduced in Europe to North America for the model refresh. Any word yet Gabe about when to expect these features on this side of the pond?

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eager2own Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I also thought they’d squeeze it in before the 2009 models.

The refresh for the R53 came in time to incorporate into the R52. It’s weird that the R57 is coming out and being “refreshed” within a year. . . i would’ve expected the refresh to coincide with the coming of the R57.

Gabe – can’t wait to hear more about new colors before 2010, you tease.

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Ken Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I wouldn’t change a thing with the new R56. I love it, especially the new large dinner plate speedo and radio control functions. Functionality of the new radio and climate controls works slick and is much nicer looking that the previous model.

I’ve equipped my MINI Cooper S with the optional interior chrome which adds a whole new look over the gray, plus I’ve also added the brushed aluminum dash and door trim with the white under dash and door rests which gives the interior a very nice rich contrasting look with the the black/white leather lounge seats. Very upscale BMW look in you know how to dress your MINI.

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Aaron Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I may be the only poster who would like to see the Chrono-Pack option (moving a small speedo next to the tach behind the steering wheel) brought back for the dash on the R56s. I have it on my 2006 MCSa and I prefer it to the central speedo. And where’s the athracite dash option gone? Also, I love the SB/S color option for the 2006 model year. I don’t know why they didn’t keep silver as a roof/mirror color option and I hope they will bring it back. I have only seen photos of the R56 central stack, and it looks pretty revolting to me, but I have also heard that it’s not so bad in person, so will reserve judgment on that. The rear bumper and tail light configuration on the R56 needs some re-working. I love the R50/R53 body design. I did not think it needed to look more “aggressive”. The re-design just makes it look cheesy and cheap to me.

One thing for sure: PLEASE GET RID OF THE FAKE SCOOP ON THE MCS. Nothing I hate more than useless design elements that feign functionality. There’s a reason for the hood scoop on the R50/R53s. It’s a lie on the R56s. I hope they remove it, or make it an option.

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GregW Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

There’s an old saying – “If it ain’t broke – don’t fix it”. Why is BMW continually fiddling with the car? BMWs have a 7 year model life. Then they make the next model bigger. Frank Stephenson’s original design was the best – bring back the R50. The R56 looks like it has put on weight. There is no need to give MINI and extreme make-over.

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Bumblebee Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Bring back Mellow Yellow, especially for the Clubman.

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Bumblebee Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Bring back Liquid Yellow, especially for the Clubman.

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lavardera Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I’m contrary to most of what’s posted here.

Center stack design is fine with me. If they want to play with the material texture, or the shapes of the “pods” I’m guessing that would be fairly easy to do. I definitely would hate to see it go back to a series of rectangular panels with dials and buttons – egads, who likes this? That’s what my 1993 Acura had – its this really what people want? Geez, buy a used car..

Radio – interface has disappeared for me – I had to learn it when it was new, and it’s no iPod, that’s for sure, but its also no issue. I’ve watched my daughter master it in a short time. That convinced me there was no issue even though it was not obvious from the start.

HVAC controls – love them, simplest, easiest hvac to use in any car I’ve ever had, loath to twist a knob ever again when I can adjust these effortlessly with a finger tip.

What do I hate?

Nav in speedo. I actually think the R50/53 solution was better, option of a chrono group too. Nav graphics look lame to me too. I’d never in a million years get this on my car – waste of money in my mind. Segue to:

No damn good place to mount a third party NAV – I image that Nuvi mount that Mini offers is probably the best solution especially since it gives power as well, but alas, thats not my brand. Why? Mine cost 1/4 and works just fine.

JCW body kit – sorry, I think it stinks. The funny vents on the back look too tunerish for me – maybe if they actually extracted air from the wheel wells…, the side skirts all but eliminate the black band which connects the front and rear black wheel trim – vents do nothing for me either, front kit to much big flat surface with nothing going on. Stock MCS kit is my favorite – nice aggressive lower grill reminds me of an old british sports car. Best look is in black because you can barely see it all. I forgive phony vents on the stock kit, JCW I don’t. Simplify the empty styling moves, emphasize the downforce and functions and I’m on board.

Wheels – silly designs. Man, I don’t get this when BMW offers a slew of great wheel designs on their cars, on the mini they have to play cutesy design games with their spokes. I guess I feel the way about their wheels the way many of you feel about the dash. Bridge spokes are the only wheels simple enough worth getting, anything bigger and better looking, there is a better value aftermarket. They need cool wheels in smaller sizes.

Same with lower suspension. R56 handles better and rides better – lower suspension is an aesthetic choice better left for the aftermarket. Some may like it, makes me feel like an old man wearing a baseball cap backwards and wearing pants sliding down my butt. I don’t want to look like a punk in a tuner car. Real performance, thank you. Tuner aesthetic, no thanks.

The idea of changes that rewind to R53 – forget it, never happen, never want it to happen. R56 generation stands on its own, no need to pedal backwards, thank you very much.

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Chad Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I think the center stack would be improved by using different materials/colors. They don’t have to redesign it for my taste. Maybe have it match the color line/dash material options? I love what Volvo has done with the customized console materials.

Having some options for the MCS grille would be nice too. I don’t really like the black, and would prefer chrome/body color. Not a huge deal, but it seems like something easy to change.

Oh, and Silk Green paint would be nice.

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c4 Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Lavardera, you are one of a kind.

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c4 Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Why are my posts all of a sudden going AGAIN into the moderation queue??

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Andy Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Can’t stand the the center stack and radio. It is keeping me from replacing my 02 S with a new S. KISS applies to design as well and obviously Mini didn’t pay attention to this when the designed the current interior. Too bad, because I was ready to buy one…

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driverphil Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I agree with Chad – bring back Silk Green

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MeanMrMstrd Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

The scoop is fine! Men have nipples should we rip them off?

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Hai Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I agree with c4 especially about the center stack and the retarded “fish” look of the headlights. The design of the R53 trumps the R56 in every single way. I really want another MINI but it looks like I’m gonna have to find other options.

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Larry T. Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Wah-wah-wah! The R56 is perfect! Maybe add more grill choices to the S, but dont change anything else! Cant wait for JCW factory and the Clubman. Go for training Feb. 11th – 13th in Vegas for the Clubman! Cant wait!

If they bring a new (not an old color back…) color, what should it be? Maybe start a new post on “This is the color we want, MINI!”

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cze33r Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I too agree with bringing back silk green …. and also a Pepper White/Almond Green combo, like the 1 millionth MINI.

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c4 Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

I hope the MINI design team is reading these posts and is actively taking notes of all those items that need to be reviewed either on the next R56 facelift or the 3rd gen MINI.

Please do not discard these comments as negative diatribe. The greatest disservice a successful company can do to themselves is to never listen to their customers.

I see much constructive criticism of the R56 here and hopefully all of this feedback can result in a much better MINI in years to come.

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Robert Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

Lavardera is not alone.

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lavardera Jan 3rd, 2008 Link

This is a topic we could all go on for hours – I love to look closely at the design of the cars. Looking back at what I wrote in all fairness I think the new 17″ clubman wheels are great – I’d like to see more like that. Also I don’t love the MCS rear bumper design on the R56, the R53 design is nicer.

Hey Frank(c4) – I’m going to try to be real positive because I’m not trying to be a “tough” guy whatever you think that means. I think you really restrained yourself with your list above compared to exhaustive lists you have posted before. I think you have a lot of sensible things on your list and I appreciate your self restraint because I know you could have said more, and in a less kind way. I’m surprised you are going for a clubman given it includes so many details you don’t like, rather than waiting to see if any of your hopes pan out. Your also jumping in for a first model year – something you felt was too risky before.

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G Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Personally, the chrome trim on the Cooper S grill drives me nuts. It’d be nice to have it in black to match the inset mesh (like the M7 Ultimate Grill).

-G

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Eelke Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Sad to hear they’re unlikely to do any work on the center stack. I do agree with mike, who said that it seems some choices have been made in favour of expensive upgrades looking good vs. the standard equipment looking good. The centre speedo has become ridiculously big; it’s now a caricature of a caricature – the R50 one already was cartoonish when compared to the classic Mini’s centre speedo, but I got used to that and started to like it. The R56 one is a step too far, IMHO. And I do believe it’s not because the design team thought the huge standard speedo looks good, but because it needed to be able to house both a nav screen and the speedo ring around that, which does look better than the setup in the old car (the nav option has done a 180; it changed from something that makes the look of the interior worse to something that improves it). However, I did read a review last week (AutoVisie, for you Dutch readers) that said they didn’t like the readout of the speedo that comes with the nav.

A little longer ago, I did read a great suggestion for “fixing” the centre speedo (it was in MC2, a US Mini magazine you probably know); give the Mini the nav-screen from the BMW 1-series, that flips up from the top of the dash, allowing all Mini’s to have the same, smaller centre speedo (I vote for the R50 design, I like it miles better than the R56 one, with proper gauges for fuel and temp). That would probably increase cost too much, though. And, on a cynical node, it would largely remove the esthetical “need” to upgrade to the 2500 dollar nav system (that’s just really, sad, though, a 2500 dollar option that is supposed to be about functionality, is being considered by many because it makes the interior look better…). From a commercial viewpoint, it’s just unlikely to happen. Shame the marketing department always gets the better of designers. Maybe (yeah, right..) this will change the minds of the marketeers: the pizzaplate centre speedo, leds instead of proper gauges and the ghastly radio controls in the no-nav setup of the R56 will play a major role in my choice whether my next car will be a Mini again. There, I’ve said it, it may be weird, but it’s true. When I’m due for another car, there will be other small, fun cars around, and it will be relatively small stuff like this that can make or break the deal.

Another change I’d like (and which luckily does not involve going against marketing tactics) is for the front indicators and running lights to switch places. On the R50, the position of the front indicators was a lovely reference to the classic Mini. For the R56, the design team seems to have decided that the separate running lights of the R50 (which moved from the main headlights on the classic Mini to share the same cluster as the indicators on the R50) are more “signature” to the Mini than the position of the indicators. Which I very much disagree with; the indicators have been in that position since 1959, the running lights only since 2001. Also, I believe that with the indicators being in the headlights, it’s more difficult to notice them being on, so it’s less safe as well. Please move the indicators back where they belong.

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rkw Jan 4th, 2008 Link

G – why don’t you just get the JCW black grill trim, like HERE.

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Chad Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Looking over wheel choices for the Cooper, and yeah, they do seem a little boring. New wheels are easy to add. And those smoked headlamps from the 1 millionth would be a nice option.

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MeanMrMstrd Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Wow, a lot of really good comments and suggestions with a few dumbass posts here and there. Nice work MotorFile-attics.

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Bilbo Baggins Jan 4th, 2008 Link

One of the main reasons for my trading my ‘02 MCS for an ‘06 MCS was that I was unhappy with the R56. I figure that BMW/MINI have a few more years to make changes that I like before I am ready for a new car. Let’s just hope that they do, because I really enjoy driving my MCS and do not really want to change brands. But it is in their hands.

I’d like to see a smaller speedo, like the R53. Revised center stack to fix the attrocious stereo control issues and poor material selection.

Even though the wheel arches are only about .5″ larger than the R53 ones they do look too large. I know they did this to keep the waistline from looking too high. And I can understand why they had to raise the waistline to comply with the new “Pedestrian Crash Safety Standards”. But I still think they need to tweak the exterior design a little.

The side view, the front and the rear all need some work.

Sorry to lose the whine of the supercharger but that ain’t coming back any time soon. To bad.

Wheel selection, I agree with the others. We need some better choices, especially some lighter choices. The last batch of wheels are all too heavy. Not a single decent light wheel in the bunch.

It is a shame about the suspension getting so soft and the throttle response and steering being dumbed down. It is the old “design for the lowest common denominator”. Don’t try to lift people up, just dumb down the product. Too bad. Not sure why the stiffer suspension should be more expensive as a factory installed option. They should be able to select the right piece on the assembly line with not additional expense. Certainly not $500. That has me a little frosted.

Wouldn’t mind seeing them offer a gear type LSD, from the factroy, instead of what we have now. Or both types and let us choose. Hey, I can wish, can’t I?

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2004MCS Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Someone (there’s always someone) who groans about the fake hood scoop on the R56… well, my beloved R53 has plenty fake ducts too… false lower grill on the front (I’ll give Stephenson credit for being creative, bulldog jaw and all, but looks awkward to me), JCW lower side panel scoops and especially the “mesh decal” found on the rear of the JCW kit (ughhh). At least the R56 has plastic in the rear instead of a sticker. I’ll definitely agree on the radio/speedo combo… although it looks “clean,” the buttons are too damn small and cluttered together… ah, well… I’ll be trading up for an R56 when the factory JCW debuts.

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greg Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Bring back flat black! I have some ambiguity about my AB. I would also be glad if they did something with the steering to bring back the “go cart” feel. I have JCW suspension which handles great but still lacks the connected to the road feel of the R53.

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Brian Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Bring Back Orange

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c4 Jan 4th, 2008 Link

No problem Lavardera. In fact whenever you wish to smoke the peace pipe, I am game.

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LTL M CPE Jan 4th, 2008 Link

I’m with those that would like a Center Stack change, and especially the radio buttons in the speedo look. To me the R50 speedo and stack was cleaner looking and more functionakl from a driver perspective. Having driven two new loaners I learned to really hate the new design and love getting my 02 MCS back.

I wonder if most of the folks that love the new stack/speedo are new MINI owners or had a R50/52 previously?

Jim

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greg Jan 4th, 2008 Link

Here’s my pet peeve with the “big” speedo. No problems with the “size” per say but the “content”. The R53 was busy with cool needle guages and MPH and KPH. Very retro and sporty. LOVED IT! Couldn’t take my eyes off it at night.

The R56 is empty and lacks all the charm of the last one even though it has plenty of room for MPH/KPH. Shouldn’t be a big deal to upgrade. Anyone listening over there at Mini?

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lavardera Jan 4th, 2008 Link

I like the retro feel of the R50/53 speedo – its very seductive, but at the same time it disturbs me that its phony. We all know the gauges are digitally activated and the temperature gauge does not objectively follow the temperature of the coolant like a real gauge. The R56 speedo is guilty of the same. This stuff bugs me – I don’t like when design is patronizingly retro and that’s how the old dash makes me feel. The R56 treatment feels more like a car designed in its own time – more real and less like a disney ride.

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Andy S. Jan 4th, 2008 Link

With a mid cycle refresh, there are only so many things any car maker can do, mostly due to cost constraints. For example, the sheet metal is almost never touched.

Knowing that, here is my wish list of reasonable improvements (most of which were already mentioned)

1) A better looking non-JCW aero kit 2) A few more reasonably priced 17″ wheel options 3) Make the grill color/style be an option 4) MCS fake hood scoop delete option 5) A chrono pack option. By shrinking the center speedometer to a more modest size (even slightly smaller than the R50/R53 size), there is plenty of space in that huge round portion of the center stack for a few more gauges. Functional and better looking.

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terrie Jan 5th, 2008 Link

I am dreaming of a Turquoise body color with a white roof and mirrors..very 50’s..and a hit on that peace pipe…

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pete Jan 6th, 2008 Link

bump up the displacement to 2.0 give it 200 horsepower.

actually let it compete with a gti and civic si

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O(=^=)OCapn Jan 7th, 2008 Link

bring back … the R53

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pocket_rocket Jan 9th, 2008 Link

I traded my 04S and have missed it ever since. Honestly, it is one of the worst decisions I have made regarding cars. I took it very hard the day of trade to say the least.

I promised myself another but ONLY when they get the center stack right. That gaping space with a knob in the middle looks TERRIBLE.

I hope they address this and if not then who knows when my next MINI will appear.

Cheers!

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pocket_rocket Jan 9th, 2008 Link

I traded my 04S and have missed it ever since. Honestly, it is one of the worst decisions I have made regarding cars. I took it very hard the day of trade to say the least.

I promised myself another but ONLY when they get the center stack right. That gaping space with a knob in the middle looks TERRIBLE.

I hope they address this and if not then who knows when my next MINI will appear.

Cheers!

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greg Jan 10th, 2008 Link

PR. Go find an ‘06 or a MCSC. I plan to order a new one in fall ‘08 as to stay in a R53 as long as possible.

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SpeedPedal Feb 10th, 2008 Link

Totally agree with those who dislike the center stack and radio controls. While the size of the new speedo is not objectionable per se, in all other respects it is overdone and poorly integrated. I would never consider giving up my ‘05 R53 for an R56 for this reason alone — a major design flaw that never should have gotten past R & D.

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knightowl71 Feb 26th, 2008 Link

pocket_rocket Jan 9th, 2008 Link I traded my 04S and have missed it ever since. Honestly, it is one of the worst decisions I have made regarding cars. I took it very hard the day of trade to say the least.

What did you trade your 04S for? I am thinking of trading my 03S but am having a hard time letting it go.

I definately do not want an R56.

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B Mar 2nd, 2008 Link

Really not clear why the regenerative brakes and auto start/stop are not yet available on the US cars! Gives 15/20% better fuel economy (compare US with Euro mileage). We know the US is land of the gas guzzler but this is really a little mindless since its standard everywhere else.

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Steve Swytak Mar 4th, 2008 Link

We need Chris Bangle design some sharp creases in the middle of the doors and side panels. O yeah!! Also, it needs to be maybe 2.5″ longer and an inch or two wider. Maybe 100 pounds heavier. Soften the shocks just a little please, so I don’t feel the botts dots and seams in the road. That is all I ask. Oh yeah, a little more leg and elbow room for rear passengers. A little more Camryesque.

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swr Mar 6th, 2008 Link

why can’t mini bring the british green and saddle combo. Saddle convertiable top with british green is beautiful.

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Luke Jul 6th, 2008 Link

I agree with “Ian F”, the sideward headlights of the R56 are a step backwards. I can’t get used to this dumb fish look! Unfortunately the headlights won’t change, that’s too much redesign for a facelift.

But I still hope the center stack design and radio WILL be redesigned. Yes, get back to the simple and functional design philosphy!

These two changes are reason enough for me to pass on a new R56 while my R53 still works fine – despite the nice new motors, increased comfort and other neat advances of the R56

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Phillip Jul 25th, 2008 Link

I don’t see a problem at all with the center stack. It is better than the older model which looks like the 90’s black plastic and all the old german buttons. I think the finish and materials are cheap and need to be upgraded but not anything else. Plus I like the new headlights better the lower hood and the headlights on the R53 looks like the first neon.

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Michael Berliner Aug 20th, 2008 Link

c4 and js sum up my feelings completely. The new MINI is a piece of @#$%, and I would not buy one in a million years. My ‘08 MCS convertible was recently in the shop for a week to get its top repaired. I was given an ‘08 MC as a loaner. It was a terrible car – I was so happy to get back into my ‘08 MCS convertible, and will not buy a new MINI – BMW have ruined an icon with their corporate budgets and designers. Yuk!

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Demon Sep 15th, 2008 Link

Everyone is entitled to their opinion….

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Sonny C. Sep 20th, 2008 Link

c4 is definitely right: darn fix those headlights !!! The straight lights of the R53 were so much nicer to look at than the “dumb fish” ones of the new Mini2. The grille of the new Mini2 is horrible, a chrome option for the Cooper S would be a huge step going forward. If you also resize the the speedo and fix the center console then I’m gonna buy a new MCS right away after lifecycle refresh. If you don’t I’ll just stay with my current MCS or look elsewhere for a neat little racer.

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R56 Facelift Information - MINI2 - MINI Forum Dec 30th, 2008 Link

[...] R56 Facelift Information Not sure if this has been posted already, but I saw this: MotoringFile Archive MF Exclusive: MINI’s Mid Life-Cycle Refresh [...]

Bernie Dec 30th, 2008 Link

I would like to see the roof raised by increasing the height of the windshield and all other windows.

It would make it easier for us taller drivers to see overhead signs, and make for better visibility allaround.

It would also be truer to the original Mini look and practicality. The current MINI has a much different ratio of glass to sheetmetal.

Not all that great, unless taking your styling cues from Toyota is the way to go. I hope they don’t try to mimic Toyota handling next.

How about offering a sunroof option that gives you a sliding solid sunblocker, instead of glass over the backseat. If you cared much about the backseat passengers, why not get the Clubman?

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Scott Dec 31st, 2008 Link

Bernie,

You need to get a LightInSight for your windshield. http://www.lightinsight.com/

I have the same problem as you in my MINI with seeing stop lights. The funny thing is I also have the same problem in my wife’s Tahoe.

-Scott

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JC Jan 11th, 2009 Link

Okay… seriously? the new mini’s are beyond UGLY. maybe the outside isn’t that bad, but the interior just looks plastic and feels plastic AND cheap. We have a 2006 MCS Parklane, which you can’t buy anymore, which sucks. Unfortunately we had a crash a few days ago, and we might need to get a new car. we looked at the new minis but they are very…. unappealing. Why can’t they just make the damn new one’s as nice as the older ones??? is that not the point of a new design? to make it better? Our mini had the european leather trim, with chrome around all features and double dials infront of the steering wheel.

sigh

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Brad Jan 15th, 2009 Link

You know I really dont know get what eveyone is complaining about when it comes to the R56 and its quality. I am very happy with it, the center stack, and the entire look of the car. Anyone who isnt- maybe a mini just isnt right for you?

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matt Mar 22nd, 2009 Link

We have an 07 MCS and an 04 MCS. I love the way the 04 looks – it is nearly flawless in style, proportion, relationship to the ground, etc. Inside is appropriately spartan. The 07: can not make the same statements about the exterior (17’s may help but this is the wife’s car) but I have come to accept the interior, particularly the improved seats. The spedo is annoyingly large but I am usually looking at the road. The major difference, and why I am trying to sell the 04 and adopt the 07 as my own, is the fuel efficiency and the torque / acceleration. Even without the sport button engaged the 07 leaves the 04 in the dust. It is totally quick and has punch from 65-85. We switched cars last week – verdict: the 04 drives like a go-tank, and I am trying to find a way to get over the exterior. The avg 35/mpg helps.

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MotoringFile » Archive » Is This The R56/R55 Facelift? Mar 26th, 2009 Link

[...] that MINI will be introducing the refreshed R56 and R55 either late this year or early next. And as we reported well over a year ago there will be some subtle changes to the front and rear facia, lighting and interior design. [...]

Kevin May 9th, 2009 Link

1)bring back a chrono gauge pack option( water,fuel,oil temp and oil pressure …or boost gauge for the turbo) 2)offer at least a boost gauge for the Cooper S as a stand alone option 3)Make the hood scoop a functional cold air system on the S 4)Reduce the size of the speedo and take the radio out of it. 5) How about different colors for the roof (vs. just black or white or monotone). What about BRG, SIlver, Burgundy, Chrome, blue…. 6)New body colors such as lime,orange,teal,copper,ruby,steel blue metallic,purple 7)Give me back my water temp gauge and add an oil pressure gauge as standard 8) What about some different colored —fabric— sport seats (Red? Blue? similar to Corbeau’s or Recaro’s) 9) how about some hood vents to vent the hot air from the engine. 10)side molding as an option 11)a “Bulldog” hard core ,no frills Cooper or Cooper S priced well below a JCW version. 12)A version with no chrome (flat black trim)

Whacha think people?

oops excuse me I am drooling.sorry.

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