Starting what will be the first of many upcoming US spec R56 reviews.
>The Bottom Line: Like its original BMC predecessor and the BMW reincarnation, this new Mini has phenomenal power for its size, go-kart handling, and surprising comfort. However, it is also quirky (try to tune the radio) and has one of the most poorly designed interiors I have ever seen.
You might tell the reviewer isn’t a huge fan of the interior. But first, what he does like.
>For one, no matter which variation you choose, you will have serious problems keeping it below the speed limit. We drove on highways with speed limits as 65 mph, and still had trouble keeping the car below 80. Cruise control is a definite asset. Likewise, on more winding roads, the excellent handling of the Mini almost encourages breaking the law. It’s easier to behave in town, but the driver still must keep on his or her toes.
About the interior.
>I understand that true Mini cognoscenti love the quirkiness of the i.p., much in the same way Saab owners like their transmission-mounted ignition switches, but this is ridiculous. Maybe I’m complaining too much, but I feel the dash layout is horrible.
[ 2007 MINI Cooper S Review ] Theautochannel.com
While this made me smile,
<blockquote>There are more than 150 TRILLION different combinations of Mini, what with the colors engines, sport packages, and other options. Unfortunately, all of them include the dash.</blockquote>
describing the toggle switches as inane only shows that the MINI is not for everyone.
I was able to get a top secret sneak peek at the R56 today and was able to all but drive it. I guess I would just say that Gabe did a very good job describing it all, and although I have been a vocal critic of the center stack, it really does come across a lot better in person than it does in pictures.
Noticed one thing, Gabe, the automatic drop down of the window when you open and close the door against the seal seemed to be gone, is that the case, or was the car I tried out just not working correctly?
Two other things – lounge leather is all that Gabe describes and more, really soft.
The panel gap around the bonnet has not been improved for production cars.
I have always had serious reservations regarding the interior design both from an ergonomic and aesthetic perspective.
I think the designers may have sought to give the BMC MINI “reincarnate” a distinctive appearance but ended up with an overwrought example of overkill. Granted the curvilinear theme may be “distinctive” resplendent with orbs-a-plenty but it all condenses into a very busy agglomeration of disparate and essentially superfluous elements that create an unnecessry sense of overwhelming chaos.
“Design for design’s sake” inevitably comes across as vacant — and, in the final analysis, MINI’s interior is no exception. A more understated, refined and stylish treatment would have worked far better given the performance-inspired heritage of the marque. Conversely,if this were the VW Bug “reincarnate” a kitschy themed “Lovebug” look would have been quite appropriate, but in the MINI it clearly is not. This is particularly peculiar vis-a-vis the BMW DNA that spawned its rebirth. A “form follows function” motif would have been far more congruent and easier to live with for many of us. The MINI is not a 4-Wheeled Xbox. It is a fun to drive performance vehicle and should look therefore “grow-up” and look the part much more convincingly.
Bud,
Very nicely-written opinion, but when all is said and done, it is just that: an opinion. Except for perhaps a situation where things don’t “fit” (and I am aware of the criticism of the LARGE SPEEDO and confusing placement of the radio knobs), I’d say the “look” is going to feel right for some, and not for others. I happen to love the quirk of it. That’s one of the reasons I’ll be driving one very soon.
Ed. in L.A.
WE ALL KNOW HIS WIFE IS ASKING FOR A NEW MINI.
You are absolutely correct Ed in L.A. — it is just an opinion and that is exactly what is intended to be — nothing more, nothing less. Perhaps it should also be pointed out to you that all the comments appearing in this section are also “just opinions.” That is the primary purpose of having a forum. I do appreciate your kudo nonetheless and by all means enjoy your preference. That’s why they make Guiness and Miller Lite!
Make mine a sport-tuned MINI D with dry sump lubrication, HR suspension, camber plates, Ti exhaust system, Getrag AWD, Hamman Anniversary 18s, alloy gas cap, Italvolanti steeering wheel, and a fine set of Sparcos or Recaros and I’d be one happy motorer … i.e., after the interior was completely gutted and rebuilt by Walter Gropius.
The mantra goes something like this: Deeeee, Deeeee, Deeeee … if we all meditate in unison something magical may happen (: