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I love the attention to detail, the fine leather uphostery, the sound of the engine especially between 4-5000 RPM, the exhaust burble when shifting under hard power or letting off the accelerator, the AWD, the Turbo response, and the transmission. I also like the fact that I've never seen another one like mine on the road.
Sumptuous curves, a Bulldog face, the attention to detail on the exterior mirrors (Red on top, checkerboard on bottom half), an interesting green that looks black at times, the contrasting red stripes/highlights, red brake calipers behind piano-black wheels, and good visibility make this my favorite car I've ever owned.
More practical than the smaller Mini's, it is still not for everyone. If you have multiple kids in car seats, that back seat is going to be cramped, and there isn't a plethora of room in the cargo area. I can fit my golf clubs and a pull cart back there, but, that's about it!
I like sitting higher than most sporty cars, and the fine leather and seat adjustments are great for me, especially like the lumbar support. The lighting details inside are great and color-adjustable. The external light projector for puddle-lights is changeable. The headlights are great, and the auto-turning side lighting is great. Harmon-Kardon Stereo is the best I've had in a car, but, I've never been one to add aftermarket stereo equipment. The glass roof is very nice, with the front being moveable.
I put my mountain bike on top, and use a step-stool to reach it easier. While the top of the handlebar is 9 feet off the pavement, I still like transporting it up there instead of being part of a very expensive back bumper.
Quirky, fun, practical enough for what I need, and a blast to zip around corners and empty parking lots when I'm arriving early to work, make this my favorite car. For a reference, I've had several Saab 900 Turbos, a Saab 9-5 Aero, Mazda RX-8, Mazda Miata R-spec (the best handling car I've ever owned), Audi A4 1.8 T, and an A6 Twin turbo, Saab 9-3 Wagon (The "Saabaroo"), and VW Jetta with the 2.8 narrow V6 as well as one with the 1.8 Turbo that I bumped up to 200 HP. Also had Forester, Legacy, and a Highlander SE. They all have their place, but, this Mini is my favorite so far.
I'm even considering getting the 300 + HP version....but, I don't need it. I barely have enough opportunity to use the 228 HP my current one has. I bought it used with less than 1300 miles on it. Currently have over 7000 miles on it, it's been great, and for the price I paid, I couldn't be happier.
