Had three examples of the R56 generation hatch. An 'S' and then two JCWs. Fantastic cars, only moved on from serial MINI buying when the school run crap exceeded the boot and rear seat capacity.
Fuel consumption is a pleasant surprise with 40mpg+ regularly possible (kids in the car, see) even on the so-called hot versions
What would I do differently?
NEVER get the gloss black roof - bird poo corrodes it instantly.
DON'T BOTHER with the pricey satnav. Garmin do a custom behind the wheel mount
TAKE OFF the runflats. The stiff sidewalls bend rims and cause slow deflation issues
DON'T HAVE KIDS - I wish I still had my MINI
