Hi
There was a major problem with the automatic transmission system and there was a large class action law suit which was settle last year. Every driver of the Mini Cooper got up to $9,000 to cover the cost of repairs. Since the problem was detected, BMW have been working to improve the overall safety and reliability of their car. As an example of the improvement, here's a description of the work to raise the height of the
http://www.safecar.info/the-new-mini...bumper-height/. At present, the car is doing well in the NHTSA and IIHS ratings, it's fuel efficient, and does not depreciate too fast.
Best wishes
