High Owner Satisfaction Dispels Theory that Initial Quality is Most Important

Have you ever driving a MINI? Not the tiny classic made famous from appearances in the original Italian Job with Michael Caine to reruns of John Cleeses Faulty Towers, but the new one that puts a smile on all who drive it and passersby as well.

Now built by German premium automaker BMW, the new MINI has become synonymous with fun. Many in the automotive press consider it one of the most entertaining cars to drive no matter how much money is spent.

As it seems, the

Much like the original classic MINI, the new BMW built version has become synonymous with fun. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

What makes the

Ninety-three percent of MINI owners were "very or completely satisfied" with their purchase overall. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

What does this mean? While initial quality issues are important, its even more critical to build cars that

Despite what automotive journalists have been saying, customers praise the MINIs instrument layout and control visibility. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

AutoPacifics Vehicle Satisfaction Awards survey didnt only question owners about overall satisfaction, however, but rather queried them on a total of 44 different vehicular attributes. Of these, the MINI received top marks in image, braking, handling, fuel economy, price, operation costs, resale value, general value, and front seat roominess.

Say what? The MINI took top honors for front seat roominess? Actually, the little car offers superior headroom to many larger cars, and shoulder, hip and legroom is also exemplary.

Another

What makes the survey results even more impressive is the fact that the MINI is the lowest priced European car currently sold in North America. (Photo: Alexandra Straub, American Auto Press)

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