Get to know and love Used MINIs as much as we do

Posted 27th July 2022

MINI Used

We know that when it comes to purchasing a used MINI, whether that be an Approved Used MINI from an official MINI dealership or a second-hand MINI from a local garage, the specifications and packs can be confusing - but here at Dick Lovett MINI, we feel that it is important that future MINI owners understand the specification that they are purchasing - to avoid potential disappointment and a lower part exchange value if you have been mis-sold a specification or pack on your MINI.

There are hundreds of Used MINIs for sale in the marketplace, from franchised dealers to independent dealers and private sellers, but unless you’re MINI experts like us, not everyone understands MINI packs and specifications. 

Lots of people assume they are looking for a MINI Cooper, but there are many engine types to choose from. We have put together this myth-busting guide to help you understand MINI packs and specifications before you purchase.

2001 - 2018

When MINI launched in 2001, the models and specifications could be quite confusing, so we have tried our best to explain them here:

  1. You chose your model for example 3 Door Hatch, Clubman, Countryman
  2. Choose your engine type: One, One D, Cooper, Cooper S, Cooper SD, Cooper D
  3. Choose your pack: Salt, Pepper and Chili packs, and you will no doubt be thinking "what are they?", but this largely depended on what engine type you had selected.


Each ‘pack’ influenced internal features such as upholstery, as well as exterior features like alloys and rear spoilers. Below is a quick guide to each pack.

MINI SALT PACK

Available only on MINI One and One D models, the Salt pack included;

  • Silver interior trim
  • Velour floor mats
  • Seat height adjustment
  • Storage compartment pack
  • Interior lights pack
  • On-board Computer

MINI PEPPER PACK

Available on MINI One, Cooper and Cooper D models, the Pepper pack included everything in the Salt pack, plus;

  • Leather steering wheel
  • Rain sensitive wipers
  • Auto-lights
  • Dual zone auto air conditioning
  • 15" Alloy Wheels
  • Mirror covers in body colour

MINI CHILI PACK

Available only on MINI Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper SD, Cooper S and John Cooper Works models, the Chili pack included everything in the Pepper pack, plus;

  • 3-spoke leather steering wheel
  • Rear roof spoiler
  • Sport suspension
  • Half leather sports seats
  • MINI Driving Modes
  • LED headlights

MINI Packs

However, there are some MINI specifications in the marketplace, which simply don’t exist! Here are some examples:

True:

2010 Model

False:

2013 model

Untitled design (5)

A pepper pack was available on a MINI One model.

A Chili Pack was not available on MINI One models and Sport was not introduced until 2018. 

2018 - Present

However, in 2018, the MINI range was made much simpler.

  1. Pick your model: MINI 3 Door Hatch, MINI 5 Door Hatch, MINI Clubman, MINI Countryman, MINI Convertible, MINI Electric
  2. Pick your fuel type: Petrol, Diesel, Plug In Hybrid (Countryman Only) or Electric
  3. Choose your style: Classic, Sport or Exclusive
  4. Then choose your pack:


These packs are:

  • Comfort Pack
  • Comfort Plus Pack
  • Navigation Pack
  • Navigation Plus Pack
  • Driving Assistance Pack

SALT (1)

If you would like to find out what is included in each of the above packs, you can find out here.

In fact, the best way to check what model you are purchasing is to pay for a HPI Check on the car. This generally costs under £5, but is worth it for checking a specification of a Used MINI. You can also use free websites such as: https://www.carveto.co.uk/blog/car-spec-check/.

If you have any questions about your Approved Used MINI, then please don’t hesitate to contact us.

Enquire now

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