Quote Originally Posted by nickyboy View Post
And changing the head unit on an R56, I wouldn't know where to start
Not a problem if the head unit charges the iPod simultaenously when playing, but if not I want my own Alpine iPod in there
Not sure you can change the head unit in the R56 as its slightly different to the older shape, having the speedo built within the buttons for the stereo. I could be wrong, just couldn't work out where you'd get a different CD player to sit.... As for controlling your iPod. My old Mini (R56 shape) had only an aux port so it couldn't be controlled through my steering wheel or controls, only the iPod itself could control it. You'd need iPod cable fitted(normally in the glovebox). The newer R56s have aux and USB so with one cable you can control your iPod but they may be little out of your price range.

IMO I think for what you want and want to do to your Mini an R53 is your best option. Can change stereo easily, and probably cheaper to fit heated feature for your seats and R53 would be cheaper so you'd get better spec....