Mini Coopers are widely recognized for their small size and responsive handling. They are great cars for city driving, especially when it comes time to find a parking spot in a crowded neighborhood. Minis also perform well in the winter, as long as the driver has prepared himself for winter driving and has gotten the vehicle up to speed. Driving a Mini Cooper in the winter is tricky, but with the right mindset and a little care, it can be a rewarding and fun experience.
Practice driving in the snow in a deserted parking lot. It is a good idea to do this just after the first snowfall to get a good idea of how your Mini responds to snow and what precautions need to be taken in the future.
Shift carefully. One of the easiest ways to lose traction is to shift into a higher gear too early and force the wheels of your Mini to spin. Try to drive in the highest gear possible to smooth transitions between gears and improve stability.
Avoid areas with large quantities of snow. The Mini’s light weight and general responsiveness make it good for winter driving but also handicap it when snow gets too deep. Consider alternate transportation if the snow is stacking over the curb.
Put winter tires on your Mini. No all-season tire is as good in the winter as a winter tire, so make sure to prep for the season with the correct gear. Winter tires will improve your traction and make you safer.
Remember that driving in winter conditions can be dangerous. As with any other driving situation, safety should always be your first priority.
