 My wife needed to replace her Mini Cooper with a bigger, safer car for our new baby.  She loved this car mostly for the looks, but she's been driving it for a few weeks and LOVES it.   It's incredibly easy to drive, has outstanding power, terrific maneuverability, and has handled the rare L.A. rainy season with ease.   There is also plenty  of room in the back, especially with the seats folded down.  The only disappointing thing is the gas mileage.  I expected it to be low, but we're below 14 MPG, including some highway driving.   Ouch.  