The newer MINI uses the Aisin automatic transmissions, used by many other OE models including BMW and VW. The only 'drawback' may be the lower power output and auto transmission - I would encourage you to test drive one for your own opinion.

Ok, I have owned a recent Beemer, a Z3 auto, which wasn't a bad car, but overpriced. If I HAD no choice, and it's 
a BINI, or walk, then it would be the Peugeot Diesel engine version with Manual Box. It was never available in the USA. When I worked for the Biggest BMW Dealer in Glasgow, back when the BINI was launched, their Top Trouble Shooter warned me off them, as being a bundle of trouble. Some things never change.
Had a friend in Miami, his son bought an early BINI, brand new off the dealers Lot. The gearbox "spat the dummy" within 4 months, and the Dealer refused to honour the Warranty because of "driver abuse". BS.
Rode BMW bikes back in the day, and the way BMW went after Clubs who used their Trade Mark to publicise events was ridiculous.  Try registering a Rover Mini import in the UK as a Rover Mini Cooper.  Ain't going to happen. DVLA will send you back the V5C stating, make MINI, not Rover.

dido. what Jim just said. why would ANYONE buy a BMW mini..  get some cajones and buy a classic mini.. later bc

Thank you, kenatminimania, for the useful information.  Those common engine problems are very similar to some BMW engines of the same vintage.  Their N55 turbocharged inline 6 engine has frequent fuel pump, water pump, and oil filter housing gasket problems.  I’ve had them all, but it is a wonderful engine.

Most of the Minis that have most attracted my attention turn out to be automatic transmission, non-S models. Without knowing any better, my intuition would be to avoid that combination.

There have been some issues on the 2007-2010 models with:

timing chain tensioner
thermostat housing / sensors
high pressure fuel pump (Cooper S only)
auxiliary water pump (Cooper S only)
turbochargers (Cooper S only 2011+ models)

I would suspect if any of these items were an issue, they should have been sorted out by now.

If you don't need the Cooper S performance, I might recommend the Cooper without the turbo - one less thing that can wear out.

MINI updated their models in 2011 and called them Lci models (Life Cycle Impulse). The engines were update from N12 to N14 for Cooper and N16 to N18 for Cooper S. There were also some cosmetic changes. Some of the issue went away, but not all of them.

Here are my recommendations when purchasing any used car:

Find the newest model that fits your budget
Always have a pre-purchase inspection done by a qualified and trusted shop
Find a model with documented service records if possible

Since you are a current BMW owner, expect parts and service costs to be similar.

Good luck!
Ken

Why would anyone in their right mind want a BINI?  Especially a 2nd hand one?  Just skim down the catalogue of problems these cars have, as a quick glance down this page highlights.
Being honest, I wouldn't buy ANY BMW, or Mercedes. Over-rated German crap. I have heard from one of my former work colleagues that Mercedes have even fitted a Renault engine to one of their cars. Says it all really, if true.
Buy a nice Honda or Toyota sporty car if you want a reliable workhorse.
If you still decide to buy a BINI, then get on good terms with your Bank Manager...you'll need him.

I am looking for a used Mini Cooper, preferably a Clubman.  I found several, generally 2008-2011 models, on ebay, Craigslist, and local dealers.  Most of them are high-mileage (90,000+), and the ones with low miles seem to be sold at premiums.  I have no preference between an S-model and non-S, and I prefer a manual transmission, though I would settle for an automatic.  The past several days I have looked also at standard Minis too.

Are there any common problems with model years 2008-2011? Are any engine/transmissions troublesome?  Is there anything I should look for?

I have a BMW 335i convertible, and the wife drives a 3.5 X3, so we have had our fair share of car problems.  The Mini will be a second car for me, because I would like to avoid having to put so many miles on the 335i.

Thank you for listening!!!