Fact. Only Audi owner I know said, not to get one because his gearbox was playing up from day one. Audi Australia did nothing to rectify the problem.
Fact. My personal experience with BMW product is that they break down and cost an arm and leg to get fixed.
I have heard some horrible stories about Mercs but in general most owners seem happy.
My experience with Mazda and Toyota is that I have not had any problems at all. I had a corolla for ten years, did 180,000 kms and nothing but brakes, battery and oil changes was needed. So that is why I am likely to go with a Lexus to replace my Mini Cooper S.
The Mini has been a great car to drive and have fun with. The list of problems does take the smile of your face. Here is the list of problems over ten years: Key fob, two engine mounts, two supercharger belt tensioners, steering column, power steering pump, drivers automatic window, abs module, cam shaft sensor and steering control arm. The car has only done 110,000 kms.
So its back to a Japanese made car.