Mini Cooper burning smell

I have heard of a problem with the new mini's that the exhaust manifold and other parts of the engine get grass and mud and other bits of rubbish caught up, and it burns when the engine is hot. I would still get a garage to have a look though

Check this NOW.
There is a tendency for the wiring harness that powers the heated windscreen washers to chaff and eventually short circuit. This happens at the passenger (left) side bottom of the bonnet where the wiring runs between the bonnet skin and its inner reinforcing pressings. The same circuit and fuse also powers the door mirrors. Eventually the fuse will blow ofcourse but worst case scenario harness could ignite. Check it ASAP.
To test: Lift bonnet>start engine>have 2nd person operate mirrors>check for smell.