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MINI’s return to rally racing in the United States moves from story to stage this weekend. MINI USA and LAP Motorsports begin their 2026 American Rally Association campaign at Michigan’s Sno*Drift Rally, with ongoing updates here throughout the event. The team will be streaming coverage via YouTube, giving MINI fans a front-row seat to snow, gravel, and the kind of winter rally chaos that made the event legendary in the first place. You can watch the live stream here: Updates from the Rally After the first set of stages the F66 JCW of Cristian Perocarpi and co-driver Carlos Schrunder are sitting in second place in the O2WD category. In the Countryman JCW Luis Perocarpi and Mark Wells are off the pace due to an undetermined incident. Rally notes: It was 1?F this morning at the first stage with the stages full of snow. With temperatures down to -5?F tomorrow morning, attrition could be a factor. A Quick Catch-Up on What’s Happening If this feels like it escalated quickly, it did, but not without intent. As we have previously reported on MotoringFile, MINI’s involvement in U.S. rallying started quietly with development entries alongside LAP Motorsports. Those early outings were deliberately low key, focused on learning how modern MINIs performed on American rally stages rather than chasing headlines. That experiment worked. What began as a test has now turned into a full commitment. MINI USA has confirmed it will compete in all eight rounds of the 2026 American Rally Association National Championship, marking the brand’s most serious rally effort in the U.S. in decades. Sno*Drift, held February 6 to 7 in Atlanta, Michigan, is the season opener and one of the toughest events on the calendar. What the Heck is Sno*Drift? Sno*Drift is not a ceremonial start. It is a winter rally run on snow and ice, often with unpredictable conditions and limited grip. It rewards balance, traction, and discipline, qualities that have always suited MINI’s engineering philosophy. If there was ever an event that made sense for MINI’s modern rally return, this is it. For fans, it also makes for great viewing. Cars slide, mistakes are obvious, and skill is impossible to fake. Seeing MINI compete here immediately sets the tone for what this program is meant to be. MINI’s Rally Roots, Briefly MINI’s rally story did not start yesterday. The original Mini Cooper shocked the world in the 1960s with overall victories at the Monte Carlo Rally, beating far more powerful rivals through agility and grip. Decades later, MINI returned to top-level rallying with a brief but high-profile stint in the World Rally Championship in the early 2010s. More recently, the brand proved its endurance credentials with multiple overall wins at Dakar, one of the most demanding motorsport events on the planet. Seen through that lens, a full-season American rally program feels less like nostalgia and more like continuity. How to Watch The easiest way to follow the action is via the team’s YouTube live stream, which will feature stage updates, behind-the-scenes coverage, and real-time context from the rally. It is an ideal way for fans who cannot make it to Michigan to experience the event as it happens and get a sense of how MINI stacks up in real rally conditions. Live Timing & Tracking – The American Rally Association provides real-time stage results and live tracking during the event for all competitors: Use the official ARA live results and tracking page on americanrallyassociation.org/live RallySafe App – For more detailed live tracking (including split times and car positions), fans and attendees often use the RallySafe app, which many ARA competitors carry during stages. For MINI, this weekend is the start of something bigger. For fans, it is a rare chance to watch MINI do what it claims to do best, compete where balance and character matter more than polish. We will continue covering the team’s progress throughout the season, but for now, grab a coffee, click the stream, and enjoy MINI back on American rally stages where it belongs. The post MINI Rally Updates: Updates from the Sno*Drift Rally appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Happy New Year, White Roof – the first and longest-running MINI podcast in the world. Gabe and I recap the last couple of months of MINI news and look ahead into 2026. It’s a wide-ranging convo about all things MINI, including some no-holds-barred opinions that don’t usually get written about on MotoringFile. I’ve made a few updates to the Whiteroodradio.com, you should click over and check it out. I’ve also decided White Roof Radio will be returning to monthly episodes. If we can’t record, you’ll get a best of from our catalog of over 1,000 audio recordings. The post White Roof Radio 703: Look Ahead to MINI in 2026 appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

When was the last time a MINI concept made automotive obsessives actually gasp? For most of us, that moment came when the MINI JCW x Deus Ex Machina concept was revealed in Europe, a collision of British go?karting pedigree and surf?culture cool that felt less like a show car and more like a manifesto on four wheels. Now that same beast has officially crossed the Atlantic for its North American premiere at the 2026 Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto this month. In case you missed it, the Machina concept was one two cars that were designed as a collaboration between MINI and the brand Deus Ex Machina. While both were stunning, the Machina concept was the one that drew the most praise for its fusion of MINI’s motorsport history and the attitude and aesthetic of surf culture. The result isn’t some sterile corporate sketch; it’s a car with matte paint, bold graphics, and accessories that wear their inspiration on their sleeve, a kind of bespoke scooter?meets?race?car vibe that feels right at home in Cali as much as in Carnaby Street. There’s no hint the JCW x Deus is headed for production, it’s a show car, pure and simple, but that’s part of the fun. Concepts like this remind us what MINI does best: take a simple recipe, lightweight chassis, torquey engine, cheeky personality, and remix it until you either love it or hate it. But there’s been plenty of rumors since their release that MINI is looking to bring some of the energy we see here to future JCW models. For the Canadian show, the concept anchors a broader JCW presence that includes the MINI JCW 3 Door and the burly JCW Countryman ALL4, both pitched as premier examples of how far MINI performance has come. Attendees can even test drive select models, which feels like the appropriate counterpoint to gawking at a wild concept car. In a year that already promises a slew of electrified MINI debuts and design shifts, this Deus?sanctioned weird child is a welcome wildcard, a reminder that MINI’s heart still belongs to drivers who value expression and character as much as 0?60 times. If you’re planning to be in Toronto between February?13 and?22, 2026, consider the JCW x Deus Ex Machina concept showroom time well spent. The post North American Debut: The MINI JCW x Deus Ex Machina Concept Arrives in Toronto appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

It’s official – MINI is back in rally. For months we’ve been circling this story, first when we broke the news last fall that MINI was “rally curious”, and then again just a few days ago when we confirmed the full-season push was imminent. Now, MINI has finally made it official: the brand is stepping into a factory-backed, full-season campaign in the 2026 American Rally Association (ARA) National Championship. Running under the banner The John Cooper Works Race Team, MINI USA and LAP Motorsports will campaign two rally-prepped machines, a MINI John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 and the 2-door MINI Cooper S, across the ARA’s challenging national calendar. The season kicks off this weekend, February 6-7, 2026, at the storied Sno*Drift Rally in Atlanta, Michigan, marking a genuine revival of the brand’s legendary rallying DNA. From Teaser to Full-Blown Program What began as an exploratory regional effort in 2025, where lightly modified Cooper and Countryman cars gave fans a first look at MINI’s rally potential in the U.S., has now matured into a strategic motorsport commitment by MINI USA and its long-time partner LAP Motorsports. This isn’t a marketing cameo or a museum piece in motion, it’s a national championship campaign with serious intent and competition machinery built to finish every stage and score real results. Kate Alini, MINI USA’s Head of Marketing, Product, and Strategy, stated that after successful regional outings and early fan enthusiasm, MINI was ready to “jump in with a full season commitment” and reconnect the brand with its iconic rally roots. Cars That Stay True to MINI’s Character The rally cars retain much of their factory character, with modifications focused on safety and compliance with ARA class rules rather than bespoke performance parts. That means what you see is what MINI built: chassis balance, torque delivery, and pure handling prowess, now unleashed on snow, gravel, and forest stages. John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4 — Competing in the Limited 4 Wheel Drive class (L4WD), this is the newest incarnation of MINI’s compact SUV with all-road capabilities that should thrive on mixed surface stages. MINI Cooper S 2-Door — The classic short-wheelbase performer enters the Open 2 Wheel Drive class (O2WD), playing to its nimble chassis and go-kart-like agility. The result should be an engaging contrast, the rugged, planted All4 Countryman versus the lithe, tossable Cooper S, both rooted in the brand’s performance mantra. Dealers on the Road and in the Pits One unique twist in this program is the involvement of MINI dealer technicians as part of the rally crew at select events. Top performers from the dealer network will be invited to join LAP’s support team at races throughout the season, a real hands-on extension of the brand’s performance culture and a reward for the passionate professionals who keep MINIs going on the street and now in competition. A Rally Heritage Reborn MINI’s rally history is the stuff of folklore. In the 1960s, the original Mini Cooper S rewrote the rulebook, taking multiple Monte Carlo Rally victories against bigger, more powerful rivals. That heritage informs this modern effort, which recalls not only classic European forests but decades of competition spirit that has defined the brand. With this announcement, MINI’s presence in rallying returns in a way that respects that legacy while also pushing the brand into fresh, competitive territory, one that extends beyond strategy presentations into real gravel, snow, and dirt. The Rally Calendar The 2026 ARA season stretches from February through October and includes classic events across the United States. Opening with Sno*Drift, a winter stage rally where cars race on snow and ice-covered forest roads, the calendar promises a gauntlet of conditions that will test drivers, cars, crews, and strategy alike. Here’s the full rundown: Sno*Drift Rally February 6-7, 2026, Atlanta, Michigan Rally in the 100 Acre Wood March 13-14, 2026, Salem/Potosi, Missouri Olympus Rally April 17-19, 2026, Shelton, Washington Southern Ohio Forest Rally June 11-13, 2026, Chillicothe, Ohio Rally Colorado July 18-19, 2026, Rangely, Colorado Ojibwe Forests Rally August 27-29, 2026, Detroit Lakes, Minnesota Overmountain Rally Tennessee September 18-19, 2026, Newport, Tennessee Lake Superior Performance Rally October 9-10, 2026, Marquette, Michigan This commitment from MINI USA and LAP Motorsports may well signal a broader shift in how manufacturers view American rallying, from a grassroots passion to a platform worthy of sustained factory support. And it’s perfect timing as the WRC is officially exploring a rally in the US as we speak. Stay tuned here at MotoringFile as the season unfolds, the team logs miles, and MINI’s rally story continues to evolve. The post MINI Officially Commits to Full 2026 ARA Rally Season with Two Factory-Backed Cars appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

For decades, MINI JCW meant something very specific. Loud, stiff, a little unruly, and unapologetically focused on performance and feel over comfort. A MINI JCW was never meant to be the best MINI for everyone. It was meant to be the best MINI for a very particular kind of driver. Lately, that definition feels like it is shifting and it may not be a bad thing when it comes to the business of selling cars. The most recent example comes from Road & Track, which did not mince words after evaluating the latest MINI JCW as part of its Performance Car of the Year testing. The verdict was blunt. Despite the badge and the power figures, the car struggled to deliver the kind of engagement and dynamic edge expected of a modern performance hatch. Steering feel, chassis communication, and overall excitement fell short of the standards traditionally associated with the JCW name. While we’re not entirely in agreement with all of Road and Track’s opinions on the F66, they have some valid concerns. And they didn’t even bring up the lack of a manual. Other outlets and long-time MINI enthusiasts have echoed similar concerns. The common thread is not that the JCW is slow or incapable. It is that it feels softened. More polished. More approachable. And, depending on your perspective, less special. We’ve seen this in our recent review of the J01, F66 and F67 JCWs. They’re all compelling but also quite a bit removed from those early R53 or even R56 JCWs. But this shift seems not only intentional but so far successful. The sub-brand just had its best year ever on paper (although we’d argue it’s likely because of all those JCW Style packages it sells). But it’s clear that consumer tastes have shifted dramatically since the R53 JCW and EU regulations around C02 and even noise have entered the picture. Buyers expect performance cars to be usable every day, quiet on the highway, comfortable in traffic, and packed with technology. The days when harsh ride quality and razor-edge handling were forgiven simply because a car was fast are fading quickly. MINI, like every brand under the BMW Group umbrella, is operating in a market that rewards broad appeal and punishes niche extremism. A great example is BMW M. When they decided to build a bespoke model a few years ago they didn’t create something extreme or enthusiast oriented. They made a massive SUV. From that lens, the modern JCW starts to make sense. It is quicker than ever in a straight line. It is easier to live with. It does not punish you on a long commute or a rough road as it once did. For many buyers, that balance is not a compromise. It is the point. One could argue that this is exactly where the MINI JCW Style fits in. A design-forward expression of performance that leans into attitude, aesthetics, and everyday usability rather than enhanced capability. But for quite a few JCW buyers, only the fastest MINI will do. Which raises the uncomfortable question. If the hardcore, edge-of-your-seat experience is no longer the priority, is JCW still meant to be the performance pinnacle of the MINI lineup? Or has it quietly become something else entirely? Or is our definition of performance simply changed? Meanwhile the marketing language has only gotten more oriented towards the brand’s storied past despite the driving experience subtly shifting to more accommodating. And with the manual gone, there’s a lack of tactile interaction that historically set the car apart in the market. That gap between expectation and reality is where disappointment creeps in, especially among enthusiasts who grew up associating JCW with something borderline unhinged. So is this evolution a smart move or a misstep? If your goal is to sell more cars to a broader audience, so far this has been a smart move. A more forgiving, more comfortable JCW aligns perfectly with modern buying behavior. If your goal is to preserve the emotional connection that made JCW special in the first place, the answer is less clear. MINI has always walked a fine line between charm and performance. The current JCW suggests the pendulum has swung toward charm and daily livability. Whether that is progress or dilution depends on what you believe the JCW badge should stand for in 2026 and beyond. JCW hasn’t lost its soul just because it’s tweaking its products to sell to consumers. It’s still there, under the hood. The real question is, will MINI be bold and let it out for something even more special? The post Is JCW Going Soft or Simply Finding the Right Balance? appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Let’s start with what makes this special edition special. The Shadow Edition pairs MINI’s 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo diesel (148 HP and 266 ft-lb.) with a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and JCW paddle shifters. It’s clothed in Legend Grey with a black roof and sport stripes, topped off with Union Jack mirror caps and 19-inch JCW Runway Spoke wheels in black. Inside, it’s full stealth: black Vescin seats, a black dashboard, and anthracite headliner—all part of the JCW trim. The whole thing is wrapped in the concept of “an SUV that lets your individuality shine,” which, ironically, it does by toning everything down. The result is stylish, premium, and oddly fresh in a market where bright colors and oversized grilles tend to dominate. And yes—diesel isn’t dead yet. At least not in Japan, nor in parts of Europe where efficient long-distance torque still matters. The Shadow Edition’s diesel powertrain is very much alive and well, reminding us that MINI isn’t quite ready to close the book on compression ignition. For some buyers, it’s still the ideal mix of performance and fuel economy in a compact SUV. That brings us to the bigger question: could we see this trim package, or even the Shadow Edition concept, applied to other engines and markets? With the JCW Trim becoming available on standard Countryman D models from July production onward, MINI clearly sees a future in combining its most performance-oriented design cues with non-JCW drivetrains. That opens the door for potential petrol-powered versions of this aesthetic, especially in diesel-averse regions like the US. It’s easy to imagine a Cooper S Shadow Edition or even a Countryman SE Shadow Edition, leveraging the same dark styling and premium touches but with powertrains better suited to other global markets. With MINI steadily expanding its Port-Installed JCW Accessories program, there’s precedent for special trims like this to cross borders with the right engine underneath. And let’s be honest: MINI fans love special editions. Whether it’s the Resolute, Untamed, or Untold or the original JCW GP, limited-run MINIs have long been collector catnip and showroom eye-candy. So, will the Shadow Edition remain a Japan-only affair? Or is MINI quietly preparing to globalize this concept, diesel or not, as part of its growing portfolio of design-led special editions? Stay tuned as we dig deeper into MINI’s production roadmap and regional model updates. And in the meantime, let us know: would you drive a MINI Shadow Edition if it hit your market? Diesel or electric, is this the look you’ve been waiting for? The post MINI Countryman Shadow Edition – A Diesel Special Edition? appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI is going rally racing in the United States for 2026, carrying forward a legacy that began on European snow and mountain roads in the 1960s and helped define what the brand still claims to stand for today. Rallying is where MINI earned its reputation, not through excess power or polish, but through balance, traction, and an almost stubborn refusal to be intimidated by bigger machinery. That legacy now has a modern American chapter. MINI USA has confirmed it will compete in eight American Rally Association National Championship rounds during the 2026 season, marking the brand’s most serious and sustained rally effort in the U.S. in decades. The campaign begins February 6–7 at Michigan’s Sno*Drift Rally and builds directly on the development work MINI has been doing with LAP Motorsports, an effort we have been closely following as the brand tested its relevance on contemporary American rally stages. This is not a marketing cameo or a single heritage-themed appearance. It is a full national campaign, spanning snow, gravel, forests, and altitude, the kind of terrain where rally cars and rally myths are either validated or quickly retired. Photo courtesy of LAP Motorsports From “Let’s See What Happens” to Full Commitment If this sounds familiar, it should. MINI’s re-entry into U.S. rallying did not begin with a grand announcement. It began with something far more MINI-like: a low-key, pragmatic test. Last season, MINI and LAP Motorsports entered lightly modified Cooper and Countryman rally cars in select ARA events, effectively asking a simple question we explored in our earlier reporting on MotoringFile: does a modern MINI still make sense in the environment that made the original famous? The answer, it turns out, was yes. More importantly, it was yes without theatrics. The cars ran close to stock mechanically, focused on safety compliance and reliability rather than bespoke rally exotica. That approach aligned perfectly with rally’s appeal in the U.S., where ingenuity still matters more than budget and where spectators are close enough to smell the brakes. Those early outings were framed as development, but they also served as proof of concept. MINI did not just survive on American stages, it looked appropriate there. That distinction matters. Photo courtesy of LAP Motorsports Eight Rounds, No Excuses For 2026, MINI USA is stepping fully into the arena. The brand will contest all eight national ARA rounds, starting with Sno*Drift and continuing through events like Rally in the 100 Acre Wood, Olympus Rally, Southern Ohio Forest Rally, Rally Colorado, Ojibwe Forests Rally, Overmountain Rally Tennessee, and the Lake Superior Performance Rally. This is the opposite of dipping a toe in the water. American rally is not forgiving, and a full season commitment means showing up when conditions are miserable, logistics are complicated, and social media returns are modest at best. In other words, it means taking rally seriously. LAP Motorsports’ involvement is the quiet reassurance here. This is a team that understands how to make production-based cars competitive without losing the plot, and how to run a program that values finishing as much as outright pace. In rally, that mindset is often the difference between relevance and embarrassment. MINI’s Rally Heritage MINI’s rally credentials are not theoretical. The original Mini Cooper rewrote the rules of international rallying in the 1960s, most famously with multiple outright victories at the Monte Carlo Rally, beating far larger and more powerful cars by exploiting grip, agility, and a complete disregard for convention. Decades later, MINI returned to the world stage with a factory-backed program in the World Rally Championship in the early 2010s, a short but telling reminder that the brand still understood the demands of top-level rallying even if the timing and politics limited its lifespan. Then came Dakar, where MINI quietly became dominant, racking up multiple overall wins in the world’s most punishing off-road event and proving that endurance, reliability, and smart engineering still mattered more than nostalgia. Seen in that context, a full-season American rally program in 2026 feels less like a retro gesture and more like a logical continuation of a competition story that never really went away. Photo courtesy of LAP Motorsports MotoringFile Take Rallying has become a convenient word in automotive marketing, often invoked without any actual dirt involved. MINI’s decision to commit to a full ARA season cuts through that noise. It places the brand back in a discipline that rewards the very traits MINI still claims as core, agility, composure, and driver engagement under pressure. It also reconnects MINI USA with a grassroots motorsport audience that values authenticity over spectacle. Rally fans tend to notice when a manufacturer shows up for real, and they notice just as quickly when it leaves. Photo courtesy of LAP Motorsports There are no guarantees here, no podium promises, and no nostalgia safety net. Just cars, crews, and eight chances to prove that MINI’s rally roots are not just a story from the 1960s, but something that can still hold up under modern scrutiny. From where we sit, that makes this one of the most interesting MINI stories in years, not because it looks backward, but because it finally puts the brand back where its mythology has always said it belongs. The post MINI Is Going Rally Racing in the U.S. for 2026, and it All Starts Next Weekend appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

BMW’s new iDrive X system represents a fundamental rethink of in-car technology, anchored by the panoramic vision display and BMW’s next-generation operating system. We recently spent time with the system during a hands-on drive that explored how panoramic vision reshapes the driver’s field of view and interaction model in our look at BMW’s new cockpit technology. According to sources familiar with MINI’s internal planning, the brand is now actively considering adding a version of BMW’s new iDrive system to both the Countryman and Cooper later in their current lifecycle. That marks a shift from earlier expectations that such a significant interface change would wait for an all-new generation of MINI platforms. This possible move is directly tied to MINI’s decision to extend production of its current ICE models. As we have previously reported in our coverage of MINI’s extended product roadmap, the Cooper and Countryman are expected to remain in production well into the next decade, creating more flexibility for deeper mid-cycle updates. That matters because iDrive X is not simply a software update. The panoramic vision display requires new projection hardware, additional processing power, and tighter integration with vehicle systems. These kinds of changes have traditionally aligned with major LCIs or full generational shifts, but the growing importance of computing power is already reshaping how BMW and MINI approach product updates, as we outlined in our analysis of processing power replacing horsepower. If MINI proceeds, the most realistic timing would be a later LCI, potentially a second refresh toward the end of the decade. Sources emphasize that any MINI implementation would be adapted to the brand’s own design language rather than directly mirroring BMW’s execution, following a pattern MINI has used with previous generations of BMW infotainment, something we explored when looking at what future iDrive systems mean for MINI. This approach would also be consistent with MINI’s broader digital strategy, including its decision to chart its own course on infotainment ecosystems rather than simply following BMW’s lead, as seen in MINI’s thinking around CarPlay Ultra. Plans are not final and could change, but the fact that MINI is now seriously evaluating iDrive X for existing Countryman and Cooper models is significant. Our interpretation of how MINI might integrate iDriveX’s Panoramic Display The MotoringFile Take If MINI does move forward with iDrive X on the current Cooper and Countryman, it would signal a more aggressive approach to keeping aging platforms competitive. The risk is overreaching with technology that was never part of the original interior design. The reward is giving MINI a meaningful tech advantage without waiting years for an all-new generation. If MINI can balance BMW’s ambitious interface with the brand’s trademark clarity and charm, this could be one of the most consequential LCIs the brand has ever attempted. The post MINI Is Considering Adding BMW’s New iDrive X Later in the Countryman and Cooper Lifecycle appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI may be heading into a new era, but in Latin America, it is already off to the races. According to BMW Group’s 2025 regional sales report, MINI delivered 7,587 vehicles across Latin America, marking a 19 percent increase over 2024. While the premium segment across the region shrank by 1.6 percent, MINI grew by doing what it does best: offering a compact, character-filled portfolio that now spans combustion, hybrid, and fully electric powertrains. Much of that momentum came from two ends of the MINI spectrum. On one end, the brand’s fully electric lineup nearly doubled its volume, delivering just under 2,000 units across the region. That growth was largely fueled by renewed interest in the MINI Cooper SE and the early success of the new Aceman, MINI’s five-door electric crossover. On the other end, John Cooper Works models saw a 68 percent jump in year-over-year sales, thanks in part to the debut of two electrified JCW variants: the MINI JCW Electric and the JCW Aceman. This is the first time JCW buyers in the region have had a battery-powered option, and early numbers suggest the formula is working. Taken together, MINI’s product strategy in Latin America reads like a case study in brand evolution done right. Rather than forcing electrification, MINI has introduced it gradually alongside combustion models, giving buyers real choices without diluting the core product. Globally, MINI sold just over 288,000 vehicles in 2025, up 17.7 percent from the year before. More than 100,000 of those were fully electric—good for a third of total volume. That growth was largely led by Europe and China, but the Latin American market showed that smaller, developing regions can also deliver meaningful volume, especially when offered a flexible product mix. In 2025, MINI didn’t just outperform expectations. It outmaneuvered the premium segment’s downturn with a blend of performance, personality, and powertrain variety. And with more all-new models like the electric Countryman and JCW variants on the way in 2026, this could be just the start. The post MINI’s Global Comeback: EVs and JCW Models Power 2025 Sales Surge appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

There’s a unique thrill when your MINI arrives at the dealer looking and driving exactly how you envisioned it: aggressive stance, performance parts fitted, and rally-inspired wheels turning heads from the first turn of the key. MINI USA is leaning into that vision with the latest expansion of its John Cooper Works (JCW) Accessories lineup through the Port-Installation Program. MotoringFile has long covered the ins and outs of MINI accessories, spotlighting everything from JCW performance parts to subtle visual mods. The missing piece? Timing. Until now, most personalization happened after the fact, requiring extra trips to the dealer or DIY weekends. But with port-installed accessories, MINI is putting customization at the forefront, before the car even touches the dealership lot. OEM-Backed, Built-In Style Select JCW accessories can now be installed at the port during the vehicle’s final prep stages, offering full integration and immediate enjoyment. From the moment your MINI arrives, it’s already tailored to your taste, with every component factory-approved, backed by warranty, and documented in the official build sheet. “MINI customers are passionate about performance and personal expression, and the John Cooper Works brand sits right at the intersection of both,” said Vikash Joshi, Product Manager, MINI USA. “By expanding JCW accessories through our Port-Installation Program, we’re making it easier than ever for customers to receive a MINI that is already tailored to their driving style, without compromising quality, warranty coverage, or convenience.” Why Port Installation is a Big Deal The beauty of this program goes beyond convenience. For US customers, port-installed accessories can be financed as part of the vehicle’s sticker price. That means no out-of-pocket accessory expenses, no separate financing or credit card charges later, and no surprise costs after delivery. Everything is wrapped into your monthly payment, just like any other factory option. It’s a game-changer for enthusiasts who want to build their ideal MINI without navigating the financial and logistical hassle of post-purchase modifications. What’s Included? The latest additions to the JCW port-installed menu include: Product DescriptionPort CodeMSRP*18″ JCW Rallye Spoke 964 in Frozen Midnight Grey0ZV0$2,935JCW Chili Red Bonnet Stripes0Z91$225JCW Chili Red Boot Stripes0Z92$235JCW C-Pillar Trim in Black High-Gloss0Z2X$635JCW Exhaust Tip in Carbon Fiber0Z6M$560JCW Floating Center Caps0ZEX$190JCW Front Winglets in Black High-Gloss0Z17$560JCW Rear Diffuser in Black High-Gloss0Z23$715JCW Rear Winglets in Black High-Gloss0Z02$415JCW Roof Spoiler in Black High Gloss w/Chili Red accents0Z38$670JCW Side Skirts in Black High-Gloss0Z3R$565JCW Sport Suspension0Z58$2,930JCW Pro Textile Floor Mats0ZE8$250JCW Tow Strap0ZRK$270 JCW Aero Components: Designed for visual aggression and aerodynamic efficiency, these elements bring track-inspired styling that harmonizes with MINI’s design DNA. We’ve covered how aero tweaks enhance the JCW ethos before (https://www.motoringfile.com/section/accessories/), but having them pre-fitted takes it to a new level. JCW Sport Suspension: Sharper turn-in, a lower center of gravity, and improved road feel, without losing daily drivability. This suspension brings a dynamic edge that’s been a hallmark of JCW upgrades for years, now available straight from the port. Having driven the previous iteration of this suspension, we can vouch for it being a game changer in the corners while not eroding ride quality. JCW Rallye Spoke 964 Wheels in Frozen Midnight Grey: A nod to MINI’s rally roots, these lightweight 18-inch wheels offer both form and function. Their inclusion in the port-installed lineup reflects a growing desire among customers to match performance with visual punch—right out of the box. The Full Package: Performance, Protection, and Peace of Mind Because these accessories are installed before delivery, they’re treated as original equipment. That means they’re covered under MINI’s standard warranty and reflected in the car’s official documentation—a crucial detail for resale value, service clarity, and peace of mind. The program doesn’t exclude traditionalists or existing owners either. All of these accessories remain available for dealer installation post-sale, allowing current MINI drivers to retrofit their rides with the same factory-grade hardware. Looking Ahead This expansion marks a quiet but meaningful shift in how MINI approaches personalization. It’s no longer just about what you can add after the fact—it’s about delivering the car you dreamed up from day one. For those who’ve followed our long-standing accessory coverage (https://www.motoringfile.com/section/accessories/), this feels like a natural evolution. The convenience, the financing flexibility, and the fact that it’s all backed by the factory makes this not just a win for MINI owners—but a smart, enthusiast-friendly strategy from MINI USA. Expect more on this front in future coverage, as MINI continues to refine how customization meets convenience. The post MINI USA Expands Port-Installed JCW Accessories appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI has made it official. Starting with March 2026 production, the MINI Countryman EV range increases significantly, pushing the Countryman E past the 500 km WLTP mark while further improving the already strong Countryman SE ALL4. And if this sounds familiar, it should. MotoringFile first reported on this upgrade months ago, outlining MINI’s plans to quietly but significantly improve EV efficiency through rolling technical updates rather than waiting for a full Life Cycle Impulse. Today’s announcement confirms exactly that strategy. A Rolling Update, Not an LCI This is not a facelift, refresh, or mid-cycle redesign. Instead, it is part of BMW Group’s broader shift toward continuous improvement through hardware and software evolution. MINI will increasingly deploy these kinds of rolling updates across its lineup, especially in EVs where efficiency gains can be unlocked without touching the exterior or interior design. Today’s announcement validates that reporting point by point. What’s Changed and Why It Matters The headline number is range. The MINI Countryman E now delivers up to 501 kilometers WLTP, while the Countryman SE ALL4 reaches up to 467 kilometers WLTP. Those are meaningful gains for a vehicle that already balanced size, usability, and electric performance better than most compact SUVs. The improvements come from several key technical updates working together: A new silicon carbide inverter that significantly improves energy conversion efficiency and reduces power losses An increase in usable battery capacity, with the high-voltage system now offering 65.2 kWh net Friction-reduced wheel bearings on the front axle to lower rolling resistance Continued aerodynamic optimization, including a drag coefficient of just 0.26 None of these changes alter how the Countryman looks or feels day to day. But together, they deliver more real-world range and fewer charging stops, especially on longer highway drives. Comparing Current WLTP Range to the 2026 Update Before the 2026 rolling tech update, the all-electric MINI Countryman lineup already offered respectable WLTP figures, with the single-motor Countryman E rated around 462 kilometers WLTP and the dual-motor Countryman SE ALL4 coming in around 433 kilometers WLTP in European spec. These figures gave the Countryman EV a competitive stance among compact electric SUVs by balancing usable range with its relatively modest 66.5 kWh battery pack. Compared with those benchmarks, the updated 2026 Countryman E’s 501 km WLTP and SE ALL4’s 467 km WLTP are meaningful increases that push the model’s real-world touring potential even further without resorting to a larger battery. How WLTP Might Translate to EPA Range for the U.S. WLTP numbers tend to be more optimistic than EPA ratings in the U.S., often translating to roughly 10 – 15 percent lower when switched to the stricter EPA cycle. Using that typical delta, the updated Countryman E’s 501 km WLTP could equate to roughly 260 – 280 miles EPA. The Countryman SE ALL4’s 467 km WLTP would likely align with around 240 – 260 miles EPA. That would represent a noticeable improvement over today’s U.S. Countryman SE’s EPA range, which sits around 204 – 212 miles depending on wheel size. With this increase, the 2026 model could be substantially more compelling for American buyers who prioritize longer range and fewer charging stops. Charging and Everyday Use Still Lead the Segment Despite the larger usable battery, charging performance remains unchanged in the best way possible. DC fast charging still takes the battery from 10 to 80 percent in under 30 minutes, preserving the Countryman SE’s strength as a genuinely easy EV to live with. For owners, this means more freedom without added complexity. More range, same usability, same design. It is exactly the kind of upgrade EV buyers want and one that rewards MINI for focusing on efficiency rather than chasing headline power numbers. What This Signals for MINI’s Future Just as important as the range increase itself is what it represents. MINI is clearly embracing a future where vehicles evolve continuously. Hardware, software, and efficiency improvements will arrive when ready, not when a model-year calendar demands it. As we’ve said before, this is how EV development should work. Quiet, incremental improvements that make ownership better without forcing buyers to wait years for an LCI badge. The post 2026 MINI Countryman EV Range Jumps Past 500 km appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI Cooper EV production could be moving out of China and into Europe as electric MINI sales accelerate across the continent. While EV adoption varies widely by market, Europe has quickly become MINI’s most important electric stronghold, raising new questions about where future electric Coopers should be built. In 2025, BMW Group delivered more than 288,000 MINI vehicles globally, an increase of 17.7 percent year over year. More than 105,000 of those were fully electric, up an astonishing 87.9 percent compared to 2024. Globally, that means roughly one in three MINIs sold is now a battery electric vehicle. That global figure, however, masks a sharp regional imbalance. In several European markets, including the Netherlands, Sweden, and Turkey, electric vehicles now account for more than 50 percent of MINI’s total sales. In Europe, MINI EVs have moved beyond early adoption and into the core of the brand’s product offering. In contrast, adoption in the U.S. and other markets remains far more cautious. This divergence matters because of where electric MINIs are built today and what it costs MINI to sell them. The all-electric MINI Cooper 3-Door and the MINI Aceman, which arrived in the last 18 months, are produced in Zhangjiagang, China. The electric MINI Countryman, by contrast, is built in Leipzig, Germany alongside combustion and hybrid variants. While this split offered flexibility when EV volumes were lower, it now comes with real financial consequences. Due to tariffs, MINI’s profit margins on the electric Cooper and Aceman in Europe are lower than they otherwise could be. Those same tariff and sourcing challenges are also a key reason the electric Cooper and Aceman are not sold in the United States at all. In effect, China-based production is limiting MINI’s ability to fully capitalize on its strongest EV market while simultaneously blocking access to others. This is not how MINI originally envisioned the transition. BMW had planned to begin producing electric MINI Coopers in the UK as early as this year, bringing EV production back to Oxford. Those plans were first halted and then officially paused, leaving China as the primary production hub for MINI’s small electric cars. BMW has been careful in its public messaging since. A spokesperson for BMW and MINI has pointed to ongoing uncertainty around global EV adoption and emphasized the flexibility of BMW Group’s production network. At the same time, the company has repeatedly noted that model allocation and production capacity, including at Oxford, will be adjusted when market conditions justify it. Europe’s EV momentum Building electric MINI Coopers and Acemans closer to where they are sold would reduce tariff exposure, improve margins, shorten supply chains, and better align production with demand. It would also fit neatly into BMW’s broader European EV manufacturing strategy, which already includes Leipzig and other electrified facilities across the region. If restarting UK production continues to face political, economic, or timing challenges, a shift to mainland Europe becomes an increasingly realistic alternative. Leipzig stands out as an obvious candidate given its role in producing the electric Countryman and BMW’s deep experience scaling EV production there. Other European plants could also be considered as BMW continues to rebalance its manufacturing footprint. Such a move would carry symbolic weight. MINI’s identity remains closely tied to the UK, and Oxford still holds enormous brand significance. But MINI in 2025 is being shaped less by heritage and more by regulation, tariffs, and regional demand. With the Aceman now on sale, the Cooper EV gaining traction in Europe, and profitability constrained by China-based production, MINI’s current setup looks increasingly temporary. Moving electric MINI Cooper production out of China and into Europe would not just improve margins. It would signal that Europe has become the true center of gravity for MINI’s electric future. The post Is MINI Preparing to Expand Electric Cooper Production Into Europe? appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

On paper, 2025 should feel like a win for MINI in the U.S. Sales rose 9.3 percent year over year. The brand quietly delivered its one millionth car since BMW brought MINI back to America 23 years ago. Dealers remain profitable. And yet, beneath the surface, there is a growing sense that momentum alone is not enough. According to comments shared with Automotive News, MINI dealers believe the brand’s biggest challenges now are not product quality or showroom traffic, but marketing, brand clarity, and long-term relevance. At the center of that conversation is Frank Koeberlein, chairman of the MINI Dealer Council and general manager of Dreyer and Reinbold MINI in Indianapolis. His message to BMW Group is straightforward. If MINI is going to keep growing in the U.S., it needs more marketing support. Not just to sell cars, but to define what MINI actually stands for in 2026 and beyond. Sales Are Up. Service Is the Missed Opportunity. One of the most telling points from Koeberlein has little to do with new vehicles. It is about service. Despite more than two decades of MINIs on American roads and full factory support for older cars, dealers are not seeing out-of-warranty vehicles returning to their service bays. Instead, those owners are drifting to independent shops. That is not because MINI dealers are uncompetitive. In many cases, they can match or beat independents on routine work like brakes and tires, while using genuine parts and factory-trained technicians. The issue is awareness. Dealers believe a targeted marketing push could bring those customers back, reinforcing that MINI stores are not just places to buy a new car, but trusted destinations for owning and maintaining a used MINI Cooper over the long term. With so many aging R50-generation MINIs, performance-focused R53 Cooper S models, widely available R56-era Coopers, and newer but increasingly out-of-warranty F-generation cars still on the road, this feels like an obvious opportunity that is largely being left on the table. What Is MINI in 2026? The deeper concern, however, is brand identity. Koeberlein openly questions whether MINI has clearly articulated who it is today. The customers walking into showrooms in 2002 are not the same buyers shopping now. Expectations have changed. Media consumption has fractured. Attention spans are shorter. And MINI no longer benefits from the novelty of being “back.” “What is MINI?” he asked during a recent dealer council meeting. What does the logo mean today? What should someone think when they see the wings? What is the emotional hook that makes MINI relevant in a crowded, distracted marketplace? Those are not abstract questions. They directly affect marketing effectiveness, resale values, service retention, and long-term brand health. And they are especially difficult to answer when budgets are tight and the U.S. is not MINI’s top global priority. The Cost of Being a Niche Brand MINI’s position inside BMW Group complicates things. Europe remains the brand’s strongest market, which naturally gives it more influence with the parent company. In the U.S., MINI is profitable but niche. That limits both leverage and budget. Dealers say this reality forces them to be creative, but creativity only goes so far without consistent investment. Awareness remains the brand’s biggest weakness. Too many consumers still do not know what MINI offers today, from product breadth to service capabilities to ownership experience. This is not about chasing mass-market volume. It is about clarity. A clear message travels further, even on a smaller budget. Is There Room for One More MINI? There is also a product question quietly looming in the background. With the lineup now reduced to just the Cooper and Countryman, there is an obvious gap in size and price between them. Filling it with a third nameplate could make sense from a retail perspective. But adding another model would require marketing support, training, and long-term commitment. Right now, dealers are not convinced that investment is coming. Momentum Needs Direction MINI’s 2025 sales growth shows the brand still resonates. The products are strong. Dealers are engaged. The community remains passionate. But growth without direction only gets you so far. What dealers are asking for is not radical reinvention. It is focus. A clearer definition of what MINI is, who it is for, and why it matters today. Backed by marketing that reaches beyond the enthusiast bubble and reminds people that MINI is not just fun to drive, but fun to own. The irony is that MINI already has most of the ingredients. The challenge now is deciding how boldly BMW Group is willing to tell that story in the U.S. market. The post Why MINI’s Biggest Challenge in the U.S. Isn’t Sales, It’s Awareness appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Did you know MINI once built an electric GP? No, not the Formula E pace car that made the rounds a few years ago. This was something far more interesting. A real GP concept, stripped down, turned up, and reimagined with an electric motor dialed well past sensible. Long before EV performance became a marketing checkbox, MINI quietly explored what an electric John Cooper Works GP could be if outright speed and attitude were still the point. The idea itself was very MINI. Take the most extreme version of the brand, remove anything unnecessary, and push the technology harder than expected. In this case, that meant pairing the GP ethos with instant torque, aggressive calibration, and a focus on responsiveness rather than range or refinement. It was never meant to be polite. It was meant to be fast, raw, and a little unhinged. Left: the prototype electric GP. Right: MINI JCW Pacesetter Formula E pace car. We have explored this idea before. Back in 2020, we argued that an all electric JCW GP could be the ultimate expression of modern MINI performance, not in spite of electrification but because of it. The prototype, while unfinished, hinted at this. A full GP with an SE battery pack, it was powered by a higher performance e-motor and more advanced DSC. Sources suggested it was the fastest MINI ever in tight, technical tracks – exactly what you’d want from a fast MINI and clearly not a marketing exercise like the Pacesetter. But at the time MINI wasn’t sure if there was a real market. Five years later, as the industry once again circles the idea, we revisited the question of whether the future of the JCW GP might ultimately be electric after all. At the time, the logic was compelling. Electric motors offer exactly what a GP thrives on. Immediate response. Brutal low end torque. Precision control that combustion engines can only approximate. On paper, an electric GP made sense. Maybe more sense than any other MINI. And yet here we are. The broader performance EV market is starting to tell a more complicated story. As electric vehicles have matured, they have also converged. For many buyers, EVs are now defined less by excitement and more by efficiency, incentives, and daily usability. Quiet, fast enough, and increasingly similar. That reality sits uncomfortably close to performance brands that have always traded on emotion, feedback, and character. The electric Porsche Taycan has seen a downturn in sales since launch. This is not a MINI specific problem. High performance electric cars across the industry are struggling to maintain momentum once the novelty fades. Straight line speed has become commoditized. Software promises engagement but often delivers polish instead. The result is a growing gap between what these cars can do and how much people actually care. Even suppliers are feeling the shift. Major players have begun publicly acknowledging that EV demand is not ramping as expected, leading to cancelled projects and expensive recalibrations. This is not ideological resistance. It is market reality asserting itself. Which brings us back to that electric GP. The question is no longer whether MINI could build one. The technology exists. The performance would almost certainly be outrageous. An electric GP could out accelerate every GP before it and embarrass far more powerful cars in the process. The harder question is whether that would be enough. The GP has always been about more than numbers. It is about sensation. Noise, vibration, drama, and the feeling that the car is slightly at odds with the world around it. Translating that into an electric format is possible, but it is not guaranteed. Engagement cannot simply be programmed and character cannot be added as a software update without risking something synthetic. MINI once flirted with the idea of an electric GP when performance EVs still felt like a frontier. Today, that frontier feels far more crowded and far less romantic. If an electric GP returns, it will need to do more than be fast. It will need to remind enthusiasts why they cared about the GP in the first place. Not because it was electric. But because it felt alive. The post The Forgotten Electric MINI GP That Predicted Today’s EV Performance Problem appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

2025 MINI Cooper sales numbers are in, and they tell an important story about MINI’s place inside the BMW Group and within the broader European market. In 2025, MINI Cooper emerged as BMW Group’s second best-selling vehicle in Europe, trailing only the BMW X1 and reinforcing the brand’s continued relevance in a market increasingly dominated by crossovers and electrification. BMW Group closed 2025 with 1,016,360 vehicles delivered to customers worldwide, buoyed by strong European demand. Sales on the continent rose 7.3 percent year over year, with electric vehicles accounting for roughly a quarter of total volume. When plug-in hybrids are included, more than 40 percent of BMW Group’s European deliveries were electrified, underscoring how central EVs now are to the group’s growth strategy. According to Automotive News, citing Dataforce’s annual ranking of Europe’s top 50 best-selling cars, BMW Group placed just two models on the list. Leading the way was the BMW X1, which finished 23rd overall with 117,089 units sold. Sales were effectively flat, down just 0.1 percent or 86 cars year over year. Despite missing out on the top 20, the X1 still claimed the title of Europe’s best-selling luxury crossover, narrowly trailing the Audi A3 as the most popular premium-branded vehicle overall. It is also worth noting that Dataforce lists the iX1 separately. When the electric variant is factored in, BMW’s smallest SUV would have climbed further up the rankings, reinforcing just how important the X1 and its EV counterpart have become to BMW’s European footprint. Right behind the X1 in BMW Group’s internal pecking order sits the MINI Cooper. With 94,574 units sold in Europe, the Cooper finished 37th overall, despite a slight 0.2 percent year-over-year dip. These MINI Cooper sales numbers still made it the second best-selling BMW Group product on the continent, ahead of several newer and higher-margin models. In a year where SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate consumer preference, the fact that a small hatchback remains this competitive speaks volumes about MINI’s brand strength and broad appeal. Close behind was the BMW 1 Series, which ranked 39th with 91,931 sales. The 1 Series enjoyed a strong 2025, posting a healthy 9.5 percent increase in demand. Its lower ranking may come as a surprise, but it also reflects the reality of today’s European market, where traditional hatchbacks are increasingly squeezed by compact SUVs. It’s also worth nothing that the top three BMW Group products in terms of sales are MINI-related with the 1 Series and X1 being based on the same FAAR platform as the Countryman. Zooming out, the top of the European sales chart further highlights that crossovers do not yet own everything. The Dacia Sandero claimed the overall crown with 243,676 units sold, followed by the closely related Renault Clio at 229,778. The Volkswagen T-Roc rounded out the podium in third place with 211,241 sales. For MINI, the takeaway is clear. Even in a market tilting heavily toward electrification and taller riding vehicles, the Cooper continues to punch above its weight. Being BMW Group’s second best-selling model in Europe is not just a nice headline. It is proof that MINI’s core product still resonates, and that the brand’s future in Europe remains firmly grounded in the appeal of a small, characterful car done right. The post MINI Cooper Is BMW Group’s Second Best-Selling Car in Europe appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Paul Smith Edition has finally done the most important thing a design-led MINI can do. It has left the studio and joined everyday life. Spotted roaming the streets of Germany, this is our first look at the Paul Smith Edition in real-world conditions, away from turntables, spotlights, and carefully staged reveals. And that matters. This is an edition defined by restraint, texture, and detail rather than spectacle. In traffic and at the curb, its layered colors, subtle contrasts, and playful touches feel more natural and more confident. MINI Paul Smith Edition – Unique Details The collaboration blends MINI’s current design language with Paul Smith’s philosophy of “Classic with a Twist.” In the real world, that twist comes through in layered color, texture, and contrast rather than bold graphics or decals. The MINI Paul Smith Edition is offering on the following Cooper models: Internal Combustion F66 CooperF65 Cooper 5 DoorF67 Cooper ConvertibleElectricJ01 Cooper Here are all the details that make the MINI Paul Smith Edition unique: ExteriorColorsMidnight BlackInspired White (exclusive) Statement Grey (exclusive)Roof treatmentsNottingham Green roof with signature color stripesBlack roof with gloss and matte black signature stripesSignature accentsNottingham Green detailing on side mirrors, octagonal grille surround, and wheel hub caps featuring Paul Smith letteringWheels18-inch Night Flash Spoke Black alloy wheels finished in Dark Steel tinted clear coatInteriorSeatingNightshade Blue seats across all variantsMaterialsBlack knitted interior surfaces with subtle tone-on-tone striped patternsWelcome detail“Hello” light projection activated when opening the doorDoor sillsInscription reading “Every day is a new beginning”Steering wheelTextile band in Paul Smith signature stripes at the 6 o’clock positionFloor matsHand-drawn Paul Smith rabbit graphic reinforcing the brand’s British humor Paul Smith and MINI, seen through a modern lens MINI’s relationship with Paul Smith stretches back to the 1990s, when the original Mini Paul Smith redefined what a special edition could be. That car helped elevate the Mini from practical transport to design object, using color and detail as storytelling tools. What makes this modern collaboration different is how confidently it fits within MINI’s current design era. There is no attempt to recreate the past. Instead, it builds on today’s MINI proportions and surfaces, letting Paul Smith’s influence show up in materials, finishes, and small moments of surprise. Seeing the car on London streets reinforces that point. This is not a collector-only statement piece. It looks at home weaving through traffic, parked outside cafés, and blending into the rhythm of the city that inspired both brands. When it launches and what comes next The fully electric MINI Cooper SE Paul Smith Edition is already available in select markets. The MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper 5-Door, and MINI Cooper Convertible Paul Smith Edition will follow starting in Q2 2026. Pricing in most markets will be released shortly if it isn’t already. MINI Paul Smith Edition Gallery The post MINI Paul Smith Edition Spotted – First Real-World Photos appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

In the long and occasionally strange history of modern MINI, there are a few fascinating what-if stories. One of the most intriguing is the Alpina MINI project. It is a car that never reached production but came surprisingly close, not once but twice, to becoming part of Alpina’s lineup. Recently Alpina showed off a rare prototype of the Alpina MINI at their 60th anniversary and it brought back a flood of memories from the early years of the MINI relaunch. Photo courtesy of Motor1.com Deutschland Alpina Looks at MINI Shortly after BMW relaunched MINI in the early 2000s, Alpina explored the idea of adding the small hatchback to its range as an entry-level model. At the time, the logic was sound. MINI was fresh, premium, and mechanically tied to BMW. Alpina had already built its reputation on taking BMW platforms and refining them into something more luxurious, more characterful, and more exclusive. According to interviews with Alpina leadership, the company went as far as building and testing a prototype. This was not a paper exercise or a styling study. It was a real car evaluated for potential production. In fact it was recently rolled out for Alpina’s 60th anniversary and was captured by Motor1.com Deutschland But the project did not last long. Why It Was Cancelled Burkard Bovensiepen later explained that doubts surfaced relatively quickly. The core issue was cost and complexity. MINI, despite its size, was not cheap to engineer to Alpina standards. Turning the car into a series-production model that met Alpina’s expectations for refinement, performance, and quality would have required disproportionate investment. There was also a more philosophical problem. The original MINI was not part of Alpina’s heritage. Alpina’s identity was built around larger BMWs, long-distance comfort, torque-rich engines, and understated luxury. Even as an entry-level model, the MINI simply did not align naturally with that DNA. In the end, the business case never fully made sense. Not the Only Alpina Reject The MINI is not alone in this category. The BMW i8 famously joined the ranks of Alpina projects that never made it past the prototype stage. In both cases, Alpina explored the idea seriously, built test vehicles, and ultimately walked away when cost, complexity, and brand fit failed to line up. That pattern tells you something important about Alpina. Despite its small size, it has always been disciplined about what it puts its name on. The Wheels That Did Make It While the car itself never happened, one small piece of the Alpina MINI story did reach customers. Alpina quietly offered its signature Alpina Dynamic wheels in MINI sizes, specifically for the R50 and R53 generation cars. For a brief period, MINI owners could spec genuine Alpina wheels, instantly giving their cars a subtle but unmistakable link to Buchloe. Today, those wheels are rare, highly sought after, and one of the few tangible reminders that an Alpina MINI was once more than just a rumor. A Missed Opportunity or the Right Call? With hindsight, it is easy to imagine how compelling an Alpina-tuned MINI might have been. Less about outright performance and more about refinement, torque delivery, ride quality, and interior detail. In many ways, it could have been the spiritual opposite of a JCW. At the same time, Alpina’s decision feels consistent with its history. The brand has survived by being selective, conservative with its resources, and fiercely protective of its identity. The Alpina MINI remains one of those great footnotes in BMW Group history. A real prototype, a real evaluation, and a real decision to walk away. And for enthusiasts, that is often what makes the story so compelling. The post The Cancelled Alpina MINI: The Luxury MINI That Almost Happened appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The 2026 MINI Countryman marks the most significant evolution of the model since its introduction. Bigger in every dimension, more refined in execution, and fully digital inside, this is no longer a niche MINI stretched into crossover form. It is now a serious premium compact SUV designed to compete directly with vehicles like the BMW X1, Audi Q3, and Mercedes GLA. As we have seen in our time with the new lineup, this is the best Countryman to date. But despite there being only three models, there are meaningful differences and important decisions to make when choosing which one is right for you. For U.S. buyers, MINI has simplified the lineup while adding complexity through trims and styles. There are three Countryman models, three trim levels, and three design styles. Understanding how those pieces fit together is the key to buying the right Countryman. This guide breaks down every version sold in the U.S. and explains which one makes the most sense. The Three 2026 MINI Countryman Models ModelPowertrainDrivetrainCharacterCountryman STurbo 2.0L petrolALL4 AWDBalanced daily driverCountryman SEDual-motor electricALL4 AWDRefined EV all-rounderCountryman JCWHigh-output turbo 2.0LALL4 AWDPerformance-focused 2026 MINI Countryman S MotoringFile Review: 2026 MINI Countryman S The Countryman S is the foundation of the lineup and remains the most approachable option for most buyers. Power comes from a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 241 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired exclusively with ALL4 all-wheel drive in the U.S. Performance is strong without being aggressive, refinement is a clear step forward over the previous generation, and the Countryman S finally feels effortless in everyday driving. It is quick enough, quiet enough, and comfortable enough to handle commuting, road trips, and winter duty with ease. Who it is for: Buyers who want one vehicle to do everything well without committing to electric power. 2026 MINI Countryman SE MotoringFile Review: 2026 MINI Countryman SE The Best Countryman for Daily Use The Countryman SE is the standout of the lineup. Not simply because it is electric, but because of how complete it feels as a vehicle. Dual electric motors produce a combined 308 horsepower and 364 lb-ft of torque, delivering smooth and immediate acceleration that suits the Countryman’s size perfectly. EPA-estimated range is approximately 212 miles, but real-world efficiency, strong DC fast charging capability, and well-integrated route planning make the SE easier to live with than the number suggests. Quiet, refined, and exceptionally fluid in daily driving, the SE feels like the Countryman MINI always intended to build. Who it is for: Drivers who value refinement, smooth power delivery, and lower running costs, and who can comfortably live with an EV. 2026 MINI Countryman JCW MotoringFile Review: 2026 MINI Countryman JCW Performance Comes First – The Countryman JCW is the most powerful petrol Countryman ever sold in the U.S. Its 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 312 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with ALL4 AWD and a chassis tuned for sharper responses. Steering is more immediate, body control is tighter, and acceleration is genuinely quick for a vehicle of this size. Ride comfort is firmer than the S or SE, but that tradeoff is intentional. Who it is for: Buyers who want maximum performance and engagement and are not interested in going electric. Trim Levels Explained Trims define features and technology, not appearance. MINI has standardized trim levels across the Countryman lineup, and choosing the right one matters more than ever given how much functionality is now tied to software and driver assistance systems. TrimFocusBest ForSignature (eliminated for 2026 models)Core tech and safetyValue-focused buyersSignature PlusComfort and driver techMost buyersIconicFull luxury specificationPremium-first buyers Signature Trim It’s important to note that MINI USA eliminated Signature Trim for 2026 due to low take-rates. However we’re including this as there are still some new 2025 models available. Key features MINI OS9 with circular OLED display Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto Panoramic glass roof LED headlights and taillights Active Driving Assistant Power tailgate Dual-zone automatic climate control Signature delivers the full digital and safety experience without luxury extras. The Signature Plus Trim on the Countryman JCW Signature Plus Trim The sweet spot of the lineup: Choice of 18” Wheels Panoramic Moonroof MINI Navigation MINI Head Up Display Heated Front Seats Heated Steering Wheel Parking Assistant Wireless Charging Alarm System Remote Engine Start Comfort Package Choice of Classic or Favoured Style For most buyers, this is the trim that makes the Countryman feel properly premium without unnecessary cost. Iconic Trim The fully loaded option: Everything in SIGNATURE PLUS trim + Choice of 18” or 19” Wheels Power Front Seats Interior Camera harman / kardon Premium Sound System Navigation with Augmented Reality Driving Assistant Plus Parking Assistant Plus Comfort Package Plus Privacy Glass Choice of Classic or Favoured Style Iconic trims push pricing higher, but they eliminate the need to pick and choose options. Styles Explained Classic, Favoured, JCW Sport Styles define the visual and material personality of the Countryman and are chosen separately from trims. You select a style first, then layer a trim level on top. Style Availability by Model StyleCountryman SCountryman SECountryman JCWClassicYesYesNoFavouredYesYesNoJCW SportYesYesStandard Classic Style Classic Style (standard) The most traditional MINI look: Choice of 2 Cloth/Vescin upholsteries Choice of 3 Roof/Mirror Colors Piano Black exterior accents Dashboard topper in Black with Blue undertone Steering wheel with Vibrant Silver Stitching and accents Satellite Grey Headliner Sport Seats Body Color Bumper Accents Silver Wheels Favoured Style Favoured Style ($600) More premium and with a touch of flare: Choice of 3 Vescin leather-free upholsteries Choice of 4 Roof/Mirror Colors Vibrant Silver exterior accents Dashboard topper in Petrol blue fading to Vintage brown Closable Box in center console Anthracite Black Headliner John Cooper Works Sport Seats Vibrant Silver Bumper Accents Vibrant Silver Wheels Optional Tow Receiver JCW Sport Style JCW Sport Style ($750 + Requires Iconic Trim) Standard on the JCW model, this Style is also available on the S and SE s a way to add aggressive visuals without requiring the JCW powertrain. Anthracite Black Headliner Choice of 19” Wheels John Cooper Works Aero Body Kit John Cooper Works Exclusive Wheels John Cooper Works Sport Brakes John Cooper Works Sport Seats John Cooper Works Steering Wheel John Cooper Works Vescin and Knit Leather-Free Upholstery Piano Black Exterior Accents Active Driving Assistant Pro in action Options Packages MINI has dramatically reduced the options on this generation of cars down to just two packages. Comfort Package Plus ($1500 or free on iconic) Parking Assistant Plus MINI Navigation AR Comfort Package Max ($2400) Parking Assistant Plus MINI Navigation AR Active Driving Assistant Pro Pricing Overview ModelStarting PriceCountryman S$38,900Countryman SE$45,200Countryman JCW$46,900 Iconic trims can push pricing into the low to mid $50,000 range depending on configuration. What We Would Buy The way that MINI USA has defined the models and specs of the 2026 MINI Countryman, it’s hard to go wrong. But there are clearly certain models that will appeal to certain use cases. Here’s the way we rank them: Best overall: Countryman SE Best value: Countryman S Signature Plus Most engaging: Countryman JCW Our ideal configuration This will be a bit controversial but we would pick the electric Countryman as a daily over the S and JCW. But that’s only if you’re able to charge at home and don’t often take trips of more than 200 miles round trip. If that sounds like you, here’s our recommended spec: Countryman SE Trim: Iconic (for the h/k audio system) Style: Favoured (For the look) Options: Comfort Package Plus (Assisted Driving Plus auto-routes on the SE) That combination delivers the strongest balance of performance, refinement, technology, and design without unnecessary cost. If you need to go petrol it’s hard to pass on the standard Countryman S. Yes the JCW has more power but the Countryman S quietly has the same 280 ft lbs of torque as the JCW and feels almost as fast in everyday use. It’s also around $6,000 cheaper than a similarly equipped JCW. If going that route, here’s what we’d choose: Countryman S – $43,700 Trim: Iconic (for the Driving Assistant Plus and h/k audio system) Style JCW (for the shift paddles alone) Final Thoughts The 2026 MINI Countryman is no longer a compromise. It is more capable, more refined, and more competitive than any Countryman before it. Whether petrol or electric, MINI has finally delivered a compact SUV that feels fully at home in the premium segment. The only real challenge now is choosing which version fits your life best. The post 2026 MINI Countryman Buying Guide: Trims, Models, Pricing, and What to Buy appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

If you are shopping for a new 2026 MINI Cooper in the United States, this is the point in the product cycle where things get interesting. The big design and technology changes are already baked in, the initial launch noise has faded, and MINI USA has started making quieter, more practical adjustments to pricing, trims, and equipment. These are the kinds of changes that matter most to buyers and here’s how to unlock them. The current generation of MINI Cooper debuted for the US market in 2024. Rather than starting from scratch, MINI took a more measured approach. Underneath, this new range builds directly on the previous generation with updated chassis tuning and revised engines. On the outside, the design was cleaned up and simplified. Inside, everything changed. The old dashboard architecture was replaced with an all-new interior centered around the circular OLED display and MINI Operating System 9. Now in its second full year on sale, the 2026 MINI Cooper lineup reflects a brand settling into that strategy. The fundamentals remain the same, but MINI USA is making small, important tweaks to how the cars are priced, packaged, and sold in the US. For buyers, that means clearer choices, fewer configurations, and a higher risk of paying for features you may not actually want. This guide is written to help you cut through that. It focuses on real-world consumer advice, what the 2026 MINI Cooper costs in the US, how the trims differ, and which versions make the most sense depending on how you actually plan to use the car. The 2026 MINI Cooper Lineup (US) For 2026, MINI USA offers the Cooper in three body styles and three performance levels, three trim levels and (mostly) three style packages. Confused yet? Here’s how they break down. What is a trim? A trim defines the equipment level of a MINI. It determines what features come standard or optional, such as wheels, lighting, upholstery, driver assistance systems, audio, and interior finishes. In the U.S., trims like Signature, Signature Plus, and Iconic are essentially bundled feature packages that simplify ordering while still allowing some customization. Left to right: Classic Style, Favoured Style, JCW Style What is a style? A style refers to packages that MINI has created the group styling elements together in a single package. For instance the trim on the Classic Style is more muted and black where it’s a light champaign gold on Favoured. This extends to the wheels, interior colors and other aspects of the car. In short: Trim = what equipment and features the car has Style = what shape and body configuration the car is built in This distinction is key because MINI standardizes trim names across the lineup, but styles are always model-specific. Here’s the full breakdown: Body StylePerformance LevelTrim PackagesStyle PackagesF66 2-Door HardtopCooper CSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleF66 2-Door HardtopCooper SSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleF66 2-Door HardtopJCWSignatureN/ASignature PlusN/AIconicN/A Body StylePerformance LevelTrim PackagesStyle PackagesF65 4-Door HardtopCooper CSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleF65 4-Door HardtopCooper SSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleThe Four door Cooper is the only one that doesn’t offer a full JCW model. Body StylePerformance LevelTrim PackagesStyle PackagesF67 ConvertibleCooper CSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleF67 ConvertibleCooper SSignatureClassic StyleSignature PlusClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleIconicClassic StyleFavoured StyleJCW StyleF67 ConvertibleJCWSignatureN/ASignature PlusN/AIconicN/A Pricing Reality: What a 2026 MINI Cooper Really Costs MINI has continued to move the Cooper upmarket, and pricing reflects that. Model DescriptionBody GroupSignature (Base)Signature PlusIconicMINI Cooper C 4 DoorF65$30,500$32,900$34,600MINI Cooper S 4 DoorF65$33,800$36,200$37,900MINI Cooper C 2 DoorF66$29,500$31,900$33,600MINI Cooper S 2 DoorF66$32,800$35,200$36,900MINI JCW 2 DoorF66$38,900$41,300$43,300MINI Cooper C Conv.F67$34,600$37,000$38,700MINI Cooper S Conv.F67$37,900$40,300$42,000MINI JCW Conv.F67$44,600$47,000$49,000Destination adds $995 In practice, most well-equipped MINI Coopers will land in the low to mid $30,000 range, while JCW models and convertibles can push well into the $40,000s. This is no longer a cheap car. The value depends entirely on choosing the right configuration. The gap between Cooper C, Cooper S, and JCW is now clearly defined. Cooper C – the Entry Level With 161 horsepower, 184 lb-ft and up to 31 mpg combined, the Cooper C is quicker and more refined than older base Coopers and there’s a reason for that. It’s been upgraded from the 3 cylinder B38 from the F56 generation to the exact same B48 that powers the Cooper S. MINI has down-tuned the engine to artificially create a gap between the two models. In our experience, for commuting, city driving, and light highway use, it does the job without feeling underpowered at all. Important note, while there is a sport mode for the transmission, you cannot get shift paddles on the Cooper C and the manual is gone for this generation. Cooper S – The Smart Choice At 201 horsepower, the Cooper S is where the car starts to feel properly quick. The extra power is noticeable in everyday driving, yet fuel economy only drops slightly. This is a revised version of the B48 we knew in the F56 but has been tweaked with both more power and torque (221 lb-ft). For most US buyers, this is the best balance of performance and efficiency. Like the Cooper C, the manual is gone on the Cooper S and you can only get shift paddles if you opt for the JCW Trim option. John Cooper Works – For the Enthusiast JCW delivers 228 horsepower, firmer suspension tuning, and slightly more aggressive brakes. The big upgrade in for this new generation is the increase in torque, now up dramatically to 280 lb-ft. However gone is the much loved Getrag manual as all MINI’s are only offered with the Getrag 7 Speed dual clutch transmission. Shift paddles (unlike the other models) are standard. The JCW is the most engaging version of the MINI Cooper and it’s improved chassis and sound deadening mean there’s less downside than ever if you want the most performance possible. The F66 two door, F65 four door, F67 convertible Body Style Matters More Than You Think Choosing the right body style has a bigger impact on ownership than trim level. F66 2-Door Hardtop This is the lightest, quickest, and most efficient option. If you value driving feel and do not need rear seat access often, this remains the purest MINI Cooper experience. Pro-trip when the seats are down, the trunk is as big as a BMW 3 Series. F65 4-Door Hardtop The extra doors transform daily usability with only a modest performance penalty. For buyers who want one car that can handle passengers, errands, and commuting, this is the smartest all-around choice. However it’s often seen as the ugly duckling of the MINI range with its oddly shaped rear profile. And those doors (all four) are small which makes getting in and out more difficult for taller drivers and passengers. F67 Convertible This is an emotional decision. It is heavier, slower, and less efficient, but nothing else in the segment delivers the same open-top experience. Just be honest about the tradeoffs and go all in on the open-top off that’s what you’re after. Trim Strategy: Where MINI Makes It Easy to Overspend MINI USA continues with three trims: Signature, Signature Plus, and Iconic. Here is the short version: Signature is not basic. It includes the OLED display, modern driver assistance, and all the essentials. This is where the best value lives. Signature Plus adds comfort features many buyers want, but not everyone needs. Iconic bundles almost everything, but often adds cost without changing how the car actually drives. However this is the ONLY way to get the JCW Style which in turn is the only way to get shift paddles on your MINI Cooper If price matters, start with Signature and work up carefully. If driving engagement matters, jump straight to Iconic and check the JCW Style box. However be warned, you might have a Cooper S that’s priced at JCW levels. The minimum to get the JCW Style would be $39,350 while the base JCW itself costs $38,900. While you’ll have a little more equipment on your Iconic equipped Cooper S, you might second guess that decision down the road. Buying Advice and Bottom Line for US Buyers The 2026 MINI Cooper rewards buyers who know exactly what they want and penalizes those who simply move up trims or body styles without thinking it through. Prices are higher than they used to be, but the lineup is also clearer, which makes smart choices easier if you resist the temptation to overbuy. For most US buyers, the Cooper S remains the sweet spot but only if you’re careful with options. Once you begin to check the boxes and get to the Iconic level, take a look at the full JCW. Not only does it offer more performance but it holds it value better in the long run. If driving feel matters most, the F66 2-Door Hardtop is still the purest expression of the MINI formula. Drive it back to back with larger cars in the range and you’ll feel the difference. If you need a bit more space, the F65 Cooper S 4-Door Hardtop is your choice. Add the Iconic Trim and JCW Style and you have something close to a JCW with more doors, everyday usability with only a modest performance tradeoff. The Convertible is best approached as an emotional decision rather than a rational one. It costs more, weighs more, and returns lower fuel economy, but it delivers an experience the hardtops simply cannot. In our experience it’s the best convertible MINI has ever made and the upgrades on this new generation of MINIs suit the convertible particularly well. John Cooper Works models bring sharper responses and stronger performance with little downside other than price. If you can swing the cost, it’s hard to not want the full JCW. The bigger picture is this. The current generation of MINI Cooper, introduced in 2024, is now in its second full year on sale. The fundamentals are solid, and MINI USA’s small but meaningful tweaks for 2026 make the lineup easier to navigate than it was at launch. Buy the right body style, choose performance realistically, and avoid paying for features you do not need. Do that, and the 2026 MINI Cooper remains one of the most distinctive and enjoyable small cars you can buy in the United States. The post 2026 MINI Cooper Buying Guide: Pricing, Trims, and What to Buy appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

At CES 2026, the conversation around the future of the car shifted in a meaningful way. It was no longer about horsepower, range, or even design. It was about software. Not digital interfaces, but the underlying architecture that will define how cars drive, are updated, and experienced for decades. And within the BMW Group, this shift will directly shape the future of MINI. Speaking to MotorTrend, BMW technology chief Joachim Post made it clear that software is no longer treated as something layered on late in development. It is now foundational, on equal footing with the vehicle platform itself. The upcoming Neue Klasse models, beginning with the electric BMW iX3, are being developed from the ground up as software-defined vehicles. That matters for MINI because the next-generation electric MINI Countryman (and potentially the entire range) is expected to move to this same Neue Klasse foundation, bringing this strategy directly into the MINI lineup. This shift is not just about features. In a world shaped by trade tensions, supply chain volatility, and rapid advances in computing, BMW wants the ability to adapt without reengineering entire vehicles. The answer is decoupling software from hardware. For MINI, a global brand operating across multiple regulatory and market environments, that flexibility is critical. To get there BMW is building a flexible software stack that can run across multiple hardware platforms. Whether processors come from Qualcomm, Samsung, Infineon, or others becomes less important than ensuring the same core software behaves consistently across regions. As more MINIs move to Neue Klasse based EVs, this approach helps maintain a cohesive experience no matter what the model, where it’s build or where it’s sold. This architecture also makes over-the-air updates (OTRs) even more powerful. With this new architecture that BMW is rolling out, other updates can go further by refining driving behavior, improving efficiency, enhancing safety systems, as well as adding new capabilities years after purchase. Artificial intelligence will also play a central role. BMW will soon roll-out deep integration of Amazon’s next-generation Alexa Plus. This is not voice control as a novelty, but conversational, contextual AI designed to manage tasks and services more naturally. For MINI, the challenge will be making this feel helpful and intuitive rather than overbearing. Of course none of this matters if the car is difficult to use and the tech overly complex. Post acknowledged that not every customer wants complexity or constant interaction. The challenge is not building advanced software, but making it intuitive and at times invisible in relation to the organic driving experience. Our Take: Why This Matters for MINI BMW’s advantage in the software-defined era is not speed, but discipline. Rather than chasing consumer tech trends, they’ve focused on building a flexible digital foundation while preserving reliability, usability, and driving integrity. Early reviews of the first Neue Klasse vehicle, the iX3 seem to prove that out. As MINI prepares to base future models, including the next electric Countryman and potentially much of the broader range, on Neue Klasse, that discipline matters. A critical enabler is BMW’s new Heart of Joy processing units. By consolidating vehicle control, driving dynamics, and key software functions into a small number of high-performance computers, BMW enables the responsiveness and integration needed to make software central to the driving experience. While often discussed in the context of performance models like the forthcoming BMW iM3, this same foundation will underpin future MINIs. For MINI, the move to Neue Klasse is about more than electrification. It is about unlocking a better experience in terms of driving and simply living with a car. It may sound sacrilegious, but with this tech onboard, the next generation electric MINIs may actually deliver more of what made the R50 era MINIs so special through software as much as hardware. The post How Software Will Shape the Driving Experience of Future MINI Coopers appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Последние наблюдения: С 07.01 не могу воспроизвести этот баг. Всё, что изменилось - заправил до полного бака (до этого оставалась примерно треть). Продолжаю наблюдение)

Форумчане привет! Помогите советом где искать причину, пожалуйста. Есть R60 S бензиновый 184 л.с. При запуске двигателя (и стд. способом и дистанционно), не сразу, а именно через примерно 2 мин начинается сильный металлический свист в из под капота. Все на холостом ходу, машина не в движении. Похоже, что из правой части двигателя. Лечится/убирается этот свист очень легко - нужно один раз нажать на педаль газа на половину ее хода - и всё, свист пропадает. При движении никакого свиста нет. Воспроизводится часто, но не всегда. Системности особой не нашел. Но, чаще всего воспроизводится после короткой (15-20 мин.) поездки и последующей стоянки авто на протяжении 1.5-2 часов. Но в сервисе воспроизвести не смогли)) - "Генеральский эффект" в чистом виде)) Аккум. новый (вообще новый), натяжение ремней в сервисе проверили. Ошибок никаких не считывается. Учитывая, что 100%-но лечится нажатием на педаль газа, может как-то связано с дроссельной заслонкой... Но в интернетах не нашел ничего о такой поломке, таких симптомах.

MINI finished 2025 on a positive note in the U.S., posting full-year growth despite a sharp slowdown at the end of the year. On the strength of a largely refreshed lineup, MINI USA reported total sales of 28,749 vehicles in 2025, an increase of 9.3% over the 26,299 units sold in 2024. That momentum did not fully carry into the final months of the year. Fourth-quarter sales totaled 6,887 vehicles, down 21.3% compared to Q4 2024. Still, the broader picture shows a brand in the middle of a meaningful reset that is beginning to resonate with buyers. A Year Defined by Full Inventory The story of MINI in 2025 was not about incentives or short-term spikes. It was about product. The arrival of the new Cooper and the latest-generation Countryman fundamentally changed MINI’s showroom mix, giving dealers modern hardware to sell after several years of aging models. That impact was clear early. Q1 sales rose as the new lineup gained traction, setting the stage for a strong spring. By Q2, MINI posted a 29% year-over-year increase, driven primarily by demand for the new Cooper and Countryman. Momentum continued into Q3, where sales surged again as availability improved and consumer awareness caught up with the product overhaul. By the time MINI entered the final quarter, much of that initial launch demand had already been pulled forward. Low Cooper Sales And the Manual Transmission One factor clearly weighing on Hardtop performance, particularly the two door model, is the absence of a manual transmission. For years, the two door Hardtop served as the spiritual core of the MINI brand, and a disproportionate share of its buyers were enthusiasts who specifically sought out a manual. With the current generation moving to an automatic only lineup in the U.S., MINI effectively removed a key emotional and mechanical differentiator from its most iconic model. The result is not just fewer sales (21% down for the year), but a shift in who the car appeals to. While the new two door Hardtop is objectively quicker, more refined, and better equipped, it no longer speaks as directly to the purist audience that historically kept that model buoyant, especially in down market years. Why Q4 Fell Back The Q4 decline looks dramatic on paper, but it comes with context. MINI was coming off a strong late-2024 period, creating a tough comparison. At the same time, the brand was managing ongoing transitions, including model changeovers, limited Clubman availability as the nameplate winds down, and a market increasingly crowded with new competitors. Looking at the numbers by model helps explain the dynamic. The Countryman remained MINI’s volume leader for the quarter, but even it saw a year-over-year dip in Q4. Hardtop models were also down as early demand for the new Cooper cooled after a strong mid-year run. In other words, Q4 looks less like a collapse and more like a pause. YearMINI U.S. DeliveriesChange vs Prior Year201366,502 —201456,112 –15.6% 201558,514 +4.3% 201652,030 –11.1% 201747,105 –9.5% 201843,684 –7.3% 201936,092 –17.4% 202028,138 –22.4% 202129,930 +6.4% 202229,504 –1.4% 202333,497 +13.5%202426,299 –21.5%202528,749+9.3% The Bigger Picture Stepping back, 2025 reads as a rebuilding year that worked. MINI reversed its recent downward trend, posted solid full-year growth, and successfully reintroduced itself to buyers with a lineup that finally feels current again. With the Cooper and Countryman now fully established, MINI heads into 2026 with a clearer foundation than it has had in years. The fourth quarter may have softened, but the year as a whole suggests the comeback is real, even if it remains a work in progress. The post MINI USA Ends 2025 Up 9.3% Despite Cooper Sales Down appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The R56 MINI sits at a crossroads in the brand’s modern history. Today’s MINIs rank among the most reliable small cars you can buy, but the R56 arrived before the brand fully found its footing in long-term durability. In the right spec and with the right care, it delivers a level of engagement that still defies logic for a small hatchback. In the wrong example, it becomes a rolling reminder of why knowledge matters more than mileage. This buyer’s guide exists to help you make the right call, showing you what to avoid, what to prioritize, and how to find an R56 worth owning long term. MINI 50 Mayfair and MINI 50 Camden R56: A Crucial Chapter for MINI The R56 MINI Hatch entered production in late 2006 for the 2007 model year and remained on sale through 2013. It replaced the R50 and R53 models and represented MINI’s first major reset under full BMW stewardship. Unlike the first generation, which leaned heavily on charm and simplicity, the R56 aimed to be more refined, more efficient, and more globally competitive. It introduced new engines, new electronics, and a more mature interior, while retaining the handling DNA that defined the brand. The R56 was also a commercial success. Hundreds of thousands were sold globally over its production run, making it one of MINI’s most important models by volume. It broadened the brand’s appeal beyond enthusiasts, particularly in North America and Europe, and laid the groundwork for the larger and more premium MINIs that followed. However, that success came with growing pains. The R56 is the generation where MINI learned some hard lessons about complexity, durability, and long-term ownership. Especially when it comes to engines. Where BMW partnered with Chrysler on the Tritec for the R50 generation, they turned to PSA for the second generation MINIs. Where the Tritec was an iron block and relatively crude in its tech, the Prince family of engines (as they were known internally) relied on loads of new tech, an aluminum block, and ditched the iconic supercharger in the S and JCW models for a more modern twin-scroll turbo. On paper, it all sounded great. But in practice, things were more complicated. MINI Cooper – Model Year 2010 What to Look for on Any R56 Before breaking the R56 down by model year or engine, there are several ownership themes that apply to every example, regardless of trim. Transmission and Drivetrain Manual transmissions (Getrag) are generally durable across the range Clutch life varies by driving style but failures are predictable and straightforward to repair Automatic transmissions (Aisin) are more hit or miss, especially in early cars Hesitation, rough shifts, and premature wear are common if fluid changes were skipped Manuals remain the safer long-term choice Driveshafts, CV joints, and engine mounts are wear items, not design flaws Vibration or knocking under load usually points to deferred maintenance The 2010 MINI Cooper S Chassis, Suspension, and Steering Steering feel and chassis balance are standout strengths of the R56 but it comes with downsides. Suspension components wear faster than average for a small car Common wear points include control arm bushings, dampers, and wheel bearings JCW models and cars on larger wheels accelerate suspension wear Expect suspension refreshes as mileage climbs and budget accordingly The 2011 MINI Cooper Interior The 2010 MINI John Cooper Works MINI Connected The 2009 MINI Cooper Interior MINI Connected Interior Quality and Age-Related Issues Interior design looks premium when new but durability is inconsistent Soft-touch plastics commonly peel, become sticky, or wear through Problem areas include door pulls, armrests, center console trim, and switches Window switches, climate controls, and early infotainment systems can fail Sagging headliners are common, especially in hot climates or outdoor-stored cars Most interior issues are cosmetic but should influence pricing Rust and Corrosion Reality Unlike the R50 and R53, rust is not a widespread structural issue on the R56. Corrosion tends to appear in predictable areas rather than across the body. Most common locations include the rear hatch around the license plate lights and rear wheel arches in salt-heavy climates The 2008 MINI Cooper Pre-LCI vs Pos-LCI: What to Know MINI (like BMW) will refresh its cars generally once during a generation. In BMW-speak it’s referred to an LCI or “Life Cycle Impulse”. The Pre-LCI R56 models span roughly 2007 through 2010. Not surprisingly MINI made numerous improvements both mechanically and stylistically in its 2011 LCI. Pre-LCI cars are where most of the known issues originate and ground zero are the engines. Build quality is less consistent, electronics are more temperamental, and engine problems are more likely if maintenance was not strictly adhered to (which we’ll get to in the next section) For standard Cooper models, faults tend to be manageable. For Cooper S models, problems can escalate quickly if neglected. Buyers should be especially alert for cold-start noises, rough idle, warning lights, and evidence of deferred servicing. A cheap pre-LCI Cooper S is rarely a bargain. The 2011 MINI Cooper S LCI R56: A Turning Point with Caveats The 2011 Life Cycle Impulse marked a quiet but critical turning point for the R56. Visually, the LCI introduced revised headlights and taillights, updated bumpers (with functional brake ducts), and refreshed wheel designs. Inside, MINI revised instrument graphics, lighting, and switchgear, and improved infotainment options. More importantly, MINI addressed several mechanical weaknesses. Software calibration improved, timing components were revised, and overall drivability became more consistent. LCI cars feel more cohesive and better resolved in daily use. However, the LCI did not fix everything, and not all models benefited equally. Some known issues persisted, and engine updates arrived unevenly across the range, something buyers often misunderstand. Revised 2010 MINI Cooper S (N18) Engine Engine Evolution Across the R56 Range: What to Buy and What to Verify Engine choice matters more than mileage, trim level, or cosmetic condition when buying an R56. The difference between a good ownership experience and an expensive one often comes down to which engine sits under the hood. Cooper Models: N12 and N16 Standard Cooper models use naturally aspirated engines and are, by a wide margin, the most reliable R56 variants. N12 engines are found in pre-LCI cars. They are mechanically simple and generally durable, but buyers should listen for timing chain noise on cold start and check for oil leaks around the valve cover. N16 engines arrived with the LCI and brought revised timing components, improved oil control, and updated engine management. These engines are the safest bet in the entire R56 lineup and tolerate normal use and maintenance far better than earlier turbocharged options. If long-term reliability is the priority, this is where to start. MINI Cooper S w/JCW Running Kit (N18) engine (03/2011) Cooper S Models: N14 vs N18 Cooper S models require far more scrutiny. N14 engines are found in pre-LCI Cooper S models and are the source of most R56 horror stories. Common issues include timing chain stretch, high-pressure fuel pump failures, carbon buildup from direct injection, turbo oil supply problems, and cooling system failures. A neglected N14 can become expensive very quickly. N18 engines arrived with the LCI and represent a meaningful step forward. MINI revised the timing system, improved crankcase ventilation, updated fueling logic, and addressed several heat management issues. While still requiring diligent maintenance, the N18 is far more tolerant of real-world driving and ownership. John Cooper Works Models: Read the Fine Print John Cooper Works models add another layer of complexity. Early factory JCW hatchbacks used a JCW-specific version of the N14 engine with stronger internals and upgraded hardware. While better suited to hard driving than the standard N14, these engines still share the same underlying vulnerabilities related to timing, fueling, and heat management. Critically, JCW hatchbacks did not receive the N18 engine at the start of the LCI. From 2011 through early 2012, facelift JCW models continued to use the N14. The JCW finally transitioned to a JCW-specific N18 for the 2013 model year. This delayed update is one of the most misunderstood aspects of the R56 and explains why some facelift JCWs still carry early-generation risks. Buyers must verify engine codes rather than assuming all LCI cars are improved. Buyers should actively seek out N18-powered Cooper S and JCW models and treat N14 cars with caution, regardless of price. But for the ultimate reliability, the R56 Cooper is likely your best bet. Why Engines Matter More Than Anything Else Two R56s with identical mileage and condition can offer completely different ownership experiences depending on engine type. Verifying the engine code should be one of the first steps in evaluating any R56, especially for Cooper S and JCW models. Simply put, knowing which engine you are buying matters far more than how clean the car looks or how little it has been driven. MINI Cooper John Cooper Works (03/2011) Our Take The R56 is a car that rewards informed buyers and punishes careless ones. In the right configuration, with the right engine and service history, it remains one of the most engaging and characterful small cars of its era. In the wrong example, it can quickly become a financial headache. If reliability is the priority, a later Cooper with the N16 engine is the safest choice. If performance matters, an N18 Cooper S strikes the best balance of speed and durability. JCW models offer peak character but demand the most diligence. The R56 tells the story of MINI growing up in real time. Know where the lessons were learned, buy accordingly, and it can still be a deeply satisfying car to own. The post The Ultimate R56 MINI Cooper Buyer’s Guide (2007-2013) appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI, and BMW more broadly, have been smarter than most automakers in their expansion into electric vehicles. Yes, there have been missteps. But the key to their enviable position today is a dual EV and ICE product strategy. What many people do not realize is that it almost did not happen this way. This is the never-told story of how MINI nearly killed the petrol Cooper in its race to electrify the brand. In 2019, MINI was deep into planning its next generation of products. At the time, much of the world appeared to be moving rapidly toward electrification, especially in dense urban markets. That reality prompted an obvious internal question. If MINI was an urban, youthful brand, why not lead the charge into an all-electric future? According to multiple sources, MINI made the preliminary decision to move all Cooper models to an all-electric platform manufactured in both Asia and the UK. The J01 and its derivatives would form the foundation for every future Cooper variant as well as the Aceman. Meanwhile, because it could easily share platforms and components with small BMWs, the Countryman would continue to be offered with both internal combustion and electric powertrains. Under that roadmap, the iconic internal-combustion F56 generation would end meaning the MINI model line-up would consist of an electric Cooper range (plus the Aceman) and the Countryman offered as both petrol and EV. At this point, the F66 petrol Cooper was not even under consideration. The brand was prepared to sunset the petrol hatch entirely. How The All Electric Cooper Plans Were Derailed That idealism quickly hit a brick wall of reality. In key regions like North America and parts of Europe, there was significant internal pushback. Petrol Coopers still accounted for a large share of sales and, as good as EVs can be, they rarely deliver the qualities many customers associate with the Cooper experience. Even more problematic was the state of charging infrastructure, which was severely lacking in large markets like the US, Canada, and Australia. Under that pressure, MINI executives went back to engineering and design teams and asked a new question. Could the F56 be updated into something fresh enough to live alongside the electric J01 rather than be replaced by it? The answer was yes. But in typical German form, another facelift wouldn’t suffice. Instead engineers and designers went to work reengineering and refining the F56 in ways they had wanted to for years. The new F66 (left) and the previous generation F56 (right) From F56 to F66: What Changed Although the F66 shares its underlying UKL1 chassis with the F56, the changes are deeper than most people realize. Rather than just tweaking bumpers, MINI engineers re-worked almost every key surface and system to modernize and future-proof the petrol hatch. Dimensions & Packaging Wider stance: The F66 is noticeably wider than the F56 (about 77.6 inches vs 75.9 inches), thanks in part to a wider track and bigger tyres that improve stability and road feel. Slightly re-shaped body: Front and rear overhangs were trimmed, giving the new car a slightly different silhouette, shorter overall with a more modern look. Boot gains volume: Even cargo space saw a modest bump through clever packaging tweaks. The fact that nearly every exterior panel (except roof, doors and glass) is new shows how thorough this redesign was. The F66 MINI Cooper JCW Engine and Drivetrain Tweaks Rather than simply carrying over the F56’s engines, the F66 introduced revised powerplants and transmissions: Petrol Cooper and Cooper S models received power bumps — for instance, the base Cooper up to ~155 hp, Cooper S to ~200 hp. Every petrol model is now paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission (DCT) instead of the older automatics, sharpening throttle response and acceleration feel. In JCW trim, torque jumps meaningfully even if peak horsepower stays similar, changing how the car feels on the road. The sum of these changes gives the F66 petrol lineup a more refined, confident character — especially in mid-range driveability — compared with the older F56. The F66 MINI Cooper JCW interior Interior Revolution Where the outside feels evolutionary, the inside feels revolutionary: MINI lifted the entire dashboard concept and infotainment system from the all-new electric J01 and dropped it into the F66. The centerpiece is a large 9.4-inch circular OLED touchscreen running the new MINI Operating System 9, far more advanced than the F56 system. Physical buttons are pared back to essentials, creating a minimalist cabin. This digital-first cockpit was a key part of selling the F66 internally, it let the petrol Cooper feel modern in a world where EVs often set the tech bar. The electric J01 MINI Cooper Why It Was Worth Saving From a purely strategic standpoint, letting the petrol Cooper die would have saved hundreds of millions in development costs and accelerated MINI’s push toward electrification. But from a brand, cultural, and market perspective, killing the petrol Cooper at that moment would have created a dangerous gap between MINI’s heritage and its future, one that neither enthusiasts nor mainstream buyers were prepared to cross. The F66 exists because MINI chose pragmatism over ideology. It preserves the internal-combustion Cooper while layering in enough design, technology, and performance updates to feel relevant in a rapidly changing market. Fast forward to today and that decision looks remarkably prescient. As EV adoption cools and consumers hesitate to fully commit, MINI finds itself in a rare position of strength. While others scramble to course-correct, MINI already has the flexibility many brands now wish they had built in from the start. The post How BMW Almost Killed The Combustion MINI Cooper appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article