DimON

I’m not even sure what to say here, folks, to be honest with you. Last night Gabe and I pulled more than 25 comments from the MINI Super Bowl commercial post before just closing comments all together. I’ve seen some sniping and name calling on MotoringFile before (and been on the receiving end of it), but I’ve never seen anything quite like what I read through last night. So, I have a few things to say this morning. First, an apology for not moderating that thread more closely. It got out of hand and Gabe and I didn’t have our eye on it until it got so bad that people were actually writing in on the Contact page. You would think that on a site full of MINI fans, we wouldn’t have to moderate every single comment moment by moment, but it looks like sometimes that’s the case. Either way, I pulled more nasty comments last night on this one post than the whole time I’ve been Editor here at MotoringFile and I really wish I would have gotten to them sooner. Second, let’s clarify once and for all what is and isn’t acceptable in the comments. We want to see more of this: Please have an opinion about MINI stuff Please disagree with me and Gabe Please disagree with each other Like things Dislike things Be passionate Be ornery Be skeptical Be enthusiastic enthusiasts Defend the automatic transmission Love your clutch Hate the very idea of the Countryman Passionately endorse your R56 Cooper All of these things aren’t just acceptable, they’re encouraged. I didn’t delete any comments just because the commenter didn’t like the ad. Hell, I didn’t like it either. However, we don’t want any of this: Trolling (leaving comments with the sole purpose of pushing people’s buttons) Thread hijacking (the R53 is great, but that has nothing to do with this post about the Countryman) Name calling Ad hominem — This is the big one. Disagree with ideas and even specific people all you like, but let’s stop attacking the author his or herself just because we disagree with them. Defamation — This includes race, orientation, geography, automatic transmission preferences, politics, pizza preferences, etc. We’re all on the same team here, folks. We’re better than this. We’re MINI enthusiasts. This is not YouTube. This isn’t a free-for-all message board. This is MotoringFile. This site is one of the reasons I bought a MINI in the first place and I’m thrilled to be a part of it now in the Editor role. MF wouldn’t be what it is without our readers and yes, our commenters. What I read in the comments for that post is nothing new, but it certainly hit a new low. We’re better than this. Let’s make that the last time people are nasty to each other on MotoringFile. Let’s be kind to each other, even when we don’t agree. Let’s remember that we’re not truly anonymous. Let’s remember that we’re all fans, we’re all people and we all deserve respect. Let’s love our cars and this brand. Let’s motor. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

News from MotoringFile like we do. Nathaniel fills in for Gabe this week to help us sort out news of the week. We clear out some Ask Chad questions and bring a new sponsor in that we think you will like; GearHeadApps.com. They are reviewing iPhone apps that appeal to gear heads! We did talk about alternative fueled vehicles quite a bit, especially the electric MINIs and possibility of a plug-in hybrid coming. And, watch for White Roof Radio to be streaming in MINI Connected very soon (we hope)! Finally, if you want to hear the discussion about automatic vs. manual, check out the latest BimmerCast. Download | WRR @ iTunes | 30.3MB | 1:06:13 </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

We’re seeing a trend lately of not just more custom MINIs, but MINIs in full vinyl wraps instead of custom paint. The latest is this offering from vinyl shop CoverEFX. Taking its cues from Louis Vuitton, the gold and leather trimmed JCW hatch isn’t just about achieving a particular look. Two performance packages are available, bumping the engine output to 232 hp and 249 hp respectively. While the car’s style certainly isn’t my bag, I think we can all appreciate horsepower. No word yet on whether it travels through time. More photos after the break. [source: WorldCarFans] </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

The full 60 second version can be viewed after the jump. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

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Media post has a quick write-up on what to expect with MINI’s first superbowl ad. Perhaps unsurprisingly it’s the conclusion to the monster truck spot that’s been all over the web and MotoringFile for the past few months. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Thanks to everyone who sent this in. The 2002 launch of the MINI in the USA brought us some of the most interesting and unexpected advertising the automotive world has seen before or since. Without the budget for big TV ad buys, CP+B focused on a blitz of print, outdoor and environmental advertising. One of the more noteworthy examples was this stunt involving a Cooper on the roof of a Ford Excursion in NYC: This not-so-subtle commentary on America’s obsession with SUVs was pretty bold, but it also said something deeper. Placing the smallest car you could buy on the roof of the largest SUV available made an audacious statement about what driving fun really was. Sure, that SUV may haul a lot of gear, but that MINI sure looks like a good time on four wheels. Eight years later, MINI has an SUV of its own. This move has caused no small amount of controversy here on MotoringFile. For a brand that introduced itself to America under the mantra of “The SUV backlash starts now”, producing a crossover seems to some like a betrayal of the brand’s personality. Personally, I don’t see it this way, and MINI’s latest environmental advertising stunt involving a Countryman and a classic Mini perfectly demonstrates my thoughts on the subject. In my opinion, the genius of MINI’s original SUV stunt was about demonstrating how to do more with less. It was as much about how needlessly large American vehicles had become as it was about how cleverly small the MINI hatch really is. MINI doesn’t build a small car for the sake of being small, but rather because if you’re very, very clever you can do a lot with a very small car. You can go fast. You can go pretty far on a gallon of gas. You can turn really sharp. Your car can look really cool and be genuinely nice in its details. You can haul a surprisingly useful load in a pretty small boot. Personally, I don’t think this is a formula for a single car. I think this is a philosophy MINI could apply to any segment. I think you could have a MINI passenger airliner that fit this philosophy of small but smart. I think the Countryman is actually the ultimate backlash against the SUV — against the notion that I need a huge, lumbering, inefficient vehicle to haul people and gear. Where the R50 fit snugly on the roof of that Ford Excursion, look at how the classic Mini overflows the top of the Countryman. Beyond the tongue-in-cheek, self referencing nature of this stunt, I think it makes a big statement about what you can do with a small car and that’s what MINI is all about. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Historically we haven’t minced words when it comes to the factory “MINI aero-kit”. We’ve never been fond of the look. And apparently we weren’t alone. Even if MINI didn’t see the negative comments on it over the years on MF they have now seen the numbers. Yes sales have been much less than anticipated and MINI has made a change. Starting with March production the “MINI Aero-kit” (as it was confusingly known) will be replaced at the factory by the JCW Aero-kit. What does this mean for those looking to buy a MINI? For starters the JCW Aero-kit should get less expensive. Currently the “MINI aerokit” can be had for $1250 via the factory. The JCW aerokit lists for $1961 before painting and installation. It also means a better looking MINI. But I guess that’s obvious right? There’s no word on how (if it all) this will change the JCW model as we know it. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Nay-sayers against electric vehicles are convinced that cold weather will sap the batteries of all their usefulness. New Jersey resident Tom Moloughney and his MINI E have something to say about that. Tom has logged almost 50,000 miles in his MINI E, commuting around 2500 miles a month. That includes plenty of cold slogs to the office. Tom’s motoring log shows only about a 5% loss in battery power due to frigid weather, not the 50% The Washington Posts‘ Charles Lane recently speculated for EVs. That, in a prototype vehicle without any supplementary battery warming tech. The future for EVs looks bright, even in the great white north. [source: Engadget] </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Official Release: The annually presented GOOD DESIGN Award for 2010 went to a full quartet of vehicles and concepts: the BMW 5 Series Sedan, the MINI Countryman, the BMW S 1000 RR and the BMW Concept 6. This most prestigious of international honours yet again recognised the exceptional standard of BMW Group Design. The prizewinners’ products will be exhibited as part of the annual GOOD DESIGN SHOW to be held in June 2011 at the Chicago Athenaeum. The world’s oldest and most distinguished design award was called into being in Chicago in 1950 by the architects Eero Saarinen, Charles and Ray Eames and Edgar Kaufmann Jr., and is presented to this day by the Chicago Athenaeum and the European Centre for Architecture, Art Design and Urban Studies. For six decades now, this coveted prize is conferred on designers and manufacturers for particularly innovative and visionary products, concepts and ideas that reach beyond the bounds of ordinary product design. Not the least of its aims is to raise public awareness of contemporary design and related sustainability issues. The selection of award winners is based on the criteria of function and aesthetic as originally laid down by Saarinen and Eames, and is complemented by an environmental stipulation for sustainable design, in keeping with the times. In 2010, an independent jury of design experts and architects made their selection from a record number of submissions from 37 different nations, and picked out more than 500 product and graphic designs to receive the GOOD DESIGN Award. The MINI Countryman is the most expansive interpretation of the MINI design language. As the first MINI to feature four doors and measure more than four metres in length, the MINI Countryman’s typical MINI design leaves no doubt as to its kinship with the brand. Within the product family, the newcomer stands out with its striking exterior that features faintly pentagonal headlights, a new-style “helmet” roof and three-dimensional, vertically aligned rear lights. The interior design likewise accentuates the practicality and robust character of the MINI Countryman. The design of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan eloquently translates the vehicle’s attributes into an authentic formal language. Exuding sheer presence and stylish elegance, the Sedan’s design expresses its premium quality and outstanding ride comfort, while its sporty handling is reflected in the dynamic lines of its body and an overall look suggesting athleticism. The superlative aesthetics of the new BMW 5 Series Sedan are further embodied in its perfectly balanced proportions and precisely finished details. The highly dynamic design of the BMW S 1000 RR displays its racing bike heritage in a frank and authentic manner. Its flat and sportive front-end design features the hallmark asymmetrical BMW headlight arrangement that reiterates the look of the endurance racers (24-hour events). The BMW Concept 6 design study persuaded the jury with its highly contrasting composition: while the lower half of the motorcycle reveals its mechanical underpinnings, the sensually tactile surfaces invite some close interaction with the driver. The two levels are fused by an organically designed air flow system. The unique quality of BMW Group Design has been repeatedly recognised in the past by the GOOD DESIGN Award. In 2008, for example, the award went to the BMW 3 Series Convertible, the BMW 1 Series Coupé and the MINI Cooper S Clubman, as well as four BMW motorcycles. 2007 saw the new BMW X5, the BMW 3 Series Coupé, the new MINI and a further three BMW motorcycles win the GOOD DESIGN Award. And it isn’t the first time the BMW 5 Series Sedan has been crowned: its outstanding design won over the jury of the internationally renowned red dot awards in 2010, secured the coveted iF Product Design Award in 2011, and – with the 2011 Design Award of the Federal Republic of Germany – captured the country’s most prestigious prize for exceptional product design. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

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No this isn’t the first time we’ve read an official press release on this topic. But now BMW and PSA feel compelled to talk a bit more about their plans. While some of these goals in may sound a bit lofty, the simpler view is that two companies are coming together to share a hybrid powerplant. More specifically we believe the powerplant will be based on the four cylinder Prince engine (we’d guess the Cooper model). BMW and PSA have tasked two of their largest suppliers (Bosch and Getrag) to carry out the engineering and design of the hybrid system. And yes it’s destined for the US market. We expect the first fruits of this agreement to show up in Countryman and Countryman based models around the 2014 model year. Official Release: The BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citroën have decided to enter into a new phase of their collaboration, by signing an agreement to set up a 50-50 equity joint venture named BMW Peugeot Citroën Electrification. The agreement was signed on February 1st by Norbert Reithofer, Chairman of the Board of Management of BMW AG, and Philippe Varin, Chairman of the Managing Board of PSA Peugeot Citroën. In October 2010, the two companies had signed a Memorandum of Understanding designed to expand their existing cooperation to hybrid systems. BMW Peugeot Citroën Electrification will focus on developing and producing hybrid components, including battery packs, E-machines, generators, power electronics and chargers, while also developing software for hybrid systems. Joint research and development, production and component purchasing will leverage significant economies of scale for both companies.First and foremost, this initiative of BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citroën aims to develop standard hybrid components for the electrification of their vehicle ranges. Its goal is also to create an open European platform on those technologies that will help the European industry to structure itself in the field of hybridization. To that extent, the joint venture will both integrate suppliers by outsourcing development work and could sell hybrid components to other companies beside its two shareholders. Subject to approval by the relevant competition authorities, the joint venture is expected to launch its operations in the second quarter of 2011. The new hybrid components will equip both partners’ vehicles from 2014 onwards. The joint venture’s management, as well as the rest of its workforce, will be drawn from employees of both companies. Additional external staff will also be hired. The key management positions will be equally shared among the two companies. Wolfgang Güllich, currently responsible for BMW Group’s Purchasing Strategy, will be appointed Chief Executive Officer of BMW Peugeot Citroën Electrification, and Jean Leflour, currently Director Customer Satisfaction and Quality Planning at PSA Peugeot Citroën, will be appointed Managing Director. “This cooperative venture will enable us to achieve significant economies of scale in the field of electrification. It also represents an important step on the road to sustainable mobility,” said Norbert Reithofer. “With this joint venture, we are sure to develop and expand our expertise and to build a European leader in the field of automotive hybrid innovation,” noted Philippe Varin.The BMW Group and PSA Peugeot Citroën have been successfully cooperating on engines for several years, building together more than 1.8 million units from 2006 to 2010. In February 2010, the two companies agreed to develop the next generation of their jointly designed 4-cylinder petrol engine, which will also meet EU 6 requirements. The joint engine is currently built into a number of MINI, Peugeot and Citroën brand models. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

We scooped this last week and now MINI is officially taking the wraps off of the latest special edition MINI. The Hampton takes some of the best of other models and combines them with a few new key pieces to create something unique on the Clubman. The model will be available starting with March production and should run through August production. Official Release: As a pioneer and one-off in the premium small car segment, MINI offers an options range unmatched in its variety to allow customers to configure their car exactly how they want it. Customers can choose from a large selection of exterior paint finishes, light-alloy wheels, upholstery variants, interior trim and Colour Lines, MINI-specific options such as mirror caps and graphics, and numerous other optional extras and accessories, to make every MINI a one-off creation designed in detail to reflect their own individual style. From spring 2011 MINI will open up another new avenue when it comes to the ultra-stylish customisation of the brand’s cars. The MINI Yours range of products will feature exclusive design options delivered from the factory for the exterior and interior of the current range of MINI models. Among the features of the MINI Yours range are unusual paint finishes, upholstery variants and interior colours, stylishly configured equipment packages and limited editions based on the now four model series in the MINI family. (Full gallery after the break) An exclusive variant of the MINI Clubman takes centre stage for the premiere of MINI Yours. The MINI Clubman Hampton special-edition model embodies the character of MINI Yours – underpinned by uncompromising premium quality and design cues typical of the brand – in a highly concentrated form. Its design features reference both the brand’s British heritage and the special edition’s unique designation, inspired by the southwest London suburb. At the same time, the first limited-edition variant of the MINI Clubman continues a tradition established by successful editions of earlier models. For example, the Park Lane, Seven, Checkmate and Sidewalk editions of the MINI offered customers particularly neat ways to satisfy their desire for exclusive configurations. The MINI Clubman Hampton is painted in the Reef Blue metallic shade developed specially for this model. The roof and surrounds for the special edition’s rear doors are silver, as are the wheels and Colour Line. The exterior colours Pepper White, Midnight Black and Eclipse Grey can be specified as an option, while Black and Reef Blue are available as contrast colours for the roof and C-pillars. The light-alloy wheels in Twin Blade Spoke design can be ordered in silver or black with a dark red trim ring. The headlights come with black reflectors if the optional xenon units are specified. A logo on the B-pillar and “Hampton” lettering on the side indicator surrounds and radiator grille provide subtle references to the car’s exclusive status. The “MINI 50 Hampton” lettering on the door entry strips recalls the introduction five decades ago of an additional bodywork version of the classic MINI, which today ranks as the historic predecessor of the MINI Clubman. The interior of the MINI Clubman Hampton also boasts a very distinctive style. An “H” on the seat tags, red edging and orange contrast stitching are the identifying features of the black Lounge Leather seats. The anthracite-coloured roof liner, the likewise anthracite dials of the rev counter and the speedometer on the Centre Speedo also contribute to the model’s special ambience. The Centre Speedo is bordered by a trim ring in matt dark red, like that on the wheels. The Chilli Pack is also included in the MINI Clubman Hampton, adding items such as a sports leather steering wheel, foglamps, automatic climate control, an on-board computer, a light package, a storage package and special velour floor mats in the style of the special-edition model. This exclusive special edition will be available for the MINI Cooper Clubman, MINI Cooper S Clubman, MINI Cooper D Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Clubman. Production of the MINI Clubman Hampton will be limited to one year. Full Gallery [show as slideshow] [View with PicLens] </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Today MINI officially takes the wraps off of one of the worst kept secrets in the companies history; the Cooper SD. We’ve seen the engine and hear about the car as far back as 2009. Today we get the official word that this 2.0L engine (the largest ever offered in a MINI) will be available starting in March of this year across the entire line-up. With a 143 hp on tap and an 225 lb-ft of torque, the Cooper SD does 0-60 well under 8 seconds while still getting around 54 mpg US. Of course the US market won’t be getting this version of the MINI (reasoning detailed here) but will show up in most markets around the world. Official Release: Just a few months after the market launch of the new MINI family and the MINI Countryman, the start of 2011 has brought another wave of driving fun and individuality in the premium brand’s hallmark style. The MINI Cooper SD, due for launch in spring 2011, will be the most powerful diesel variant yet in the MINI line-up. The new 2.0-litre engine developing 105 kW/143 hp – available for the MINI, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible and MINI Countryman – will drum up even more power yet burn extremely small amounts of fuel. Motor sport enthusiasts will welcome the new John Cooper Works Pack option also on offer for the MINI and MINI Convertible. Furthermore, the customary selection of personalisation options available for drivers to configure their MINI in their own image has taken on even greater proportions. The newly developed MINI Yours product range offers a host of extremely attractive customisation options. The first ambassador of the exclusive and innovative MINI Yours style will be the MINI Clubman Hampton special edition. MINI Cooper SD: Impressive on the power, frugal at the pumps. The new MINI Cooper SD slots into the range above the MINI One D with 66 kW/90 hp and MINI Cooper D developing 82 kW/112 hp as the most powerful diesel MINI. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel unit produces maximum output of 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm. A stand-out characteristic of the new diesel is its mighty pulling power, which remains on tap even under heavy loads; maximum torque of 305 Newton metres (225 lb-ft) is available between 1,750 and 2,700 rpm. Add this to the excellent balance between output and fuel consumption familiar from the other models in the MINI family plus extraordinary power development for a four-cylinder engine, and the MINI Cooper SD has all the tools the sporty driver could ever need. In its basic construction, the new 2.0-litre diesel fits the same template as the 1.6-litre units fitted in the MINI One D and MINI Cooper D. Its all-aluminium crankcase helps to keep the weight of the engine as low as possible, while the turbocharger with variable intake geometry develops the right level of power at all engine speeds. The engine in the MINI Cooper SD has a model-specific and extremely powerful turbocharger controlled by the engine management system, while common-rail direct injection with solenoid-valve injectors positioned centrally in the cylinder head ensure that the fuel is fed in extremely precisely and efficiently. The injection system works with maximum pressure of 1,600 bar and ensures optimum mixture preparation in the combustion chamber. The new MINI Cooper SD is also fitted as standard with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology. In addition to the engine’s efficiency, features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display, Electric Power Steering and the need-based operation of ancillary components help to produce outstanding fuel economy for this output class. To ensure that its emissions are as clean as possible, the MINI Cooper SD is fitted with a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. No extra injections of fuel are required to clean the particulate filter. And, as with all current MINI models, the new diesel variants meet the EU5 exhaust emissions standard. Comfort levels on the move, meanwhile, are aided by the four-cylinder engine’s low vibrations and harmonious acoustic properties; here, the particularly sonorous soundtrack of the MINI Cooper SD unit when pushing on through higher revs lifts it above its two diesel stablemates. The 2.0-litre powerplant demonstrates its sporting credentials in the MINI Cooper SD with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). This outstanding level of efficiency is reflected in average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres (65.7 mpg imp or 54 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 114 grams per kilometre. The new MINI Cooper SD Clubman reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 8.6 seconds and also has a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). The average fuel economy of the MINI Cooper SD Clubman is 4.4 litres per 100 km (64.2 mpg imp or 53 US mpg), while CO2 emissions stand at 115 g/km. The MINI Cooper SD Convertible, meanwhile, highlights its sporting potential with a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 8.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its extra dose of driving fun combines with average fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 km (62.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km. In the MINI Countryman this extra-sporty diesel engine teams up with either front-wheel drive or the all-wheel-drive system MINI ALL4. The MINI Cooper SD Countryman sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.3 seconds, the MINI Cooper SD Countryman ALL4 in 9.4 seconds, on the way to top speeds of 198 and 195 km/h (123/121 mph) respectively. The front-wheel-drive MINI Cooper SD Countryman has fuel economy of 4.6 litres per 100 km, the all-wheel-drive variant achieves 4.9 litres per 100 km. CO2 emissions are 122 and 130 grams per kilometre respectively. The models fitted with the new diesel powerplant come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, whose ratios are tuned carefully to the engine’s performance characteristics to enable powerful and silky smooth acceleration. A ready-to-drive weight of 44.8 kilograms (98.7 lb) makes this the lightest gearbox of its kind. Added to which, it sets a new benchmark in the MINI segment with its short shift travel and impressively precise action. A six-speed automatic gearbox will also be available from launch as an option. Its exceptionally short shift times and direct “target gear” finding capability on downshifts also allow the automatic to enhance the sporting character of the MINI Cooper SD. The six-speed automatic will also be available for the MINI Cooper D, MINI Cooper D Clubman, MINI Cooper D Convertible and MINI Cooper D Countryman from spring 2011. In the interests of delivering the optimum combination of engine and gearbox, these models will also be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel unit. This variant matches the output and torque of the 1.6-litre engine in the model variants with manual gearbox. The MINI Cooper SD also uses model-specific design features to show off its sporting credentials. The most powerful diesel model in the range stands out – like the flagship petrol model, the MINI Cooper S – with its extra-large air intake in the front apron and an air scoop on the bonnet. Like the MINI Cooper S, it also displays its model identity in its side indicator surrounds (in its case with “SD” lettering) and has twin tailpipes positioned in the centre of the rear apron. The MINI Cooper SD, MINI Cooper SD Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman also come with an eye-catching roof spoiler. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Much like the M Sport packages from BMW M that’s offered on non M cars, JCW now has a ‘Pack” for non JCW models. The JCW Pack consists of the: JCW aerokit Challenge spoke wheels Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) Entry strips Sport steering wheel with red stitching But also importantly this signals the first time the JCW aerokit has been available from the factory. So that means JCW cars can now opt for this package to get the full look. In other JCW news MINI has officially released the update tuning kit for the Cooper S. HP is up to 200 (in UK trim) and torque remains at 199 lb-ft of torque due to the clutch and transmission not being rated for higher numbers. As before the tuning kit comes with an updated intake, exhaust and software. Finally JCW has released a new 18″ wheel for the R55, R56 and R57. The Cross Spoke Red Stripe (photo after the break) fits well within JCW’s new black and red motif and is the best looking JCW wheel (outside of the new R60 19″ wheels)we’ve ever seen from the brand. Official release and photos after the break. Official Release: A John Cooper Works Pack has now been developed for the MINI and MINI Convertible, offering components that give the cars a head-turning sporting allure – both technically and stylistically. The model-specific interior and exterior components optimise the handling of the MINI and ensure it delivers an impressive visual impact. The John Cooper Works Pack is due to be available from the second quarter of 2011 as a factory-fit option. Key to giving the cars fitted with the John Cooper Works Pack their imposing appearance is the aerodynamics package, which lends the front, rear and flanks of the MINI and MINI Convertible an undeniably sporting flavour. The black border around the lower part of the body is highlighted particularly clearly at the front and rear by a centrally positioned indentation. The inner section of the surrounds for the positioning lights or foglamps on the outer edges of the front apron feature horizontal slats. Plus, the radiator grille has the same honeycomb structure as the lower air intake. The side skirts continue the dynamic thread, curving inwards with a sweeping flourish and adding a stylised opening at the rear. As part of the aerodynamics package features, the powerfully formed rear apron includes prominent cut-outs at its outer edges which mimic the appearance of the positioning light and foglamp surrounds integrated into the front apron. The 17-inch weight-optimised light-alloy wheels in John Cooper Works Cross Spoke CHALLENGE design ensure the best possible contact with the road. Moreover, the John Cooper Works Pack comes with the traction mode DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) added to the standard-fitted stability system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control), as well as EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) – the electronically controlled locking function for the driven axle differential. DTC mode, which is activated at the touch of a button, raises the intervention thresholds of the stability control technology, making it easier to pull away on loose sand or snow with a degree of wheel spin. The system also allows controllable slip through the driven wheels under particularly sporty cornering. The EDLC system assists a sporty driving style when accelerating out of corners and sharp bends. In tight corners it brakes a spinning driven wheel as required to enhance the car’s traction without adversely affecting its self-steering properties. And that allows the driver to feed the car through corners more smoothly, as well as at greater speed. The interior components included in the John Cooper Works Pack also play their part in creating a full-blooded driving experience. These include John Cooper Works door entry strips and the John Cooper Works sports leather steering wheel with red contrast stitching. Cars with a manual gearbox are also kitted out with a John Cooper Works gearshift lever with red shift pattern lettering and a leather gaiter with red contrast stitching. Customers specifying a manual gearbox will also find the handbrake gaiter featuring red contrast stitching. The John Cooper Works Pack is available for all engine variants of the MINI and MINI Convertible and can be combined with eight body colours. The aerodynamics package included as part of the John Cooper Works Pack can also be ordered on its own for the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible. Exclusive to the MINI Cooper S: John Cooper Works Tuning Kit. The selection of John Cooper Works retrofit options will also welcome some attractive new additions in spring 2011. Customers keen to sample the sporting driving experience in the MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper S Clubman or MINI Cooper S Convertible in an even more focused form will be able to order their cars with the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit. Performance-optimised engine management and a specifically designed air filter system enable the twin-scroll turbo engine to develop even greater power. Indeed, the maximum output of the four-cylinder unit rises another 12 kW to 147 kW/200 hp at 5,700 rpm. Plus, the driver can call on maximum torque of 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) between 1,250 and 5,000 rpm when some seriously forceful acceleration is required – and this can be raised to as much as 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm courtesy of the Overboost function. All of which means that the MINI Cooper S can sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 6.8 seconds and record a top speed of 234 km/h (145 mph). The John Cooper Works Tuning Kit includes a model-specific sports silencer with chrome tailpipes, which optimises the exhaust gas discharge and gives the engine sound a particularly sporting note. It is available for retrofitting on all relevant models with manual gearbox produced since March 2010. It meets the MINI brand’s high standards of quality and safety in terms of both design and engineering and is retrofitted, like all John Cooper Works accessories components, by authorised MINI Service Partners. This means that the car’s warranty will remain unaffected. Another new addition to the John Cooper Works accessories range is the 18-inch Cross Spoke Red Stripe light-alloy wheel variant, which will also be available from spring 2011. The black wheel features the innovative addition of a red trim strip on the wheel rim. This high-quality marking is produced by means of a special painting process, and the colour tone is identical to the red of the painted John Cooper Works brake callipers. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported January sales of 18,656 vehicles, an increase of 21.1 percent from the 15,410 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. MINI USA reported sales of 2,751 automobiles in January, an increase of 22.4 percent from the 2,247 in January 2010. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

Gabe joins us tonight for some news from MF and we get his take on a few of the hot stories from last week, including the complete history of a MINI diesel in the US. We also take advantage of him being here to talk about something something BMW. We did put Ask Chad off until next week. It’s ok, I lay down a sweet rap for you to make up for it. Download | WRR @ iTunes | 28.1MB | 58:25 </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

In March, a handful of things will change in the MINI lineup regarding colors and options. Most notably (in our minds anyway) is the end of Pure Silver, a color that’s been with MINI since its launch in the states in 2002. Other colors are getting the chop as well. Sparkling Silver will be replaced by a Cooper-only color called Velvet Silver. The Clubman will get a new Reef Blue Metallic in both Cooper and Cooper S trim. In Countryman news, color options will remain the same for the MINI 4-door. March production updates will not bring a USA rear bench seat option for the R60 as hoped, but our sources tell us that the bench is still coming and should land very soon thereafter. Official towing capacity for the Countryman will also be issued. [Spoiler alert] It’s officially zero, just like the R5x cars. MINI USA does not recommend towing anything behind your car and does not offer an OEM tow package for this reason (although aftermarket kits are available). It’s worth noting that outside tue US MINI AG does offer towing packages that comply with local regulations. Unfortunately US regulations don’t allow for these kits. Lastly, a new upholstery option will be available beginning in March called Carbon Black Cosmos Cloth as a no-cost alternative to the stock leatherette, and can be had on both the sport and not-sport seats alike. So if you’re ordering a MINI soon, keep these details in mind. If you want a Pure Silver MINI, you’d better hurry. Post image courtesy of Flickr user themulett. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

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It’s the right of passage many of us graduate to early in life that quickly becomes a badge of honor. It’s the subtle cue to another enthusiast that you’re serious about the art of driving and a student of automotive history. In my mind there are cars that require a manual. The M3s, 911s or even MCS’ of the world just don’t seem as bare-chested with a pair of flappy paddles. And you know the moment. When you peer into either of those cars and see that dreaded auto knob. Your heart drops just a bit. If you’re a manual driver you care about that car. And you know it’s been wronged by someone who chose ease over interaction on the ordering spec (unless of course it’s a dedicated track car). So let’s be clear about it. The entire idea is laced with testosterone, but you don’t actually need to be a man to own or drive one. You simply need an attitude (and maybe at least figurative attachments). It’s the option for control freaks who don’t mind a little serendipity. In short, it’s a way of life. Sure you need a little insanity to look at today’s congested roads and choose a manual. But buying a new car with three pedals is a simple decision that separates those of us in the know from those of us unable to see through the monotony of daily life*. Or just get two cars. *Exclusions apply to anyone who cannot drive a manual due to injury or handicap. **There at least a half dozen examples of DCT only cars (mostly exotic) that clearly interest us and don’t necessarily fall into either category above). That said we wished they came in manual form. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

How far would you go to win a MINI? Stand with your hand on it for 12 days? Eat your weight in cherry pie? Well Autoblog is reporting that a german radio station recently gave away a MINI Cooper in a contest of who could come up with the biggest stunt to demonstrate how badly they wanted the car. The winner, Andreas Muller, overcame stiff competition to take the prize by having “MINI” tattooed on his …well, we’ll call it his Johnson Rod. That’s right, a live radio audience listened in as Mr. Muller got some custom ink embroidery on his personal shift knob. No photos have surfaced (thank the gods), but Mr. Muller is now the proud owner of his very own brand new MINI. Now he just needs a good vanity plate. What would you do to win a new MINI? </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше

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This fun new MINI ad made its way to our inbox yesterday and we were fortunate enough to get in touch with William Clark, the spot’s director, who provided us with an embeddable version. The ad highlights the wide range of models and accessories now available for MINI through the classic game of the red light fire drill. Great stuff, William. Thanks for making it available. This ad will start running (along with others) at movie theaters across the country and I wouldn’t be surprised if you saw it on the small screen in the near future as well. You can see more of William’s work at WiliamClarkPhotography.com. </img></img> </img> </img> </img> </img> Читать дальше