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The MINI Aceman is the brand’s next generation crossover designed and built from the ground up as a full electric car and now it’s been seen testing in Europe for the first time. Previewed in the form a concept earlier this year, it’s a smaller crossover than the current Countryman (it’s actually similar in length to the original R60) yet it has as much interior volume due to the smaller electric drivetrain. Sound perfect? It might be if it wasn’t for one glaring issue. Before we touch on the elephant in the room for the Aceman, let’s talk about what we see above. Unsurprisingly the MINI Aceman will forgo some of the more outlandish aspects of the concept while maintaining that minimal design language MINI has been forecasting. The proportions look promising with short overhangs and an overall shape that looks far more athletic than any of the first two generations of the Countryman. How does it slots into the MINI line-up? In MINI’s words this is a crossover version of the iconic MINI three door hatch. In our words the Aceman will bridge the gap from the new electric (J01) MINI hatch and the forthcoming (larger) 2024 MINI Countryman. What that means is that the MINI Aceman is almost the same size as the original R60 MINI Countryman at 4.05 meters in length, 1.99 in width and 1.59 in height while retaining a more point and shoot driving experience that lower weight distortion of the electric platform promises. Since it’s all electric, it uses design geometry that reduces the overhangs and maximizes the interior volume. You can clearly see this in the images inside and out. And to us that’s one of the more exciting aspects of this new direction for MINI. The MINI Aceman concept – a lightly disguised version of the final car.The MINI Aceman Interior Revolution Recently MINI told us that the brand is “working up fresh ideas on the design of urban mobility in the future and the User Experience associated with the use of the display and control system of MINI makes a major contribution to the driving fun so typical of the brand.” We can begin to get a sense of that with this concept and the unveiling of that circular OLED display and the textile dash with a built-in screen. The Big Issue with the MINI Aceman The MINI Aceman, along with the all new electric MINI hatch will initially be made only in China. The fact that it’s made in China doesn’t bother us as the time when Chinese cars meant poor quality is long passed. No the issue are the US based tariff’s which will likely keep the Paceman from the US market – at least initially. Geo-politics aside, those tariff’s will make it uniquely difficult for MINI USA to bring the Paceman to the market given its razor-thin margins. And then there’s also the issue of the forthcoming electric MINI Countryman. The next generation Countryman has been designed from the ground up to better appeal to North American tastes. As we’ve reported previously it will be both larger or more rugged in its overall design. According to sources MINI USA deems the Aceman too small for the US market given how close the cost would be after tariffs are factored in to the forthcoming larger Countryman. To us that’s a massive shame given how progressive this crossover looks to be. We also love the size which feels like a grown-up four door hatch to us. There still could be a chance as rumors point to MINI bringing the J01 electric MINI Cooper to the UK for production later this decade. We could imagine the Paceman following suit as well. The MINI Aceman – The Future Of MINI Design Sharper, more angular and less retro-futuristic. Those are the themes that we see in the concept and now the initial spy photos. But the biggest theme here is reduction – something Oliver Heimler, Head of MINI Design, has been forecasting for years. We see it especially in the interior where MINI is harkening back to the original 1959 car. Outside MINI is creating a more angular design that will leverage lightning personalization in new ways. For instance you’ll be able to program the rear LEDs to have a Union Jack design or something a bit more modern. The Next Generation MINI Family The Aceman is the first of many vehicle debuts we’ll see over the next 18 months as MINI prepared to launch it’s new generation. But not all will be entirely new. What we’ve been focused on with the Aceman is the entirely new, all electric MINI platform which will be built in collaboration with Great Wall Motors in China. But there’s another, petrol powered hatch coming which might be just as, if not more important for the MINI fans. MINI intends to heavily revise the UK made F56, give it a new chassis designation and sell it as a new MINI hatch. It will be MINI’s last ICE (internal combustion engine) powered car and will be critical to the US market as it’s still unclear of any of the Chinese made electric MINIs will make it to the US. G56 / Oxford, EnglandU25 / Leipzig, GermanyJ01 / China (GWM)G56 ICE Cooper 3 doorU25 ICE CountrymanJ01 EV Cooper 3 DoorG56 ICE Cooper S 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman SJ01 EV Cooper S 3 DoorG56 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman JCWJ01 EV Cooper JCW 3 DoorG55 ICE Cooper 5 doorU25 EV CountrymanJ02 EV AcemanG55 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 EV Countryman SJ02 EV Aceman SG57 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 EV Countryman JCW*J02 EV Aceman JCW*G57 ICE Cooper S Convertible––G57 ICE JCW Convertible––4Th Generation MINI Model Line-Up (2024) * Unconfirmed by our sourcesTiming is in flux at the moment given the supply chain challenges. However we believe we’ll see the J01 Cooper debut in late 2023 potentially with the G56 Cooper. Sales will likely commence in 2024. U25 Countryman will likely debut shortly afterwards with sales beginning in 2024. The J01 MINI Aceman should follow shortly after in 2024. MINI Aceman Photo Gallery The post MINI Aceman Seen testing In Europe For the First Time appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

For the MINI obsessed there are bunch of choices out there for great gift ideas. Obviously there’s the aftermarket and all the mods you can throw at your car. But there’s also a raft of the latest accessories straight from MINI. But the best part is you don’t have to visit your dealer. Outmotoring.com will have anything with a MINI part number often for less with quick shipping. Have a look below and head Outmotoring.com with and use code E22 for an additional 10% off today only! Official Release: Gift ideas with style: The MINI Lifestyle Collection 2022. The MINI Lifestyle Collection 2022 is bursting with great gift ideas for family, friends or your own wish list. For many people, travelling to see family and friends is a big part of the Christmas season. To make sure they have everything they need on board, MINI fans will find many practical helpers for when they are on the move. The current collection includes the MINI Two Tone Belt Bag for securely storing your valuables, the comfortable MINI Cabin Trolley and the MINI Two Tone Traveller Bag for hand luggage when travelling. Little adventurers travel in comfort with the MINI Kids Trolley in Chili Red. On the road, the MINI Scooter, MINI Tricycle or the speedy MINI Baby Racer are a fun way to explore the surroundings. If there is a MINI Cooper miniature among one of the presents, the dream of driving a MINI begins right under the Christmas tree. The new line of apparel offers fresh styles, features lots of ideal gifts and is a real eye-catcher under every Christmas tree. The MINI Graphic Wordmark T-Shirt, for example, combines a comfortable fit with the basic colour sage and typical MINI design elements. The same colour is used for the new MINI Striped Binding Zip Hoodie with a striped pattern for the hood edging and a white MINI Wing logo. All items of clothing are available in different cuts for women and men. With the MINI Wordmark Circle Zip Hoodie Kids, the little ones will shine as brightly as the Christmas tree in their new favourite piece of clothing. The colourful MINI Graphic Bibs, available in a set of 3, will protect against stains at the feast. For those who don’t want to leave the house on frosty days, the MINI Graphic Cup is particularly suitable. It’s perfect for spending a cosy evening with a hot chocolate, a good book and a nice warm spot by the fireplace. This is also the ideal setting for rethinking your Christmas list. The MINI Graphic Triangle Notebook made of high-quality stone paper is especially suitable for writing down your wish list. At Christmas visiting the Christmas market is a must. If you like your mulled wine to-go, you can use the well-insulated MINI Graphic Travel Mug. The MINI Water Bottle in timeless colour block design, on the other hand, is perfect as a gift. If you’ve put on a few pounds over the holidays, you can take the MINI Water Bottlewith you to the gym. No more excuses now. MINI fans can decorate their Christmas tree at home in style with the adorable MINI Charms in the shape of the MINI silhouette or the Bulldog mascot. With the high-quality workmanship and the conscientiously selected materials, the products of the MINI Lifestyle Collection also make a clear statement in favour of sustainability. The charms, for example, are made 100% from leather scraps that come from MINI seat production. The post Need a MINI Gift Idea? The MINI Lifestyle Collection is Here to Help appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The festive MINI is back. First started four years ago, the Festive MINI Is an Electric Cooper SE wrapped in 3,000 app-controlled twinkly lights, capable of generating customizable animations. The Festive MINI can even include light patterns and messages, and rhythms synced to your favorite song. This type of light animation is actually a hint of what’s to come with the lighting on the next generation MINI family. Official Release: The Festive MINI This year each individual light is available to sponsor for just £2, and to spread festive cheer and big love even further, Nico will be visiting as many streets as possible in his hometown throughout the festive period. The official ‘switch on’ of the Festive MINI 2022 will take place at The Lexicon Bracknell, on 25 November. In December 2020, the illuminating car came to the rescue when Christmas switch on displays were cancelled due to lockdown, spreading much needed joy and bringing cheer and positivity to people on their own doorsteps, whilst also raising awareness and over £5,000. Ahead of this year’s fundraising period, Nico said, “I’m delighted to be bringing the Festive MINI back for 2022 to raise more money for charities that are really close to my heart. I love having the opportunity to cheer people up whilst raising funds for the MS Trust and Duchenne UK”. “My mother was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis seven years ago and the MS Trust were instrumental in supporting her to understand her condition and how to cope. Back in 2019 I was asked to take the Festive MINI to surprise an incredible young boy, Marcus Rooks, who had been diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy – a genetic condition that causes degeneration of muscles. It was incredible to see his smile light up and a reminder that the Festive MINI is truly special and brings joy to many each year”. The Festive MINI is once again supported by MINI UK and MINI Plant Oxford, helping Nico spread Big Love in his local area and beyond. Nico added: “The continued support from MINI is amazing and its brilliant to have the team involved again this year – while driving a MINI Electric helps to reduce my emissions whilst driving”. Federico Izzo, Director, MINI UK said, “We’re very proud to support the Festive MINI Electric again this year, helping Nico’s incredible fundraising mission. It’s a fun and festive way to bring people together, spread big love and raise funds for some amazing charities.” For more information on the Festive MINI tour and to keep updated on where it’s headed visit www.festivemini.comor follow his journey on @drivingwithnico. The post The Festive MINI is Back appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI USA didn’t have an official presence at the LA Auto Show this year but the brand certainly had an impact. Harkening back to the early 2000s that saw MINI use various gorilla marketing strategies to get attention, the brand unveiled a giant RC car controller that actually charges electric cars via a 240v Level 2 system. Read the full release below for all the hilarious details. Official Release: MINI USA Unveils Giant RC Car Controller That Charges Electric Vehicles Before getting behind the wheel for the first time, many of today’s drivers found their love for cars at an early age with electric remote controlled, or RC, cars. Today, MINI USA looks to bring back that playful, childhood element to full-sized electric vehicles, many of which are expected at the 2022 Los Angeles Auto Show kicking off this week. Playing on MINI’s small size and fun-to-drive spirit, MINI has erected a giant 240V Level 2 electric vehicle charger in the shape of an attention-getting “MINI-fied” RC controller. The oversized charging station is located in close proximity to the Los Angeles Convention Center, at 698 West Olympic Boulevard at the corner of Flower Street. The RC controller-shaped charger will be in place and fully functional November 18-19, the first two days of the LA Auto Show. EV owners interested in plugging into the RC charger can look for a parking space with the message “OUT-FUN THE COMPETITION” spray-painted within, as well as signage on either side pointing arrows and the message “CHARGE THIS WAY.” “At MINI we always like to bring a splash of excitement that reminds people of the fun and creativity inherent to MINI’s culture,” said Rah Mahtani, Brand Communications Manager, MINI USA. “We strive to keep that fun and excitement alive for everyone that loves to drive, and this project unites the ideas of today’s electric vehicles with our collective nostalgia for the electric RC cars of our youth.” The giant sized charger sits at approximately nine feet tall and is finished in Nanuq White, the newest color offered on the MINI Cooper SE, with a name chosen by MINI fans. The top of the charger is painted in a contrasting black which pays homage to the signature MINI contrast roof, and the giant wheel control on the side is an actual full-size MINI wheel and tire. In the base of the charger is a 10-inch interactive screen that features video content of MINI USA’s most recent “Nanuq the polar bear”, campaign spot. A QR code is also displayed that allows people to access the MINI Electric augmented reality filter to explore and have fun learning about the MINI electric while they wait for their EV to charge. Following its stint at the LA Auto Show, the MINI RC charger will go on tour, with its temporary installation at several local MINI dealers throughout California, before being packed up in a giant cardboard box and stored in the attic at mom’s house. The post MINI USA Unveils Giant RC Car Controller That Charges Electric Vehicles appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The campaign for the new 2023 MINI Cooper Electric SE kicked off on Earth Day in April starring a cute polar bear character in the passenger’s seat. As things work the polar bear went viral, leading to a huge outpouring of love from the MINI community and an invitation to give it a name. Nanuq, which means polar bear in Inuit, was the chosen name that has now become the name of MINI’s latest white paint color (replacing the beloved Pepper White). As part of the campaign MINI USA partnered with Polar Bears International to convert the enthusiastic reaction towards the campaign into a chance to help real polar bears through an Eco-Adoption site. The new Nanuq White is now available across the MINI range for 2023. Official Release: MINI USA Reveals 2023 Electric MINI Cooper SE New Nanuq White Following the celebration of International Polar Bear Week, (October 30-November 5), MINI USA announces the launch of a new Nanuq white paint finish on the 2023 MINI Electric Cooper SE. The new paint color, named Nanuq White was inspired by the name of the loveable polar bear character created by the brand’s creative agency Pereira O’Dell along with enthusiastic feedback from the MINI owner community. The campaign for the 2023 MINI Cooper SE Electric first launched in April 2022 on Earth Day, features a partnership with MINI USA and Polar Bears International to encourage eco-adoptions from the MINI community – and the polar bear love grew from there. In response to the campaign, MINI USA received an outpouring from the MINI community with questions asking where they could get hold of a polar bear bobble head featured in the campaign. The overwhelming engagement of the MINI community with the polar bear character led to the idea to let the community give it a name. Nanuq – Inuit for “polar bear” – was the chosen name, which led to the new MINI Cooper SE paint color with the same name to be revealed following International Polar Bear Week by MINI USA. “We’re excited to see the strength of our MINI owner community and our commitment to sustainability intersect in a very creative way to help support Polar Bears International.” said Rah Mahtani, Brand Communications Manager, at MINI USA. “MINI is a brand that is not only about having fun, but also about amplifying the voice of its customers and community to affect positive change.” The 2023 MINI Cooper SE stays true to what owners love about MINI, while providing the broader benefits of full electrification. The MINI Cooper SE provides MINI’s signature electrified go-kart feeling and driving fun, while helping to minimize its environmental footprint. The model is an important step in MINI’s stated goal of offering an all-electric line-up of vehicles around 2030. The original campaign ran with paid media across DOOH, Social, Digital, and was featured on the MINI and PBI websites. A fun case study video was created to highlight the creative journey from initial campaign to fan engagement that led to the name of both the polar bear mascot and the new paint color. “This was supposed to be a story about a car that is good for the environment and super fun to drive.” said PJ Pereira, Creative Chairman at Pereira O’Dell. “Maybe about the charm of this not-so-little mascot too. But then it snowballed into an even better story about enthusiasm, passion and creativity of the MINI community.” To give that enthusiasm an even bigger impact, MINI USA partnered with Polar Bears International (PBI) on the 2023 MINI Cooper SE Hardtop campaign. PBI is the only non-profit organization dedicated solely to polar bears and Arctic sea ice, and MINI USA’s partnership aims to promote awareness of the NGO’s polar bear conservation efforts. Anyone that donates $40 or more to PBI via the PBI Eco-Adoption page during the month of November will receive a polar bear bobblehead and a thank you card while supplies last. Customers who pre-order a MINI Cooper SE during the month of November will also receive a bobblehead while they wait for their MINI. MINI USA are also refreshing their paid assets to feature the new Nanuq white paint color, which will include social and digital assets driving to the MINI Electric Pre-Order page. “We’re grateful to MINI USA for their generous support and pledging their polar promise in protection of polar bear conservation efforts and the company’s dedication to a more sustainable future,” said Krista Wright, Executive Director of Polar Bears International. “By participating in this campaign, we hope to inspire conversation around the important steps we can each take in preserving the planet for future generations.” Scientists predict that if greenhouse gas emissions continue at the current rate, most polar bears could disappear by 2100 due to lack of sea ice. State-of-the art climate models indicate that an ice-free Arctic in summer will likely occur by the middle of the century if greenhouse gas emissions aren’t regulated. Anyone can make a difference and encourage their community to slow climate change. The post MINI USA Reveals 2023 Electric MINI Cooper SE New Nanuq White appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The 2024 MINI Countryman will be offered in several configurations highlighted by an all electric model and a mild-hybrid four cylinder. Built alongside the X1 and X2 in Leipzig German, the next generation 2024 MINI Countryman will also grow larger and will be designed to appear more to outdoor enthusiasts. But today we’re here to talk the new drivetrains and what to expect in the next 18 months. The ICE 2024 MINI Countryman – More Power and Tech For the ICE models, MINI is moving 7-speed Steptronic Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT) and will be offered with a revised family of mild-hybrid four cylinders. The revised B48 engine will have a second-generation 48V mild hybrid technology comprised of an electric motor integrated into the seven-speed double clutch. The transmission will act as a starter generator and is able to both ease the load on the engine and act in unison with it. It produces nominal power of 19 hp and nominal torque of 41 lb-ft. Depending on the driving situation, the electric motor delivers additional drive power that translates into a more rapid response both when pulling away and when putting in a sudden burst of speed. The starter generator also enables more comfortable operation of the Automatic Start/Stop and coasting functions. The BMW X1 28i with what will be an identical drivetrain to the forthcoming MINI Countryman SMild Hybrid with Adaptive Recuperation The system in the next generation Countryman will be the same as the one just launched in the new BMW X1. Based on that we know the energy required for providing the electric power boost is stored in a 48V battery located under the luggage compartment. As well as the electric motor, it also supplies the car’s 12V electrical system via a voltage transformer. The 48V battery is charged by means of adaptive recuperation in overrun and braking phases at a rate of up to 15 kW. This provides an efficient means of recuperating previously unused kinetic energy generated by braking. Here, the system uses data from the navigation system – even when route guidance is not activated – and driver assistance system sensors. In this way, upcoming roundabouts or vehicles traveling in front, for example, can be detected in order to adapt deceleration accordingly as soon as the driver takes their foot off the accelerator. Our sources tell us that the Countryman will use an identical system. 2024 MINI Countryman – Likely Engine Configurations The 2024 MINI Countryman S will see a major increase in power from the 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit and 48V mild hybrid technology. There are two tunes from the X1 that could be used – 218 hp and a 241 hp. Our guess is that we’ll see the 218 hp tune giving the forthcoming 320 hp JCW more room. The 218 hp would be made up from the 204 hp engine and a 19 hp electric motor. Having driven a version of the revised engine in our recent BMW X1 test, what you’re struck my immediately is it’s power boost function during acceleration. The peak torque of 265 lb-ft (developed by the combination of the combustion engine with up to 236 lb-ft at 1,500 – 4,000 rpm and the integrated electric motor with up to 41 lb-ft is key here. The US spec X1 28i gets to 60 mph in 6.2 seconds with this system. The upgraded three-cylinder engine in the new BMW X1 sDrive18i will see duty in the base Countryman. That engine has a maximum output of 136 hp and maximum torque of 170 lb-ft from its 1.5-litre capacity. The Electric 2024 MINI Countryman SE – An Electric MINI For The Rest of Us We love the current electric MINI Cooper SE but with an EP rated 110 miles of range its use cases don’t work for everyone. That’s why the 2024 electric MINI Countryman S with over 200 miles of range is a game changer. Based on the new BMW iX1, the electric Countryman SE will be the first all-electric variant for the model. The 2024 electric Countryman SE will likely be powered by one electric motor at the front axle and another at the rear, each sitting together with the accompanying power electronics and transmission within a single, compact housing. These integrated drive units deliver a combined output of 313 hp (including temporary boost) and post overall torque of 364 lb-ft. The power-to-weight ratio of both the eDrive 5.0 M170SF drive unit at the front axe and the eDrive 5.0 M170SR drive unit at the rear is 1.5 kW/kg. Yes this thing will be JCW fast and might even be marketed as a JCW. The BMW iX1 with an identical electric drivetrain to the forthcoming Countryman SEThe same system found in the slightly heavier BMW iX1 xDrive30 reaches the 100 km/h (62 mph) mark from rest in 5.6 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 112 mph. The MINI Countryman SE will make use of the fifth-generation BMW eDrive technology charging technology and the battery tech providing 64.7 kWh of usable energy. The battery’s high energy density of 152 Wh/kg in relation to its weight or 199 Wh/l in relation to its volume, and the drive system’s efficiency, with combined electric power consumption in the WLTP cycle of 18.1 – 16.8 kWh per 100 kilometres (figures in NEDC cycle: –), form the basis for a range of 417 – 440 kilometres (259 – 273 miles). The EPA figures are all guesses at this point but sources are telling us to expect something over 200 miles. Assuming the Countryman SE uses the Combined Charging Unit in the BMW iX1 xDrive30, we should see single- and three-phase AC charging at a rate of up to 11 kW, which can be optionally increased to up to 22 kW (three-phase AC). This allows the high-voltage battery to be fully recharged from empty in 6.5 hours as standard and in just 3 hours 45 minutes as an option. DC power can be taken on board at a rate of up to 130 kW, making it possible to boost the high-voltage battery’s energy reserves from 10 to 80 per cent of total capacity in the space of 29 minutes. Within this charge level range, enough energy can be sourced from a high-power-charging point in just ten minutes to increase range by 120 kilometres / 75 miles. 2024 MINI Countryman Launch Dates We should see the 2024 Countryman launch in late 2023. Rumors point to the ICE and electric version launching simultaneously with sales in the US beginning in the spring of 2024. Pricing will be launch likely in Q1 of 2024 for the US market. Head over to the U25 Countryman section within MotoringFile for a deeper look at this new MINI. The post Next Generation 2024 MINI Countryman To Offered With In Electric and ICE Models With a DCT appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

We’ve spent an enormous amount of time in the previous X1 and its close cousins the MINI Clubman and MINI Countryman. While the X1 was decent take on a front-wheel drive BMW crossover, it did little to excite it and was often overshadowed by the slightly smaller and more engaging MINI Clubman and Countryman. Now BMW is back with a larger X1 that turns up the design, quality and performance making it one of the most dramatic generational improvements we’ve ever seen from BMW. It’s also a great preview of the next generation MINI Countryman that will be based on it. For the first time since the original, 3 Series based X1, we have something that feels closer to what you’d expect from the Roundel. In fact rarely have we seen such a dramatic increase in design, quality and performance from one generation to the next. The BMW X1 28i is offered with the familiar B48 four cylinder turbo with a 241 hp, 295 lbs of torque tune. That propels the car from 0-60 in 6.2 seconds – a respectable number but one that will improve with the forthcoming M40i model our sources have informed us about. We’d expect similar figures with both the forthcoming Countryman S and Countryman JCW. Unlike the previous X1, xDrive is standard and is offered exclusively with a 7 speed dual clutch transmission. In our time with the car the DCT felt both quicker and overall smarter than the previous Aisin sourced 8 speed auto. Shifts were less noticeable which helps the entire package feel a bit more refined. This will be a welcome change in the Countryman line-up as well. One area that is particularly improved is the steering and suspension tuning. In Comfort the steering resistance is noticeably lighter than before to the point of being surprising at first. The X1 we tested at the Adaptive M Suspension which has more range than before. In Comfort the ride is compose but focused on exactly what you’d expect – comfort. In Sport however the X1 comes alive with an heavier steering that feels artificial but does provide positive feedback to the point that you can place the car with trust anywhere in a corner. Along with the hardware and tuning, the .8″ wider track is certainly a part of that. There’s precision here that surprised us and is a clear step forward from the previous X1. The Sport suspension is also a noticeable improvement with better body control and less lean while being no more harsh over expansion joins or rough pavement. In fact with the one inch longer wheelbase it feels more refined and comfortable even in sport than the previous X1. BMW Makes Some Major Changes to Standard Equipment The X1 28i comes standard with BMW’s excellent all wheel drive system xDrive and for the first time in the US. Dynamic Cruise control and Navigation are standard along with wireless CarPlay and Android Auto. SensaTec is the only interior material available as BMW has quietly eliminated leather from the X1’s ordering books. While that may sound like a downgrade, BMW’s latest version of SensaTec is a clear step-up and feels better to the touch than mid-grade leather the X1 had before. It will also surely be more durable. We’ll also see this change in the upcoming 2024 Countryman as MINI goes entirely vegan over the next several years. The X1 comes with 18″ wheels as standard but can be optioned with 19″ and 20″. And finally BMW is offering an optional trailer hitch with a towing rating of 3500 lbs. Expect this option to be available next year and eventually on the Countryman as well. All of these changes serve to position the X1 better against it’s less premium rivals in the US while increasing both the quality and driving experience. What This means For the 2024 Countryman? In this redesign BMW has brought this 3rd generation X1 closer to the rest of the BMW crossover range in design, material quality and performance. Everything from the proportions to the technology to the material quality has been improved. Even the feel, feedback and overall driving engagement has been noticeably improved over its predecessor. All of that bodes well for the Countryman which we can imagine will see most if not all of these benefits in a slightly smaller package. But slightly smaller to the now larger X1 means we will still see that car grow noticeably in size. The post 2023 BMW X1 28i- The Best X1 Since The Original & a preview of The Next MINI Countryman [Video] appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The manual transmission is back and MINI USA is celebrating by launching the MINI Manual Driving School. Located at the BMW Performance Center in Thermal California, the MINI Manual Driving School is intended to spread the joy of manual knowledge through a series of cources and on-track sessions. It’s also intended to show MINI’s comittment to rowing your own as a core brand vlaue. MINI USA is seeing massive interest in the manual since it returned. In fact 30% of all JCW hardtops ordered recently have been manual – easily the highest take-rate of any manual car outside of a Porsche 911 GT3. With clear enthusiasm from would be owners, MINI is leaning into the manual and not only offering it but promoting it and then teaching how to use it. The driving school is a half a day with sessions that start with safety, clutch friction point and the finner aspects of how a manual works. Then you get to the track and test shifting, shift points and emergency braking. Finally you end with a stop and go autocross and puts it all together. The driving school is exclusively avilable at the BMW Performance Center in Thermal California. Official Release: MINI Launches the MINI Manual Driving School Thermal, Calif. – November 3, 2022 – MINI USA is bringing back the fun of driving a manual transmission by launching a new MINI Manual Driving School at the BMW Performance Center in Thermal, Calif. The announcement comes shortly after MINI USA confirmed the manual transmissions would return to specific MINI models for November production. While the manual transmission has fallen to the wayside for many drivers over time, the excitement and passion for driving a manual has never faltered. To expand the accessibility and fun of driving a manual, MINI USA is offering a manual driving school that is open to any drivers looking for the opportunity to learn to drive manual in an engaging and safe atmosphere. The BMW Group Performance Center West will be the exclusive location for the MINI Manual Driving School. Through the team of their experienced instructors, the school will incorporate both a classroom portion and a hands-on driving experience at the on-site test track. Since 1999, the BMW Performance Center has instructed over 500,000 participants at its two locations in Thermal, Calif., and Greenville, SC, through a wide range of driving courses. In 2016 it added MINI driving programs, and now plans to expand its instruction to teach students the fun of driving a manual. MINI owners have long valued the manual transmission models offered by the brand. This initiative welcomes a new generation of manual drivers while allowing others to sharpen their skills after years of driving automatic. The course is designed to create a foundation for drivers to build their comfort with driving manual transmission vehicles, with the curriculum that focuses on vehicle controls, finding the friction point, practicing smooth starts, stops, acceleration, and more. At the conclusion of the course, participants will be tested on a timed course to assess the driver’s knowledge. ’’For over a decade, consumers have ranked MINI as the most fun to drive brand in America, which is exactly why we brought back the manual transmission,’’ said Rah Mahtani, Brand Communications Manager, MINI USA. ‘’The course is not only informative but also a fun and challenging learning experience for a new generation of MINI drivers that they will remember forever. ’’ The experience of manual vehicles goes far beyond the look and feel but focuses on the enjoyment of the drive. For most consumers, the opportunity to drive a manual is limited by their ability to learn how. With the BMW Group Performance Center classes, MINI is giving its audience the confidence to take their vehicles out on the open road and enjoy the experience to the fullest extent. The post MINI Launches the MINI Manual Driving School To Teach The Dying Art of Driving a Manual appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Our new long term MINI year far is here and it’s the 2022 MINI Countryman Cooper S Untamed edition. Yes there’s a lot to unpack in that name so let’s get started and tell you some of our early thoughts, the good, the bad and the unfortunate. We’ll start with the unfortunate. As much as we love the look and overall concept of this special edition, the name and how it’s plastered everywhere (literally) is very cringey. The call something “untamed” in 2022 is playing on some very tired analogies that make MINI feel a bit out of touch when it comes to naming conventions. The word is everywhere; the side scuttle, ear side windows, steering wheel and even built into the illuminated dash. The good news is that this one thing is the only thing MINI missed with on this car. The total package looks great. With that out of the way let’s get into the car. This is a 2022 Countryman Cooper S Untamed edition and is finished in Momentum Grey metallic with Highland Green leather inside. It’s loaded with almost every options missing only adaptive cruise, power rear hatch and ear seat center armrest. All three are missed but the adaptive cruise is especially missed given the highway driving this car will see. Having had it on our last several MINI we can attest to it being a must have option for anyone who drives their MINI long distance. The good is plentiful with this car starting with the car itself. Seven years into a production cycle is not usually an exciting moment for a car but the Countryman still feels fresh both in how it drives and how it looks. The dynamics are largely the same as they have been which immediately puts it in the top of its class for engagement and driving enjoyment. Steering feel isn’t the strong suit of the car but you quickly build confidence in both overall grip and precise placement. For a small crossover this thing is fun and that in itself is worth celebrating. Coming from a few years with a 301 hp JCW Clubman and then Countryman there’s clearly a recalibration of performance expectation. Our new Countryman has 190 hp moving all 3,618 LBS to 60 mph in 7.2 seconds. The JCW Clubman does that in 4.6 which the Countryman just behind that. Yes that’s a huge difference and one that you feel anytime you have to accelerate quickly. But hear the surprise; in normal city driving you don’t miss the extra performance. Except perhaps one thing – braking. The MCS does fine and if you’ve never driven a JCW before. But if you’ve experienced those massive front brakes you’ll never be the same. Maybe that’s our problem then? What is the MINI Countryman Untamed Edition Exactly? It’s a special edition Countryman is unique trim, colors and decals. There are no mechanical differences to the standard Countryman Cooper S All4 but the visuals do distinguish immediately. The exclusive exterior Momentum Grey metallic is extended to the air curtain inserts in the front apron and the side sills, as well as on the reflector inserts and the lower insert in the rear apron. The background to the MINI brand logo on the bonnet and tailgate is in Momentum Grey metallic. It’s a unique look you’ll notice if you’re a MINI fan. It’s combined with a contrasting black finish on the roof and exterior mirror caps as well as on the roof rails and headlight housings. The Piano Black Exterior adds further black design features: the surrounds of the radiator grille, headlights, tail lights and side scuttles, the door handles, the tailpipe trims, the model lettering. Then there are those stripes finished in Frozen Bluestone on the lower section of each door. The inlays and the carrier plates of the side scuttles are also finished in this color. Like the door sill finishers, the side scuttles also feature a graphic pattern inspired by a mountain landscape, together with the inscription “UNTAMED”. Yup – that regrettable name is everywhere unfortunately. The inscription is also featured on the rear side windows albeit in easily removable stickers. Finally the 18-inch alloy wheels are unique to the Untamed Edition. The interior of the MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 Untamed Edition features nature-inspired shades of green and blue. The exclusive Highland Green is combined with blue and green contrast stitching on the surfaces of the heasted and power operated MINI Yours Leather Lounge sports seats. It’s really our favorite part of the car as it’s both striking and restrained at the same time. To finish things off there’s a graphic of a mountain landscape illuminated in the trim in Frozen Bluestone. And yes, at night it lights up and says “UNTAMED”. If you can get passed the name there’s a lot to like about this package. However is it worth the $45,250 given that a JCW can be had for not much more? We intend to find out over the next 12 months. The post Our 2022 MINI Countryman Untamed Edition is Here And There’s a lot to Take In appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Convertible Resolute Edition launched in March 2022 is getting a series of enhancements for 2023. MINI is adding new exterior colors, interior upholsteries, technology and the Iconic Trim 2.0 to the convertible special edition. The Resolute has always been our favorite of the special editions but does it get even better? Let’s dig into the details. Official Release: MINI Updates The MINI Convertible Resolute Edition Classically sporty, refreshingly open: The MINI Cooper S Convertible in the Resolute Edition takes up MINI’s long history in Motorsport with its exclusive Rebel Green color. The bonnet stripes, with their color gradient between a light and dark shade of gold, together with the powerful bumpers and resolute bronze frames, give the open-top four-seater an extravagantly individual appearance. Equipped with a 131 kW/178 hp four-cylinder engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo technology, MINI currently offers the world’s only premium convertible in the compact car segment and guarantees typical MINI driving pleasure in the open air. The MINI Resolute Edition can be ordered for the MINI Cooper Convertible and the MINI Cooper S Convertible and will include the “Driving Assistant” as standard from production in November. The post MINI Updates The MINI Convertible Resolute Edition appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

For MINI fans the product code that defines each vehicle internally has become not just an identifier but a rallying cry. Whether you’re an R53 or F57 fan, those three letters matter. Which is why MINI’s next generation product codes are so interesting. They are massive departures and reveal big change ahead for the brand. The first thing you’ll notice is that the prefix letter isn’t consistent. For this next generation of MINI products there will actually be three families of products. Why the change? Starting in early 2024, MINI will be releasing a new generation of cars and crossovers with a focus on all electrification. Made in the UK, a revised F56 (G66) with internal combustion (ICE) is sticking around for another ten years (as is the manual transmission) but the focus for MINI is on electrification across the line-up. This will start with an all new J01 electric MINI Cooper which will be made in China and will pack much more range and performance in a smaller package than the current car. That will immediately followed by both the all electric and ICE U25 Countryman (made in Germany). 4Th Generation MINI Model Line-Up (2024) G66 / Oxford, EnglandU25 / Leipzig, GermanyJ01 / China (GWM)G66 ICE Cooper 3 doorU25 ICE CountrymanJ01 EV Cooper 3 DoorG66 ICE Cooper S 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman SJ01 EV Cooper S 3 DoorG66 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman JCWJ01 EV Cooper JCW 3 DoorG65 ICE Cooper 5 doorU25 EV CountrymanJ02 EV AcemanG65 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 EV Countryman SJ02 EV Aceman SG67 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 EV Countryman JCW*J02 EV Aceman JCW*G67 ICE Cooper S Convertible––G67 ICE JCW Convertible––* Unconfirmed by our sourcesAn early, undisguised look at the J01 Chinese made electric MINI Cooper. Note the camouflaged version next to it and how MINI has hidden the smaller, simpler proportions of the new car. The J01 Electric MINIs The all new 2024 electric MINI will be the brand’s first electric vehicle on a dedicated electric platform. Unlike the current MINI Cooper SE which was built on an existing ICE chassis, this new electric MINI will be designed from the ground up to be an electric car which will allow for much improved performance and range. The J01 will initially be built in China however we believe MINI will eventually transition a version to the UK for production around 2027. What makes the J01 Cooper such a massive car for MINI is that it’s the brand’s first electric vehicle on a dedicated electric platform. Unlike the current MINI Cooper SE which was built on an existing ICE chassis, this new electric MINI will be designed from the ground up to be an electric car which will allow for much improved performance and range. How improved? While we don’t have the final figures, we have some clues. The other major step MINI is taking here is with the interior experience. Gone is the retro-futuristic details that have been part of MINIs for two decades. In their place is a clean, minimal aesthetic that harkens back to the original 1959 Mini. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be a massive technology upgrade. L1 and L2 autonomy features and a massive circular screen will be major additions as well a revised heads-up-display eliminating the need for a traditional instrument cluster. According to sources, the entry level electric MINI Cooper will launch with a 40kWh battery (compared to 28.9kWh in the current Cooper SE) combined with an electric engine producing around 180 hp. That should give the car a range between 180 and 200 miles depending on how it’s measured. That would be a dramatic increase over the current 110 range from the F56 based Cooper SE. And that’s the initial release so there’s surely more to come. You can read more about the J01 here. The G66 will be a heavily revised F56 based on the same chassis but with all new technology.The G66 Generation of MINIs A revised F56 (to be called the G66) MINI will form the basis of the “new” ICE (internal combustion engine) MINI Cooper and will be built at the Oxford plant. This revised car will be an extensively revised F56 that will affect not just the design of the car but the technology and even structure. The look of the car inside and out will nearly match that of the all-new electric MINI built in China. We say nearly because the footprint of the ICE car will be a bit larger and will still include a longer front overhang due to how ICE drivetrains affect pedestrian safety standards. 100% made in the UK at Oxford, this family will include the three and five door Cooper as well as the convertible. Recent spy photos of the forthcoming revised F56 give us some clues as to what to expect. For starters MINI looks to have slightly decreased the front over-hang. We’ve heard for years the brand had been toying with new crash materials that could pass pedestrian safety standards with less space needed. We also know that Oliver Heimler has gone as record several times that the current car’s front overhang is too large and not in fitting with the brand. Also present in recent prototypes is a camera and sensor module integrated into the top of the grille. This should allow the G66 to make use of L1 and perhaps even L2 autonomy features seen on some BMWs. Currently MINI has only one vaguely autonomous feature – adaptive cruise. While helpful it really does one thing – follow the car in front. MINI’s aim is to introduce this technology as an option meant primarily for highway purposes and likely only on automatic equipped MINIs. But perhaps the most pressing reason for MINI to upgrade the Cooper’s camera system is newly introduced EU safety legislation that goes into affect in 2024. More specifically MINI needs to comply with the European intelligent speed assistance (ISA) requirement that has the ability to limit cars speed in urban environments. Yes you read that right. The U25 MINI Countryman The 2024 U25 MINI Countryman will move to exclusively being produced in Leipzig Germany alongside X1 and X2 BMWs. Like those cars it will also grow in size to better serve the US market and make way for the smaller Aceman in the line-up. In total we expect the new Countryman to be about 200 mm (8 inches) larger – specifically in the rear. While MINI chose to modify the UKL chassis to shorten the rear giving the current Countryman slightly more MINI-like proportions, we believe this next generation car will more closely follow it’s BMW twins in overall size but lengthening the rear. This will allow for a full electric version of the Countryman for the first time. The JCW Countryman will also transition into the age of electrification. Our sources have been telling us for the last several years that the next evolution of the 306 hp tune on the B48 four cylinder would include a hybrid component. While that solution might add a bit of weight, it would allow the JCW Countryman around 50 miles of pure electric drive on a single charge. But MINI is well aware that’s not why you buy a JCW. Delivering increased performance will be a 326 hp ICE engine coupled with an electric engine and all the immediate torque you could ever want. Yes that is a massive circular screen. And yes it’s identical to what we saw a few months ago on the upcoming 2024 MINI electric hatch. But there’s seemingly one difference here – that massive plastic enclosure that connects the screen to the dash. However we believe that enclosure is actually camouflage and the final design will feature a floating circular display like we you see to the right from the 2024 electric MINI hatch leak. Beyond the massive screen there’s a lot to take in here. The switches and knobs (which are actually marked) are also identical to what we saw in the electric hatch leak meaning that MINI is moving to a consistent user experience across all models no matter where they’re produced or what platform they’re on. That’s an essential move if MINI wants that digital experience to be a selling point of the brand. Next Germination MINI Timing Given the supply chain challenges we can’t be too specific. However we believe we’ll see the J01 Cooper debut in late 2023 potentially with the G66 Cooper. Sales will likely commence in 2024. U25 Countryman will likely debut shortly afterwards with sales beginning in 2024. The post Next Generation MINI Product Codes Reveal Big Changes for the Brand appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI is making some changes to its production plans coinciding with the 2024 launch of its 4th generation MINI family. At the heart of this change will be MINI’s continued desire to make Oxford England the centerpiece of its production while producing cars in both China and Germany. However there is a major short term casualty in the current electric MINI. One of the most intriguing bombshells sources are telling us are MINI’s plans to expand production of the next generation J01 electric MINI Cooper and J02 MINI Aceman to the Oxford Plant later this decade. This redistribution of production will not only help future proof the Oxford Plant but also allow BMW to avoid US tariffs on the cars paving the way for their introduction to the US market. How as part of this focus on electrifying only new models, MINI will kill the current F56 Electric hatch eliminating the only electric product made in Oxford. For now. 4Th Generation MINI Model Line-Up (2024) Oxford, EnglandLeipzig, GermanyChina (GWM)G66 ICE Cooper 3 doorU25 ICE CountrymanJ01 Electric Cooper 3 DoorG66 ICE Cooper S 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman SJ01 Electric Cooper S 3 DoorG66 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman JCWJ01 Electric Cooper JCW 3 DoorG65 ICE Cooper 5 doorU25 Electric CountrymanJ02 Electric AcemanG65 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 Electric Countryman SJ02 Electric Aceman SG67 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 Electric Countryman JCWJ02 Electric Aceman JCWG67 ICE Cooper S ConvertibleG67 ICE JCW ConvertibleFor 2024 the next generation MINIs will be built in three plants however the product mix will shift in 2027Additionally not all new MINIs will actually be new. A revised F56 (to be called the G66) MINI will form the basis of the “new” ICE (internal combustion engine) MINI Cooper and will be built at the Oxford plant. This revised car will be an extensively revised F56 that will affect not just the design of the car but the technology and even structure. The look of the car inside and out will nearly match that of the all-new electric MINI built in China. We say nearly because the footprint of the ICE car will be a bit larger and will still include a longer front overhang due to how ICE drivetrains affect pedestrian safety standards. The Electric MINI Returns to the UK in 2027 While many are reporting that this is the end of electric production at the Oxford Plant, our sources are telling us the opposite. According to those sources MINI is planning to bring a revised version of J01 all new electric hatch (initially built in China) to the Oxford Plant for global export in 2027. This could also point to the J02 Aceman following suit which would bring the entire MINI family into the UK or EU for easier export to the markets with large Chinese tariffs such as the US. The Next Generation MINI Countryman Becomes German The 2024 U25 MINI Countryman will move to exclusively being produced in Leipzig Germany alongside X1 and X2 BMWs. Like those cars it will also grow in size to better serve the US market and make way for the smaller Aceman in the line-up. In total we expect the new Countryman to be about 200 mm (8 inches) larger – specifically in the rear. While MINI chose to modify the UKL chassis to shorten the rear giving the current Countryman slightly more MINI-like proportions, we believe this next generation car will more closely follow it’s BMW twins in overall size but lengthening the rear. This will allow for a full electric version of the Countryman for the first time. The post Exclusive MINI to Kill F56 Based Electric MINI in Production Reorganization appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI is dramatically simplifying it’s product line-up and naming conventions. Starting with the 4th generation in 2024, all small MINIs will move to a simplified model line-up and naming structure to help avoid confusion and make the model names simpler. The base small MINI will be known simply as the MINI Cooper with two different levels of performance and options; the Cooper S and the JCW. The move is one we’ve pontificated about for years as an idea to avoid confusion and lean into the fact that the hatch is known as the “MINI Cooper” worldwide (which MINI likes it or not). This move also means the brand is killing the MINI One and other entry-level models it’s sold in various markets for over 20 years. How will MINI handle the Countryman? According to sources MINI will use the Countryman name as the base model, With S and JCW donating higher performance trims. What do you think? Is this shortening of the names going to solve confusion or add to it? The post MINI To Simplify Naming with New MINI Cooper Base Model appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI USA is making some big changes in small ways for is 2023 model line-up. The headline for many of you will be the return of the manual transmission – something we previewed a few weeks ago. Beyond that MINI USA is making supply chain related changes to packages and killing one favorite color (along with a few others). Oh and they’re introducing a few colors. Limited Return of Manual Transmission After being unavailable for better part of a year, the manual transmission will return to the MINI. The global semiconductor shortage and the Russian invasion of Ukraine had forced MINI into the decision to eliminate the iconic option in an effort keep production flowing. What that allowed for was a simplified production process and a focus on options and components that can be more easily maintained in its parts inventory. In MINI’s own words the move was made to “ensure production stability” for the entire range. However there is enough parts stability in the pipeline that MINI is bringing back the option for limited range of cars. The reintroduction of the manual transmission is offered on the Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works variants of the MINI Hardtop 2 Door. New Colors Along with the Death of Others November production will bring the introduction of the new Melting Silver III color into the full MINI range, as well as the new Nanuq White as a choice on the MINI hardtops, Clubman and Countryman (seen above). Availability of Pepper White, White Silver and Moonwalk Grey will end with October production. Along with Chili Red, Pepper white has been the only consistent color MINI has offered since it’s relaunch and one that we’ve always loved. In its place is Nanuq White which is a brighter white intended to go better with the upcoming next generation MINI vehicles. Revised 2023 Model Year Pricing Structure MINI USA is once again limiting options by grouping them together to create a much simpler ordering process. Due to supply chain restrictions that impacted production earlier this year, MINI USA took steps to simplify the trim offering to ensure continued delivery of new vehicles to the market. These changes included no longer offering the Classic Trim level from the MINI product lineup. As supply challenges have eased, MINI USA is continuing to enhance and simplify the trim offering by adding previously restricted equipment and options back into newly its revised trim levels – Signature 2.0 and Iconic 2.0. By adding more equipment to these two trim levels, MINI USA offers more value to the consumer while ensuring consistent product availability. These changes have resulted in pricing updates to reflect the newly available equipment and options. ModelsTrim BaseHardtop 2DHardtop 4DConvertibleClubmanCountrymanCooperSignature 2.0$28,600$29,700$33,800 Cooper SSignature 2.0$32,200$33,300$37,400$34,500$34,950 Iconic 2.0$36,125$37,225$40,825$39,650$40,125Cooper S ALL4Signature 2.0 $36,600$37,475 Iconic 2.0 $41,650$42,125Cooper SESignature Plus2.0$34,225 Iconic 2.0$36,700 $46,275JCWSignature 2.0$37,800 $42,650$43,250$45,075 Iconic 2.0$40,325 $46,625$47,850$49,075 The post MINI USA Changes Packages, Brings Back the Manual and Kills Our Favorite Color for 2023 appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Resolute, Untold and Untamed Special Editions launched in March 2022 are getting a series of enhancements for 2023. MINI is adding new exterior colors, interior upholsteries, and engine variants and the Iconic Trim 2.0 across all of the Special Editions. How do they look? Let’s dig into the details. MINI Resolute Special Edition The MINI Resolute Edition, currently offered with Rebel Green body color with a Pepper White Roof and Cloth/Leatherette Black Pearl Light Chequered seats with Carbon Black Knee Rolls will now also be available with Enigmatic Black metallic body color with the same Pepper White roof on all models, or Nanuq White on the Hardtop variants with Body Color roof. Additionally, the MINI Yours Lounge Leather Carbon Black is available for $750 as an alternative upholstery. MINI Untold Edition Since July production, the Untold Edition has been available exclusively as a MINI John Cooper Works Clubman. However, after a temporary pause in availability, MINI is pleased to welcome come back the Cooper S and Cooper S All4 variants to the Untold Edition range starting in November production. The MINI Untold Edition will also pick up Midnight Black metallic with black spats as an alternative versus the original Sage Green metallic with Sage Green Dark spats. As before, the MINI Yours Lounge Leather in Carbon Black or Sage Green are available upholsteries. MINI Untamed Special Edition The Untamed Edition, which is currently available as a MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4 with Momentum Grey body, can now be ordered, finished in the new Nanuq White paint color. Both body colors will come with the black contrast roof and mirrors, along with unique Edition graphics in Matte Bluestone. The body color accents will also be found in the side skirts, bumpers, and MINI wing badges. The post MINI USA Adds Features and Colors to Its Special Editions appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

We still aren’t driving very much, but Todd just got back from Philly, Detroit Tuned is still busy, Gabe is still pivoting. Mini (yes, Mini) Heritage Recharged, which is a classic Mini that has been fully converted to electric, to MINIs specifications. Gabe was even able to drive it! We also catch up with Gabe and his trip to the UK to attended The Goodwood Revival which is a great story! He even got to meet Paul Smith and check out the MINI Strip Concept! The post White Roof Radio 686: You Aren’t Driving Fast Enough appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

And they look promising. But first background. We’ve seen MINI USA sales dip dramatically from its 2013 high before beginning to rebound a bit before COVID. Since then, it’s been a rollercoaster of highs and lows in terms of sales totals with one critical positive – dealers and MINI USA have seen profits increase substantially. That points to cars being sold for MSRP, low inventory and repeat buyers. And in Q3 we saw more evidence of that. MINI brand sales in the U.S. totaled 7,178 vehicles in the third quarter of 2022, an increase of 11.4% vs the 6,445 vehicles sold in the third quarter of 2021. But the numbers are fairly interesting and likely point to product constraints as much as anything. For instance the Countryman was down substantially – almost 30% from last year at this time while the Hatch was up a shocking 81.7%. The latter surpassed the 3,000 unit sold mark which is especially impressive given that the F56 and F55 have been on the market for almost 10 years now. The post MINI USA Q3 Sales Results Are In appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Aceman is on the road. Based on spy photos on Autocar (among others), MINI has begun testing the Aceman in Europe ahead of its 2024 launch. Of course the last time we saw the Aceman was in a lightly disguised concept form a few months ago (which you see above). But what these spy photos show (beyond how good a job MINI’s camo does) is just how similar the final car will be to the concept. In MINI’s words this is a crossover version of the iconic MINI three door hatch. In other words it bridges the gap from the new electric MINI hatch and the forthcoming (larger) 2024 MINI Countryman. What that means to us is that the MINI Aceman is almost the same size as the original R60 MINI Countryman at 4.05 meters in length, 1.99 in width and 1.59 in height. However thanks to its dedicated EV platform, the interior space will be even greater than that first generation Countryman. MINI Aceman and the Next Generation MINI Family Starting in late 2023, MINI will be releasing a new generation of cars and crossovers with a focus on all electrification. Made in the UK, a revised F56 (G66) with internal combustion (ICE) is sticking around for another handful of years (as is the manual transmission) but the focus for MINI is on electrification across the line-up. This will start with an all new electric MINI Cooper which will be made in China and will pack much more range and performance in a smaller package than the current car. That will immediately followed by both an all electric and ICE Countryman (made in Germany) and then the Chinese made Aceman you see here. An early, undisguised look at the J01 Chinese made electric MINI Cooper. This is MINI’s new design language we’ll see across the line-up. Note the camouflaged version next to it and how MINI has hidden the smaller, simpler proportions of the new car.How does the Aceman compare to the Countryman? The Aceman will sit under the forthcoming, larger Countryman while sitting on the same platform as the upcoming all electric hatch. It will also serve as a replacement to the much loved but slow selling MINI Clubman wagon. Will the MINI Aceman Be Sold in the US Market? If we read between the lines, we believe MINI is working on several strategies in parallel to keep the latest MINI products in the US market. The first would be to use several economic levers to make the next generation (Chinese made) electric MINI Cooper financially viable in the US (despite the 25% tariffs. The second is to begin a parallel sourcing of components (along with what could be a mid-cycle refresh) to bring these next generation cars to Oxford to be produced in MINI’s historical home The post First Spy Photos of MINI Aceman Appear appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

At first glance the MINI Strip seems like an lightly modified F56 Cooper S with matte paint. But go hands-on and you soon realize how radically transformed this car has been. And then you realize who’s behind this transformation; none other than fashion and design icon Paul Smith. Yes the Paul Smith that created one of the most iconic special edition Minis ever. He’s back with a collaboration that points to the future of MINI design itself. We had a chance to have a walk and talk with Paul Smith and hear how the MINI Strip came about and the ideas behind such a radical transformation. The video was a one-take, off the cuff recording that Paul himself encouraged us to publish as he felt it was the best way for the public to understand the car. That is coming from the man himself. The MINI Strip Concept As Paul Smith explained the first call with MINI didn’t go that well. But once MINI understood his vision (and realized that Paul wanted total control) it was game on. The result is the Paul Smith MINI Strip it points to the brand’s much more sustainably focused future. While this is a one-off, the MINI Strip is interesting in context to the brand’s transformation over the years. Guided by the overarching theme of ‘Simplicity, Transparency, Sustainability’, the concept showcases inspirational ideas for a more sustainable method of automotive design. The collaboration applied the concept of maximum reduction to produce a minimalist design inside and out. The exterior is full of interesting applications of that concept creating a unique aesthetic. Raw materials are a very deliberate part of the exterior design. This meant the body was left in its unfinished state with no coloured paint applied, but instead just a thin film of transparent paint to protect against corrosion. Grinding marks from the factory have been consciously left intact on the galvanized steel panels to clearly identify the car as a functional object. This intentionally rough-hewn effect was also dubbed “the perfect imperfection” by Paul Smith. These are details that are hard to appreciate in photos but in person come to life. Sections of the familiar MINI black trim are 3D-printed from recycled plastic and their basic material qualities have been left exposed, like the metal panels. Taking a cue from bikes, you see visible screws in the add-on parts, which show how simple dismantling would be and how easily the vehicle could be reincorporated into the raw-material cycle at the end of its service life. The functional and distinctive front and rear apron inserts were likewise manufactured in a 3D printing process, which produced their striking texture. The MINI STRIP holds true to the motto of ‘Simplicity and Transparency’ on the inside, too, courtesy of some radical stripping-back. All trim parts have been purposefully omitted (with the exception of the dashboard, topper pad and parcel shelf), turning the bodyshell into the dominant visual feature of the cabin. It has been coloured blue at the explicit request of Paul Smith, producing a particularly eye-catching effect. The exposed basic material and intense blue tone give the interior a raw yet functional aesthetic. Instead of the usual multi-part design, the dashboard consists solely of a large, semi-transparent section with a smoked-glass finish. Taking its cue from MINI design’s traditional use of circular elements, the geometry has been greatly simplified with a far more graphical interpretation. There is no classical centre screen just an area where the driver’s phone would be mounted. The only physical controls in the interior are located lower down in the centre stack, where the toggle switches for the power windows and the start/stop function can be found. The concept is rather straightforward in that it’s a MINI stripped down to its core. That means the only thing here are components deemed absolutely necessary. And trust us, photos don’t do this car justice. The details are inventive, unique and functionally beautiful. If this points to MINI’s future, count us in. The post Video: Paul Smith Talks to Us About the MINI Strip Concept appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI RECHARGED is MINI’s official answer for those wanting to convert their classic Minis to electric and we’ve driven it! But does it still feel like a Mini? And could it be a blueprint for other MINI electric conversions? We find out. In many ways the classic Mini was a revolution in mobility not that different than a modern electric car. It was a car that rethought everything and in the process introduced new and novel ideas to the automotive world. And they stuck, influencing almost every small to mid-size car in the decades that followed. But can it still be relevant today? In our short time with the car the answer is yes, and no. Yes because MINI Recharged as engineered the car to maintain the same weight and weight distribution as the original. Add to that immediate torque and you have a classic Mini that does 0-60 mph in six seconds and drives like the classics we all know and love. And before you ask, it could go faster but traction is the limiting factor. In our short time with the car we were blown away by how normal it all felt. The only interior giveaway is the modified shifter and vintage looking range gauge/ Otherwise you are in a classic Mini. The up-cycling is handled by MINI UK and includes a modern electric motor that generates an output of up to 90 kW and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in approximately nine seconds but can be turned up to around 6 seconds if requested. The energy is supplied by a high-voltage battery, which can be charged with an output of up to 6.6 kW and enables a predicted range of around 160 kilometers or 100 miles. The final version will have a finished boot.How Can I Get One? The 107bhp Classic Mini electric comes with 12kW battery and will cost £10,620 including VAT. However there is more cost associated with the procurement of a clear classic Mini and the actual conversion itself. All in we were quoted around £60,000 for perfect example. For the time being its only availability is in the UK market. However the company that is patterning with MINI to bring MINI Recharged to life as ambitious to open up shop in the US sometime next year. Which begs the question – what about the R50/R53 generation of new MINIs. They becoming classic cars but they have one Achilles heel – engine parts. In many ways those cars are also an ideal candidate for a conversion like this. We asked that question and stated the case that there might be a market in the US and there was general enthusiasm for the idea. But as with all things, the market will dictate the offering. So with that said would you be interested in a electric conversion of classic Mini or even an R50 or R53? Let us know below. The post FIRST DRIVE: MINI Recharged – Official Classic Mini Electric Conversion Kit appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Experiencing the Goodwood Revival is like stepping into a time machine and coming out in a dream-like, gold-tinged world of vintage motorsports. It’s a time-warp that takes the greatest hits of the 1940s, 50s and 60s motorsports and culture and creates an experience that is unlike any other in the world. Whatever expectations we had were shattered by the scale and quality of it all of every aspect of the Revival. And yes, there are Minis everywhere. Let’s back up a bit. The Goodwood Revival takes place on an estate owned by Charles Gordon-Lennox, 11th Duke of Richmond and his family. He took over the family estate in early 90’s and begun the process of refurbishing the classic 1940’s era Goodwood racetrack and introducing several motorsports events to the grounds. The famous Festival of Speed is a hill-climb that takes place on the driveway to the main house itself and nurmous other events always draw a crowd. But the Good Revival is unlike all of them. And unlike anything in the world for that matter. Yes the U.S. has the events like the Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion at Laguna Seca and the WeatherTech Challenge with Brian Redman at Road American but neither come close to the scale let alone to the vibe of the Revival. And if you want racing royalty, it’s here. I saw a good half dozen former LeMans winners along with Jackie Stewart, Jenson Button, Jimmy Johnson, Scott Dixon and Dario Franchitti roaming around the paddock ducking in and out or races. Jackie Stewart was one of many motorsports royalty in attendanceAnd yes, there are endless races pitting almost mythical vintage machinery against one another. In fact the racing itself was as good as any I’ve seen all year. But what really makes the Revival different is the atmosphere. I’ve checked a lot of motorsports boxes off over the years and I can assure you that nothing really compared to the Goodwood Revival. Part of that is the cars of course. But a funny thing happens when people dress up in period costume. The egos tend to melt away and are replaced by smiles. Everything and everyone feels accessible and simply happy to be there. And of course there are Minis. In the 1960’s the Cooper S was a giant killer not just in rallying but also in British touring car racing. Going up against both British and America sedans (yeah the massive ones), the Minis were a crowd favorite all weekend. Charlie Cooper (grandson of John Cooper) was in the mix all weekend ultimately crashing out of the last touring car race on Sunday. Along with the 24 Hours of the Nurburgring, the Goodwood Revival has been our bucket list for years so our expectations were high. But nothing prepared us for the scale and immersive quality of the weekend. The Revival had both the scale, quality of cars and attention to detail that make great vintage motorsports events. So much so that it might just be the single best vintage event in the world. A massive thanks to MINI for inviting us to attend and being incredible hosts throughout the weekend. +44(0)7740583906The post The Goodwood Revival – the Most Epic Vintage Motorsports Event in the World appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINIUSA is celebrating 20 years with the launch of tue MINI 20 Years Edition. Exclusively offered in as a four door hardtop, the MINI 20 Years Edition brings an exclusive look to a DCT equipped Cooper S with unique graphics and trim. The MINI 20 Years Edition is well eqiipped and will retail for $36,315 when it hits dealers this fall. Our quick take is that like all special editions, the MINI 20 Years Editions offers fair equipment for the money in a unique design. The big downside in our mind is that its stuck on tie most awkward looking of all MINIs – the four door hardtop. Official Release: MINI 20 Years Edition Woodcliff Lake, NJ, September 21, 2022. MINI USA today announced the launch of the MINI 20 Years Edition, in celebration of the brand’s 20 years in the U.S. The special edition has been produced as a 2023 MINI Cooper S Hardtop 4 Door and will arrive at dealers in the U.S. this month with a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of $36,315 plus an additional $850 for Destination and Handling. “We came into the industry 20 years ago when trucks and SUVs were in high demand and disrupted the mindset of America’s driving consumers,” said Mike Peyton, Vice President, MINI of the Americas. “Here we are today a small fun to drive car that still celebrates every aspect of the spirit of the MINI brand, our owner community and the passion that exists 20 years later.” Patriotic Exterior. While MINI launched in the U.S. back in 2002 in Chili Red, the MINI 20 Years Edition is available in three Patriotic colors: Chili Red, Pepper White, and Island Blue. These three body colors represent the core elements of the American and British flags, a perfect way to commemorate 20 Years in America. The exterior also features a Silver Roof and Mirror Caps as well as Piano Black trim. The bonnet includes an offset stripe accented in red, white and blue on the driver side and a star adorning the passenger side. The design is offset with a host of accessories including Side Scuttle inlays, Door Sill Plates, and C-Pillar decals. Additionally, the exterior features the 17” Tentacle Spoke black wheels wrapped in All-Season Tires. Also included are Roof Rails and the Panoramic Moonroof. Sporty Interior. The interior of the MINI 20 Years Edition features sports seats in Carbon Black Leatherette and a Nappa Leather Steering Wheel with 20 Years Edition insert. Paddle shifters support a 7-Speed Sport Dual Clutch Transmission. The interior surface features Piano Black with 20 Years graphics and Anthracite Headliner. Comfort features include Dual-Zone Automatic Climate Control, , Heated Front Seats, Storage Package, as well as Touchscreen Navigation Package, MINI Assist eCall, TeleServices, Advanced Real-Time Traffic Information, Remote Services, Apple CarPlay, Enhanced Bluetooth with USB, and a Dynamic Digital Instrument Cluster. The MINI 20 Years Edition units went into production in July 2022 and are expected to begin arriving at U.S. dealerships this month. The post MINI 20 Years Edition Launches to Celebrate MINIUSA’s Anniversary appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Official Release: From Los Angeles to Las Vegas in the MINI Electric The morning at Santa Monica beach belongs to the surfers. Looking out over the glittering Pacific waves, noisy Los Angeles on California’s southwestern coast seems very distant indeed. Nevertheless, in the MINI Cooper SE it only takes about 30 minutes from the colourful beach houses along Ocean Avenue to the eastern end of LA. Just before San Bernardino, we head north on Interstate Highway 15 to Las Vegas. Here, Route 66, legendary since the film “Easy Rider” with Paul Newman and Dennis Hopper, once took free-spirited explorers to new adventures on almost 4,000 km of highway. On the route through the green mountain landscape around Mount Baldy, the MINI Electric can really strut its stuff. While down in the valley the traffic of the metropolis almost comes to a standstill during rush hour, the MINI Cooper SE is simply a joy to drive as it corners smoothly, hugging the rode also thanks to the lithium-ion high-voltage battery (32.6 kWh gross value) installed in the floor. The brake energy regeneration system, which can be set in two stages, decelerates the car with strong energy recuperation as soon as the driver takes his foot off the accelerator in the bends. This not only makes it easy on the brakes, but also charges the battery of the all-electric MINI Cooper SE while you are driving. Speeding towards the Mojave Desert. After almost two hours, the green of the mountains has meanwhile given way to the fascinating red and brown tones of the first desert foothills and it’s time for a restorative break with Mexican tacos in Victorville. In the shade of the palm trees, the MINI Cooper SE can also be charged to 80 percent battery power in just 35 minutes at one of the fast chargers for the upcoming leg towards the Mojave Desert. In the 113,300 square kilometre Mojave Desert, temperatures average 45 °C in July and August. A very welcome refreshing option on the MINI Cooper SE is its pre-conditioning feature, which can be activated from the restaurant table using the MINI Connected remote app. This allows you to pre-cool the car’s interior. The next 150 km lead deeper and deeper into the vast, barren landscape to Baker. The small town is right in the middle of the Mojave Desert and at the southern end of the route to Death Valley National Park, one of the hottest areas in the USA. To keep an eye on the record temperatures here at all times, Baker is home to the world’s highest thermometer at 134 feet and refers to the highest temperature measured on site of 134 ° Fahrenheit, which corresponds to 57 °C. You simply can’t miss it on and it also reliably points the way to another fast charger stop. In a place like this they they naturally get their sustainable energy from solar panels, which also serve as a welcome sunshade when you plug in the charging cable. Pleasant temperatures in the hottest place in the USA. As we drive on, the highway gives us a view of the majestic mountain ranges of the Mescal Range after a few kilometres. The MINI Cooper SE was not designed exclusively for such extreme temperatures as here, but it stands up to the heat test with aplomb. The high-voltage battery remains cool, as does the interior, and the battery power drops only very gradually. The reason for this is a highly effective overall cooling system that acts particularly efficiently thanks to the integrated heat pump technology. Beyond the mountains, Interstate 15 leads straight to Paradise on the last 80 kilometres, the town immediately south of Las Vegas. Stopping at the imposing Allegiant Stadium, home of the three-time Super Bowl winning Las Vegas Raiders football team, the MINI Cooper SE can be charged with the Flexible Fast Charger charging cable for the relaxed cruise to Las Vegas. When night falls, no navigation system is needed to find your way to the legendary “strip”. Sparkling facades, a sea of neon lights and the legendary “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign reliably show where the nightlife is raging. Since it first opened, the 6.8-kilometre-long boulevard has attracted numerous show stars from Elvis Presley to Britney Spears, Elton John and Lady Gaga. Between the perfect replicas of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Egyptian pyramids and Venetian canals, the electric MINI Cooper SE finds its way almost silently to the well-deserved hotel check-in at the end of this tour. The post Los Angeles to Las Vegas RoadTrip In the Electric MINI appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

After being unavailable for better part of a year, the manual transmission will return to the MINI. According to MINI USA themselves, the parts shortage that led to the elimination of the manual transmission (among other options) is beginning to ease. The result is that we should see the option return for November production and available globally. The global semiconductor shortage and the Russian invasion of Ukraine had forced MINI into the decision to eliminate the iconic option in an effort keep production flowing. What that allowed for was a simplified production process and a focus on options and components that can be more easily maintained in its parts inventory. In MINI’s own words the move was made to “ensure production stability” for the entire range. Thankfully those days now appear to be behind us and we should see the manual transmission and as of November 2022 manual transmission production will resume for the following MINI Hardtop and Convertible models equipped: F56 MINI Cooper 2-door HardtopF55 MINI Cooper 4-door HardtopF56 MINI Cooper S 2-door HardtopF55 MINI Cooper S 4-door HardtopF56 MINI John Cooper Works 2-door HardtopF57 MINI Cooper ConvertibleF57 MINI Cooper S ConvertibleThe post The MINI Manual Transmission is Back! appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

For a MINI fan there are a few must-see attractions around the world. One, the 24 Hours of the Nurburgring we had a chance to attend earlier this year. Now we are getting a chance to experience two more in the span of as many days. First up is the spiritual home of the brand, the Oxford MINI Plant. We’ll have not just the normal guided tour but an inside look at the brand, it’s history and even how it will evolve in the future. Then it’s on to another coveted motorsport tradition – the Goodwood Revival. The Revival is nothing short of the world’s greatest historic motor race event and the only sporting event of its kind to be staged entirely in a period theme. It’s an entire weekend of the most amazing historic racing cars on earth going wheel to wheel in actual races. But it’s perhaps best known for the period correct nature of the event that requires throw-back clothing and a complete lack of technology. You can follow our experiences right here on MotoringFile.com and get quick updates on Instagram as you roam the English countryside. The post Follow Us As We Tour The Oxford MINI plant and the Goodwood Revival appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article