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Earlier this year we broke the news that the MINI Clubman was set to end production in early 2024. Almost on cue MINI announced a worldwide “Final Edition” intended to celebrate the model’s two generation run before it is gone forever. Today MINI USA is announcing availability and pricing for the special edition model celebrating the end of the Clubman. Perhaps even more importantly they’re announcing when the Clubman will end production. If you want a Clubman before they’re gone for good, you’ll want to read on. The Clubman Final Edition is a celebration and send-off for the beloved MINI shooting brake that is probably our favorite current MINI in production. Based off the MINI Cooper S Clubman All4, the U.S. Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) of the MINI Clubman Final Edition is $46,150 plus an additional $995 for Destination and Handling. The Final Edition honors the model’s heritage, from the very first Clubman offered in 1969 to the current generation MINI Clubman. The MINI Clubman Final Edition will be offered in a very limited capacity in the U.S. From a total of 1,969 units globally, fewer than 100 examples of the MINI Clubman Final Edition will be available to U.S. customers exclusively through a special pre-order reservation process. Available in Nanuq White, Enigmatic Black and Melting Silver and is available in various models depending market. With details in the color Shimmer Copper, the Final Edition has similar details to the recent Untold Edition. The surrounds and the upper third of the radiator grille crossbar are in the shimmering edition colour, as are the model-typical MINI Cooper S Blade and the side scuttles. The graphic pattern on the 18-inch light-alloy wheels in the Final Edition Spoke 2- tone design is also finished in a tinted clear lacquer reminiscent of copper. Finished in Enigmatic Black the whole thing has a classic John Player livery feel to it. The interior of the MINI Clubman Final Edition also has some unique touches. For example, the door sill trims with the edition-specific “Final Edition” lettering, which is also found on the lower spoke of the sports leather steering wheel which is finished in Nappa leather. The MINI Yours leather sports seats with adjustable thigh support and sewn-in edition badge are finished in Dark Maroon. They are set off by an anthracite-colored Piquet fabric insert and blue contrasting stitching. The MINI Clubman Final Edition will be available in Cooper S in North America and Cooper SD in Europe. Unfortunately it would appear that MINI won’t be offering the Clubman JCW in this special edition package. 2024 Model Year Special Edition Pricing MINI Cooper S ALL4 Clubman MSRPFinal Edition ContentMINI Cooper S ALL4 Clubman Final Edition MSRP$36,150 $10,000 $46,150 Final Clubman Availability and Ordering Timing Separately, MINI USA announces the broader MINI Clubman model range will be available for US customers to order up through February 2024 production, at which time ordering will end for the model range. Why Is MINI Killing The Clubman? The Clubman in particular has had a hard time finding an audience outside of Europe as small wagon sales have slowed to a crawl in many markets. And despite MotoringFile calling the F54 JCW Clubman the best all around MINI ever made, it’s been a hard sell for dealers. Especially next to the taller more SUV like Countryman. And now MINI is making the Countryman even larger while introducing a smaller electric Aceman crossover the US might not even get. It’s a sad end to our favorite car in the MINI line-up The original Clubman is a bit divisive. With the third door on the wrong side or right-hand drive markets, it was looked at as the “other” MINI even but the brand’s own marketing. While we loved the concept, it never really jelled for us as it felt too close to the R56 and didn’t find the sweet spot that the F54 ultimately did in terms of utility and performance. The F54 Clubman on the other hand has been our favorite MINI model since it’s introduction in 2015. We’ve run three of them over the years – a manual Cooper S All4, the 228 hp JCW and most recently a 306 hp JCW. While all were great cars, the 306 hp JCW Clubman might just be out favorite new MINI ever made. The post MINI USA Announces Clubman Final Edition Pricing and The Model’s End of Production Timing appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

A handful of European based press got a chance to see and ride in the new 2025 electric MINI Countryman last month at an event in Munich. While there are no driving review until later this year, this is our best look at what this new, larger Countryman and even how the electric Countryman SE performs. Autocar and Autoexpress were two of the publications that attended and have some of the best initial takes from the experience. At a high-level both came away impressed by the crossover – even in prototype form: One theme you’ll read throughout is size and space. We’ve gone into detail how the 2025 MINI Countryman. Both were immediately struck by the increase in size inside and in the cargo area. While the wheelbase is identical to the F60, the overhangs have grown – especially in the rear. That has allowed for MINI to stretch out the interior a bit while providing more luggage space. R60 Countryman (’10-’16) F60 Countryman (’17-’23)U25 Countryman (’24-’32)Length4097 mm / 161.3 in4298 mm / 169.2 in4429 mm / 174.37 inHeight1562 mm / 61.5 in1557 mm / 61.3 in1613 mm / 63.5 inWheelbase2596 mm / 102.2 in2670 mm / 105.1 in2670 mm / 105.11 inAlso inside is where you’ll find MINI’s new circular OLED based circular nine-inch touchscreen. With this system MINI is finally moving away from BMW’s iDrive system in terms of user experience. It is also allowing MINI to ditch many of the physical controls that owners are used to such as heated seats. Having experience the new iDrive which has reduced many of the same physical controls, we can only hope MINI has done it better. Luckily there are a handful of shortcut buttons that will open menus on the screen for easy access. However one thing was clear to both journalists – this new operating system is a complete departure from what MINI has had for years. Elsewhere Autocar noted that the dashboard was made of “colourful woven fibres” rather than molded, textured rubber that we seen in most if not all modern cars. That harkens back to the Aceman concept we saw last year. How Does The New Electric Countryman Drive and What’s the Range? While journalists still haven’t driven it, the ride alongs did provide some ability to judge the driving experience. Also interesting is that MINI noted an estimated range of 280 miles rather than the 240 we had heard earlier. Assuming that’s an estimated WLTP number we’d expect a US EPA number of around 218 miles. Other than that, both publications came away impressed in the driving experience from the passenger. The fact that the Countryman will only have passive dampers is a bit of a shock given that the previous generation has had them for years. However the driving experience doesn’t seem to suffer at all. It’s incredibly interesting, even from the passenger seat. Countryman driving dynamics engineer Simon Krüger went on to explain that the team think of it “like a tablecloth that we pull itin different directions to make sure we end up where we want it to be.” And this quote was particular promising; “You need to feel the road – we don’t want to banish that – but the perfect compromise is somewhere in between.” We’ll be driving the 2025 MINI Countryman in both ICE and electric flavors later this year. Until then MotoringFile be delivering exclusive details on the car, performance, options and timing. And in the meantime head over to our U25 Countryman section for all the exclusive details we’ve revealed thus far. Official Press Release: Fully electric: The next generation MINI Countryman. As a stylish all-rounder and spacious everyday companion, the MINI Countryman continues the MINI brand’s product offensive of all-electric models. With five doors and a variable-use interior, the largest model in the new MINI family of vehicles is leading the brand into an era of locally emission-free electromobility. With its optional all-wheel drive, the powerfully powered adventurer also ensures safe and unbridled driving pleasure off the beaten track. The first generation of the MINI Countryman was already an instant success for MINI, and from 2010 it expanded the model family to include a compact SUV vehicle with all-wheel drive, five doors and – for the first time in a MINI model – over four meters in length. In the first generation, the trunk of the versatile adventurer can be flexibly expanded from 370 litres to up to 1,170 litres thanks to the sliding and folding rear seat. From 2017, the second-generation MINI Countryman featured the MINI Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 as the first plug-in hybrid MINI model to offer an additional 65 kW/88 hp electric motor on the rear axle. The new generation of the largest MINI model is fully electric and locally emission-free. The MINI Countryman E delivers 140 kW/191 hp, whereas the MINI Countryman SE ALL4 is the brand’s first all-wheel-drive fully- electric vehicle. Two highly integrated drive units on the front and rear axles together generate an output of 230 kW/313 hp, including a temporary boost. The battery capacity is 64.7 kWh. With an estimated range of around 450 kilometres, the MINI Countryman feels just as comfortable in city centres as on longer distances across the countryside. With the all-electric MINI Countryman, MINI is further expanding the proportion of electrified models. Every fifth MINI is already electric today. With its length increased by 13 centimetres to 4,429 mm, the spacious adventurer offers even more space and comfort for its occupants. The height grew by almost six centimetres to now 1,613 mm, offering even more headroom. The new MINI Countryman combines locally emission-free electromobility with the greatest possible environmental compatibility in production as well. This includes dispensing with all decorative elements in the exterior and interior and manufacturing the cast light-alloy wheels from up to 70 percent secondary aluminium. In combination with the use of green electricity in production, CO2 emissions can be significantly reduced compared with conventional manufacturing processes. The surfaces of the dashboards, steering wheel, vehicle headliner and floor, and floor mats are made of recycled polyester obtained from PET bottles and carpet remnants. This high-quality, colourful and comfortable alternative to traditional materials reduces CO2 emissions along the value chain by up to 85 percent and emphasizes the focus on minimizing the ecological footprint of the next MINI model generation. The long-term sustainable strategy for energy generation and consumption of the BMW Group’s “green plant” at the Leipzig site includes four wind turbines with a height of 190 meters on the factory premises. This could generate more than 20 GWh of electricity from wind energy per year. In the Battery Farm up to 700 second-life high-voltage batteries from BMW i3 vehicles are used to store energy, such as that generated by the wind turbines. By storing the energy on the premises, local energy management can be optimised and the electrical grid kept stable. The BMW Group is expanding on-site e-component production capacity by eight production lines by 2024 and investing more than 800 million euros. The decarbonization of production by replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen is the focus of what is already one of the most modern and sustainable automotive production facilities in the world. The post MINI Shows Off the New Electric Countryman SE to the Press appeared first on MotoringFile. 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MINI USA sales continue on their upward trajectory with a 5.9% increase in Q1 of 2023. In total MINI USA sold 7,284 vehicles in the first quarter of 2023, an increase over the 6,876 vehicles sold in the first quarter of 2022. It’s an incredible feat given the age of the model line-up (some nearly a decade old) and lack of higher range EVs in the line-up. What models are the big winners in 2023? It’s an interesting because all numbers are up except for the brand’s sales leader – the Countryman. Why? Production constraints could be part of it. But the Countryman also plays in a market that’s much more crowded than the other products and is perhaps less insulated from the new models coming from rivals. Regardless it’s downright incredible to see the F56 based MINIs doing so well a full ten years into the product life-cycle. The post MINI USA Sales Up 5.9 for Q1 2023 appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The design of the J01 2025 electric MINI Cooper SE has been an open secret since the near final car was leaked in 2020 via Chinese sources. Today we have an entirely new and even more revealing look snapped at a marketing photoshoot in California. What does it show? Let’s dive in. What these photos show is a J01 MINI Cooper SE finished in Indigo Sunset Blue and 18” Night Flash Spoke 2-tone wheels. It’s a classic combo of blue and white that harkens back to the early 60’s which we absolutely love. This camouflaged version attempts to throw you off with extra large, F56 style lights and a faux Cooper S hood scoop. Neither are in the final design.The design itself is generally what we expected based on all the spy shots. Head of MINI Design Oliver Hiemler had told us to expect minimalism and simplicity and that’s what we have. There is almost a stark minimalism compared to what we’ve seen over the last decade. In short there’s no faux vents or busy creases to be found. In fact there’s really not a single design elements that doesn’t have purpose functionally. That in itself is a massive departure from most modern MINI’s save the original R50. The front overhang is regrettably still large despite the fact that this is 100% a EV. You’d think MINI would have been able to package the small electric motor back far enough to allow for the impact zone to be further set-back. Alas that doesn’t seem to be the case. Note the difference in light graphics on the adaptive LEDs vs what we see in these photos.Yet there’s a lot to like. What we see here are the standard lights and not the adaptive LEDs that will be optional. The lights are small as is the entire scale of the front-end. While it’s hard to tell without the F56 (or forthcoming F66 next to it), the J01 seen here has smaller features and we’re told feels a bit more subtle than the current MINI. Also note the large, centrally located radar module there to support L2 autonomy features. Since this isn’t a US spec car (those be coming until at least the 2027 LCI) there aren’t even side reflectors here. In fact the only design element on the side of the car (save the recessed door handle which we’ll all hate) is the tiny turn signal light on the mirror. Otherwise what we see is a simple and modern shape devoid of even the black plastic wheel arches we’ve come to know since the R50. Does the modern MINI work without those wheel arches? As long as the wheels are at least 17″ we think so. Luckily MINI agrees and there will only be 17″ and 18″ wheels offered. Around back things get funky. For us that’s a good thing but we’re sure more than a few of you won’t like the departure. Leveraging LED technology, an owner of the new J01 or F66 Cooper can change how their front and rear lights look when on and active. Want Union Jack tail lights? Or how about something more minimal? MINI will offer a number of different designs that will help owners differentiate their cars. Does it work and do you mind the radical departure from MINIs past? Let us know below. 2025 MINI Cooper SE Range & Performance The all new electric MINI Cooper will come in two flavors; the Cooper E and the Cooper SE. The E will have a 40kWh battery driving the front wheels and should see a range of around 200 miles on the WTLP testing cycle. The Cooper SE (also FWD) will have a larger 54kWh battery and should see a 240 mile range with WTLP testing. Our sources have told us that these figures are relatively conservative (as is BMW’s typical position). An important note for those comparing this to the current electric MINI hatch – that car has a 110 mile range and a 28.9kWh battery. 2025 J01 MINI Cooper E2025 J01 MINI Cooper SE2023 F56 MINI Cooper SEHorsepower181 hp215 hp181 hpRange200 miles (WLTP)240 miles (WLTP)125 miles (WLTPBattery Size 40kWh 54kWh32.6 kWhPerformance is also up with the Cooper E offering 181bhp – similar to the traditional Cooper S performance. The hotter Cooper SE will have 215bhp and should have JCW levels of performance. While we’ve heard MINI is developing a full JCW version, Autocar has a few new details. According to the publication it will feature the same 54kWh battery as the SE, will arrive in mid-2025 – around a year after the standard cars, with a focus on power over range, suggesting upgraded motors will be fitted. Expect an output around 250bhp. How Big is the J01 2025 MINI Cooper SE? Despite this clean-sheet design MINI kept the overall size extremely close to the current F56 MINI Cooper – and in fact went about 1.5? longer overall. It’s also almost an inch taller – likely due to the batteries sitting across the entire floor. However the key thing for the classic MINI Cooper are the dimensions. Here’s a quick view of how it stacks up against the last two generations of MINIs R56 MINI CooperF56 ICE MINI CooperJ01 2025 Electric MINI CooperLength3698 mm / 145.6 in3850 mm / 151.57 in3860 mm / 151.91 inHeight1407 mm / 55.4 in1414 mm / 55.67 in1435 mm / 56.49 inWheelbase2467 mm / 97.1 in2495 mm / 98.23 in2525 mm / 99.40Will The 2025 Electric MINI Cooper (J01) Come To The US? Given that the J01 is made in China, it will see a 25% tariff added to it. That’s a massive amount for a small car intended to be affordable. How could MINIUSA overcome the 25% tariff on a small car with razor thin margins? Luckily MINI now has a strategy in place. BMW is to secure UK production for the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper. We first reported the rumors of BMW building the J01 in Oxford last fall. But since that time there appears to be multiple points of confirmation that point to China being only one part of the production strategy. And perhaps more importantly the move would clear the way for the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper to eventually come to the North American market. Recently Sky News reported that BMW has secured UK government funding to help expand the Oxford Plant for the new range of electric MINIs. While an official announcement won’t likely come until late this spring, it’s believed that the investment package will be worth close to £500m – £75m of which would be from the UK Government. Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI, has previously hinted that some new generation electric MINIs will be assembled at Plant Oxford beginning in 2027. We’ve also had a source confirm that timing saying it would coincide with a refresh of the model planed in the middle of its lifecycle. This would make it an ideal time to refine the J01 and introduce it to North America, perhaps even with more range and performance. J01 2025 MINI Cooper SE Launch Dates The J01 MINI Cooper will debut at the Munich Motorshow this September. While production was to start later this year in China, rumors are pointing to it being delayed until May of 2024. Once it does start, expect sales to begin in the UK, Europe and Asia shortly after. As we mentioned above, expect a refreshed version to hit North America and other markets in 2027 and be made in the UK. J01 MINI Cooper (BEV) / ChinaStart of ProductionJ01 MINI Cooper E05/2024J01 MINI Cooper SE 05/2024J01 MINI Cooper JCW*TBDFor much more on the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper, head over to MotoringFile’s dedicated J01 section. Important note: we don’t reproduce commercial spy photos that we don’t have the rights for. However it’s unclear where these photos originally came from as we’ve heard from some sources that they originally appeared on social medial. We’ve reproduced a few of them here but to see all of them head over to our friends at Autoblog to take a look. But make you head back here for all the exclusive details you won’t get anywhere else. The post 2025 Electric MINI Cooper SE Leaked! appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Thanks to one of most reliable sources, we our first look at the U25 2025 MINI Countryman color offerings. Like those on the 2025 F66 MINI Cooper, it’s a mix of old, new and unexpected. And that palette will, for the first time, include a ’frozen” matte paint option seen on BMW’s and other brands. The 2025 MINI Countryman is a big move for MINI. Yes it’s literally big – we’ll see an additional five inches of length in total. But it’s big because it moves MINI squarely into the small, premium crossover market with both ICE and full electric options. With that MINI will beed to straddle the line between the typical MINI dynamics and appealing to a wide audience in either drivetrain. And that appeal starts with colors – plenty of them safe. With that in mind here are the 2025 MINI Countryman colors we’ve been able to confirm: Nanuq White (current)Melting Silver III (current)Legend Grey (we believe this is a medium grey)Frozen Portimao Blue (this is a matte version of a BMW color)British Racing Green (current)We also believe MINI will launch with Midnight Black II (or something similar) and the classic Chili Red as part of the core palette. The 2025 MINI Countryman Production Timing MINI will debut the 2024 MINI Countryman (labeled a 2025 in the US) in the second half of 2023 with an all-out model onslaught. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing: U25 / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 ICE Countryman11/2023U25 ICE Countryman S11/2023*U25 ICE Countryman JCW11/2023*U25 BEV Countryman E03/2024U25 BEV Countryman SE03/2024*U25 BEV Countryman JCWTBD**US market modelsWhat do you think? Is MINI playing too safe or do these colors make sense given the Countryman’s position in the line-up? If you want all the background, head to MotoringFile’s U25 2025 MINI Countryman section. The post 2025 MINI Countryman Colors Confirmed – Including MINI’s First Matte Paint Option appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI JCW Team is back for 2023 after finishing 2nd in both TC and TCA classes last year. The Indianapolis based team will be running the entire TC and TCA calendar this year with two different JCWs – including that wide bodied JCW Pro that debuted last year. The MINI JCW team for the 2023 season will consist of four full time drivers, including Clayton Williams in the #60 MINI JCW Pro and Cristian Perocarpi in the #37 MINI JCW Pro in the TC class and PJ Groenke in the #62 MINI JCW and Landon Lewis in the #63 MINI JCW in the TCA class. The MINI JCW team regulars will be joined this weekend by MINI Canada’s Alain Lauziere in the #64 MINI JCW in the TCA class. Here’s the full calendar of races for the 2023 season. March 30 – April 2: Sonoma RacewayApril 28 – 30: New Orleans Motorsports ParkMay 19 – 21: Circuit of the AmericasJune 16 – 18: Virginia International RacewayAugust 18 – 20: Road AmericaSeptember 22 – 24: Sebring International RacewayOctober 5 – 8: Indianapolis Motor SpeedwayOfficial Release: MINI JCW Race Team Kicks off Its Season This Weekend at Sonoma MINI USA and the MINI John Cooper Works Team are geared for the opening weekend of the 2023 SRO TC America series this weekend at Sonoma Raceway in Sonoma, Calif. The team finished last season as the runner up for the Manufacturer’s Championship in both the Touring Car (TC) and Touring Car A (TCA) classes. Clay Williams, driver of the #60 MINI JCW Pro, also finished the 2022 season in 2nd place in the Driver’s Championship in the TC class. The Brownsburg, Ind. -based LAP Motorsports team, which operates the MINI JCW Team, showed their strength and talent throughout the 2022 season. Clay Williams piloted the #60 MINI JCW Pro to two podium finishes at last season‘s opening weekend at Sonoma and a win at NOLA Motorsports Park. The team also took two podiums at VIR, two wins at Watkins Glen and a full sweep of both TC and TCA classes at Road America. Williams also took two podiums at Sebring. Throughout the 2022 season, the team secured seven wins and a total of 14 podiums. “We have a solid lined up of drivers returning this year to take another run at both the Manufacturers and Drivers Championships,” said Luis Perocarpi, team owner, LAP Motorsports. “We look forward to continuing to build on the rich MINI racing heritage that goes back to Monte Carlo in the 1960s.” The MINI JCW team will be supported this weekend by four qualified MINI Dealer technicians, working alongside the team during practice, qualifying and race days as part of the MINI Technician Race Crew Program. The four dealer technicians are from dealers in the Western Region, including one from Tacoma MINI, one from MINI of Seattle and two from Crevier MINI in Santa Ana, Calif. Each of them will support the team for the entire weekend at Sonoma Raceway. The race team relies on the skill and knowledge of the technicians that work, day to day on MINI, to bring that expertise to the track. The post MINI JCW Team Kicks off Its Season This Weekend at Sonoma appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI owners identify with their colors perhaps more than any other brand. It’s often the first words out of their mouth when you ask them to describe their cars. So it’s big news when a new color debuts. Today we are revealing five new colors that MINI will offer on the UK built F66 2025 MINI Cooper. First some quick background. MINI’s small car line-up will be splitting into two models; the internal combustion F66 MINI Cooper and the electric J01 MINI Cooper. The (initially) Chinese built J01 will be completely new while the UK produced F66 will be a heavily modified F56 with updated tech and a design that will mirror that of the all new J01. Thanks to sources a key part of that design is coming. F66 2025 MINI Cooper Colors Our sources have confirmed that we’ll see five brand-new colors for the F66 range. We’d expect that these colors would also carryover to the four door F65 and F67 Convertible when they are release later in 2024 and 2025. Indigo Sunset Blue (similar to the original Indie Blue)Icy Sunshine Blue (described as similar to electric blue with less vibrancy)Blazing Blue (still a mystery!)Ocean Wave Green (Green with a hint of teal – see at the top of this page above)Sunny Side Yellow (sources tell us this is a vibrant yellow) Based on how MINI has retained certain colors we believe we’ll see a few current ones continue on in this next generation. Here’s our guesstimate on what we’ll see retained: Chili RedNanuq WhiteMidnight BlackRooftop GreyThe F66 2025 MINI Cooper – What it is And When We’ll See It As you can tell by its codename, the F66 is an evolution of the F56 which is shared a chassis with. However MINI is refreshing the exterior design to better match the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper. That means we’ll see revised lights front and rear and even a fractionally shortened front overhang. The key theme appears to be creating design consistency with the future of the brand – the all electric J01 MINI Cooper. The goal is clearly to unify the design language across all models allowing consumers to have a choice that feels strictly about the propulsion system and nothing else. As you can see below MINI will start production of the heavily revised F66 in March of 2024. Deliveries should start in April (for the UK and EU) and May for the US market. F66 MINI Cooper (ICE) / Oxford, EnglandStart of ProductionF66 ICE Cooper 3 door03/2024 (07/24 – US)F66 ICE Cooper S 3 door03/2024F66 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorTBDF65 ICE Cooper 5 door07/2024 (11/24 – US)F65 ICE Cooper S 5 door07/2024F67 ICE Cooper Convertible11/2024F67 ICE Cooper S Convertible11/2024F67 ICE JCW ConvertibleTBDFor all of our reporting on the next generation F66 ICE MINI Cooper, check out the F66 section of MotoringFile. The post Exclusive: F66 2025 MINI Cooper Colors Revealed appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

We woke up and realized that it’s been quite a while since we last made a show. So, let’s get right to it since I’m also terribly late getting this one posted! Kicking things off, a quick reminder is that there is a new episode of Black Roof Radio available to download. Once we get started, the title of the show pretty much describes what we were seeing at Motoringfile when we recorded. Needless to say, we are talking a lot about electric MINIs this episode. And nerd website stuff. And, Go Motoring (#IYKYK). This is to serve as your reminder that MotoringFile is your best source for MINI news. Gabe is the only one out there, really, that has the inside track. Trust me. Add in the MINI boobs and some chatGPT and we have ourselves a show! Finally, don’t forget the OG sponsors of White Roof Radio and Motoringfile: Outmotoring.com, Cravenspeed.com, Motoringstripes.com and Detroit Tuned. The post White Roof Radio 688 appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The U25 2025 MINI Countryman is a massive move for MINI. It’s the first product that fits squarely in popular the small-cross over category which moves MINI further into the mainstream. It’s also just huge as MINIs go. Just how huge? We’ve gather final dimensions and specifications on the car that gives us our best look yet at the all new U25 MINI Countryman. The new MINI family: J01 Electric Cooper, F66 ICE Cooper, J02 Electric Aceman, U25 ICE & Electric CountrymanFirst let’s give you some context how the all new Countryman fits within the 4th generation MINI line-up. As you can see above the Countryman will once again be positioned as the largest product in the MINI range. It will also be the only platform offered by MINI with both ICE and electric power. Designed with plenty of input from the American market, it will deliver more space and utility to ever before. But can it still retain the hallmarks of the MINI brand? While we don’t yet have an answer, we have some details that give us a clue. How Big is the U25 MINI Countryman? According to MINI we’ll see some noticeable increases in length on this new Countryman. Growing mostly behind the rear wheel wheels, we’ll see an additional five inches of length in total. The added length is designed to dramatically increase the rear cargo space putting it on par with other crossovers in the category. Note the wheelbase will not be changing over the F60 which could mean an even larger front over-hang. R60 Countryman (’10-’16) F60 Countryman (’17-’23)U25 Countryman (’24-’32)Length4097 mm / 161.3 in4298 mm / 169.2 in4429 mm / 174.37 inHeight1562 mm / 61.5 in1557 mm / 61.3 in1613 mm / 63.5 inWheelbase2596 mm / 102.2 in2670 mm / 105.1 in2670 mm / 105.11 inWhat about weight? Our sources are telling us that MINI will make use of advanced chassis design and plenty of new aluminum components to reduce the weight gain you might expect with the growth in detentions. We can get an idea of weight by looking at the new BMW X1 which has a 3,750 lbs curb weight. That’s only up 24 lbs over the previous generation despite being marginally larger and being offered with more standard equipment. Given this we’d expect the next generation Countryman All4 won’t be far off the current car’s 3,726 lbs curb weight (assuming equipment levels are similar). The 2025 MINI Countryman Production Timing MINI will debut the 2024 MINI Countryman (labeled a 2025 in the US) in the second half of 2023 with an all-out model onslaught. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing: U25 / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 ICE Countryman11/2023U25 ICE Countryman S11/2023*U25 ICE Countryman JCW11/2023*U25 BEV Countryman E03/2024U25 BEV Countryman SE03/2024*U25 BEV Countryman JCWTBD**US market models The post The All-New 2025 MINI Countryman – Official Dimensions Revealed appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The U25’s FAAR platform was designed from the ground up to accommodate a battery pack and electric motor as well as ICE drivetrains. While this makes the U25 slightly less efficient compared with a skateboard chassis electric car, it offers BMW enormous flexibility in model mix. This flexibility is immediately evident when you look at the wide ranging of drivetrains and performance figures. However will the efficiency and range be enough? Let’s dive into the numbers. The 2025 Electric Countryman Range MINI will launch the Countryman with two electric configurations, one with a single motor driving the front wheels and the two motor set-up driving all four wheels. The single motor model will be knows as the Countryman E and the dual motor the Countryman SE. Countryman ECountryman SE*WLTP Range – Europe273 miles261 milesEPA Range – United States (estimated)213 miles204 miles*The SE will be the only model imported to North AmericaLeveraging the same technical layout as the X1, the Countryman E single motor variant will produce 185 hp and be offered in FWD only. The WTLP rated range for the Countryman E will be 440 km or 273 miles. The Countryman SE will see an output of 265 hp via dual motors and AWD. The 64.7-kWh t-shaped battery pack in the SE will have a range of 440 km or 261 miles. The iX1 supports DC fast-charging at up to 130 kW, which can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in only 29 minutes. Charging the iX1 via an AC charger can be done at up to 22 kW, while DC fast charging tops out at 130 kW. Countryman ECountryman SE*Horsepower185 hp (140 KW)264 hp (200 kW)Battery Size64 kWh 64 kWh*US models. **The ranges indicates different tunes for different markets. One important note about range that is almost always missed by commenters on social media. The WLTP testing protocol produces more optimistic mileage figures than EPA testing. However in our experience, real world performance often lies somewhere in the middle, a bit closer to the EPA numbers. Another important point not factored into these numbers is BMW’s historically conservative published performance numbers. Given that the EPA figures are self reported by automakers, there is some flexibility in how they test and produce numbers. Third party tests have shown brands like BMW and Porsche are often under-reporting real-world range in order to accommodate for various weather conditions. Will the range be enough for the market? Looking at comparable models (there aren’t many) it would seem that it’s on the low size but not that far off. Let’s look at a few: RangeStarting MSRPVolvo XC40 Recharge223$55,300Tesla Model Y279$53,380Kia EV6310$50,025Polstar 2270$49,800Nissan Ariya304$48,485Subaru Soltara228$46,220Mustang Mach E315$45,995Hyundai Ionic 5303$45,295Tesla Model 3272$44,380Toyota bZ4X252$43,335VW ID 4204$40,290Kia Niro253$40,875MINI Countryman SE204$37,000 (*estimated)Nissan Leaf S Plus226$36,040Hyundai Kona Electric258$34,885MINI Cooper SE (F56)114$30,895Nissan Leaf149$29,135Chevy Bolt EUV247$28,795Chevy Bolt EV259$27,495We’ve estimated the MSRP based on the historical pricing relationship between the Cooper and the Countryman. However don’t be surprised if that pricing relationship to be different as MINI is moving the Countryman up a category thanks to an increase in size increase. Of course range is only only key data point. There’s charging speed, overall efficiency and of course that ll important fun to drive data point. But that aside there’s no question the U25 electric Countryman SE will have range on the lower end of its market. Despite it bring not that far off of cars like the VW ID4 and the Nissan Leaf S Plus, will its range of just over 200 miles be enough? What do you think? Does the design, performance and quality of the MINI Countryman make up for a range that’s marginally lower than some of the competitors? The 2025 electric MINI Countryman Production Timing MINI will publicly debut the 2024 electric MINI Countryman (labeled a 2025 in the US) in the second half of 2023 along with its ICE counterparts. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing: U25 / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 BEV Countryman E03/2024U25 BEV Countryman SE*03/2024U25 BEV Countryman JCW*TBD*US market models The post The 2025 Electric MINI Countryman Range & Performance Revealed appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Last month we broke the news that the MINI Clubman was set to end production in early 2024. On cue, today MINI is announcing a special edition model celebrating the end of the Clubman. The Clubman Final Edition is a celebration and send-off for the beloved MINI shooting brake that, while never finding huge sales, found critical acclaim from owners and automotive writers alike. The MINI Clubman Final Edition in Detail The MINI Clubman Final Edition is a global special edition car which means it’s a bit more unique than what we’ve seen from specific market special editions. However make no mistake the unique Available in Nanuq White, Enigmatic Black and Melting Silver and is available as a Cooper, Cooper S, the respective diesel variants or with all-wheel drive. With details in the color Shimmer Copper, the Final Edition has similar details to the recent Untold Edition. The surrounds and the upper third of the radiator grille crossbar are in the shimmering edition colour, as are the model-typical MINI Cooper S Blade and the side scuttles. The graphic pattern on the 18-inch light-alloy wheels in the Final Edition Spoke 2- tone design is also finished in a tinted clear lacquer reminiscent of copper. Finished in Enigmatic Black the whole thing has a classic John Player livery feel to it. There’s a “1 of 1969” badge on the side of the C-pillar and the words ”Final Edition” are on the lower right of the right rear door. The interior of the MINI Clubman Final Edition also has some unique touches. For example, the door sill trims with the edition-specific “Final Edition” lettering, which is also found on the lower spoke of the sports leather steering wheel which is finished in Nappa leather. The MINI Yours leather sports seats with adjustable thigh support and sewn-in edition badge are finished in Dark Maroon. They are set off by an anthracite-colored Piquet fabric insert and blue contrasting stitching. Elsewhere there’s dark dashboard trim, which is framed by harmonizing trim strips in the matte shimmering Sage Green Dark color and the edition-specific Shimmer Copper color. On the passenger side and floor mats theres “1 of 1969” which is another reference to the limited edition nature of the model. The MINI Clubman Final Edition will be available in Cooper S in North America and Cooper SD in Europe. Unfortunately it would appear that MINI won’t be offering the Clubman JCW in this special edition package. The MINI Clubman Final Edition is available to order today and will end production as MINI winds down Clubman production in Q1 of 2024. Pricing will be announced for each market soon. Why is MINI Killing the Clubman? The Clubman in particular has had a hard time finding an audience outside of Europe as small wagon sales have slowed to a crawl in many markets. And despite MotoringFile calling the F54 JCW Clubman the best all around MINI ever made, it’s been a hard sell for dealers. Especially next to the taller more SUV like Countryman. Our 2020 F54 JCW was to this day the best MINI we’ve ever driven.And now MINI is making the Countryman even larger while introducing a smaller electric Aceman crossover the US might not even get. It’s a sad end to our favorite car in the MINI line-up The original Clubman is a bit divisive. With the third door on the wrong side or right-hand drive markets, it was looked at as the “other” MINI even but the brand’s own marketing. While we loved the concept, it never really jelled for us as it felt too close to the R56 and didn’t find the sweet spot that the F54 ultimately did in terms of utility and performance. The F54 Clubman on the other hand has been our favorite MINI model since it’s introduction in 2015. We’ve run three of them over the years – a manual Cooper S All4, the 228 hp JCW and most recently a 306 hp JCW. While all were great cars, the 306 hp JCW Clubman might just be out favorite new MINI ever made. MINI Clubman Final Edition Gallery The post World Premier: MINI Clubman Final Edition Celebrates The End of The Clubman appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Last year MINI made an all-out underdog assault on the famous 24 Hours of Nurburgring last year. While the team came up short (thanks to an overly ambitious BMW) it was an incredible effort that came together very quickly. This year the same Bulldog Racing Team is back with a revised F56 JCW and a famous driver behind the wheel. This year the team is going back to the more stock JCW form, stripping away much of the GP bodywork in the process. Modifications are mainly focused around getting the car to race spec with safety equipment and technology fitted. Additionally the interior is again completely stripped out and a dedicated suspension and AP braking system replaced the stock units. The Nürburgring Endurance Series began last weekend with Charlie Cooper (GBR), and Sebastian Sauerbrei (GER) behind the wheel in the class VT2-FWD. The four hour race saw the team complete 21 laps with a total of five pit stops required for set-up work. The team finished in 88th place out of 118 drivers in this warm-up race for the season. In two weeks, the driver duo of Charlie Cooper (GBR) and Sebastian Sauerbrei (GER) will compete again for Bulldog Racing at the second race of the Nürburgring Endurance Series on April 1, 2023. MINI Returns to the Nurburgring With New MINI JCW From Bulldog Racing The 2023 endurance season at the Nürburgring has started. On Saturday, the newly built MINI John Cooper Works from Bulldog Racing completed its first race kilometers in the “Green Hell”. The team used the season opener of the Nürburgring Endurance Series as a test under racing conditions to gain important knowledge about the new vehicle. With the starting number 468 Charlie Cooper (GBR), and Sebastian Sauerbrei (GER) started in the new MINI John Cooper Works in the class VT2-FWD. Charlie Cooper (GBR), whose grandfather John Cooper invented the Mini Cooper in 1961, celebrated his race premiere on the Nordschleife and took the opportunity to adjust to the extremely demanding track. He passed his DMSB Permit Nordschleife just the day before in the new MINI John Cooper Works. His fastest lap during the race was a 10:35.194. In a strong starting phase, the MINI John Cooper Works was able to make up many positions and Sebastian Sauerbrei drove his fastest lap in the race with a 10:10.763. In the further stages of the race, which were characterized by many accidents and Code-60 phases, the team focused on set-up work and finished the race in 9th place of 15 starters in its class. In two weeks, the driver duo of Charlie Cooper (GBR) and Sebastian Sauerbrei (GER) will compete again for Bulldog Racing at the second race of the Nürburgring Endurance Series on April 1, 2023. The post MINI Returns to the Nurburgring With New MINI JCW From Bulldog Racing appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

We all expected the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper to actually be smaller than the current F56 MINI Cooper. Sources told us for years that MINI had minimized so much in its transformation to a bespoke electric platform that we’d see something closer in size to the R56 or even the R50/53. For good or bad, we can now confirm that’s not the case. Instead we’ll get something that’s actually bigger. The all new J01 2024 electric MINI Cooper is a watershed moment of the brand. It will be MINI’s first electric vehicle on a dedicated electric platform and will represent the first total rethink since the 2001 R50. 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 improved performance, range and more MINI-like proportions. The J01 Electric MINI CooperThe F66 ICE MINI CooperDespite this clean-sheet design MINI kept the overall size extremely close to the current F56 MINI Cooper – and in fact went about 1.5″ longer overall. It’s also almost an inch taller – likely due to the batteries sitting across the entire floor. However the key thing for the classic MINI Cooper are the dimensions. And in that, MINI has made some great progress in reducing the front overhang by increasing the wheelbase. R56 MINI CooperF56 ICE & Electric MINI CooperJ01 2025 Electric MINI CooperLength3821 mm / 150.43 in3821 mm / 150.43 in3860 mm / 151.91 inHeight1414 mm / 55.67 in1414 mm / 55.67 in1435 mm / 56.49 inWheelbase2495 mm / 98.23 in2495 mm / 98.23 in2525 mm / 99.40The all new electric MINI Cooper will come in two flavors; the Cooper E and the Cooper SE. The E will have a 40kWh battery driving the front wheels and should see a range of around 200 miles on the WTLP testing cycle. The Cooper SE (also FWD) will have a larger 54kWh battery and should see a 250 mile range with WTLP testing (around 200 miles in EPA testing). That would Our sources have told us that these figures are relatively conservative (as is BMW’s typical position). An important note for those comparing this to the current electric MINI hatch – that car has a 110 mile range and a 28.9kWh battery. Performance is also up with the Cooper E offering 181bhp – similar to the traditional Cooper S performance. The hotter Cooper SE will have 215bhp and should have JCW levels of performance. You can clearly see the increase in wheelbase of the J01 in this overhead photo.J01 Electric MINI Cooper Production Timing Given the government red-tape we’re hearing about in China, we expect production of the J01 MINI Cooper to push back to May 2024 rather than November 2023. Either way it will debut at the Munich Motorshow this September. Luckily for the North American market MINI is pushing forward with plans to bring then J01 to Oxford for UK production around 2027. J01 MINI Cooper (BEV) / ChinaStart of ProductionJ01 MINI Cooper E04/2024J01 MINI Cooper SE 04/2024J01 MINI Cooper JCW*TBDFor much more on the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper, head over to MotoringFile’s dedicated J01 section. G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66 The post The J01 Electric MINI Cooper Is Bigger Than We Expected appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

BMW is to secure UK production for the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper. We first reported the rumors of BMW building the J01 in Oxford last fall. But since that time there appears to be multiple points of confirmation that point to China being only one part of the production strategy. And perhaps more importantly the move would clear the way for the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper to eventually come to the North American market. Recently Sky News reported that BMW has secured UK government funding to help expand the Oxford Plant for the new range of electric MINIs. While an official announcement won’t likely come until late this spring, it’s believed that the investment package will be worth close to £500m – £75m of which would be from the UK Government. It would be a huge boost for the UK auto industry that’s seen an exodus over the last several years. And for MINI fans it’s a huge development as it would bring the highly anticipated J01 electric MINI Cooper to key market such as the United States. When Will The Electric MINI Cooper Begin Production in the UK? Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI, has previously hinted that some new generation electric MINIs will be assembled at Plant Oxford beginning in 2027. We’ve also had a source confirm that timing saying it would coincide with a refresh of the model planed in the middle of its lifecycle. That timing makes a lot of sense to us. It would allow MINI to further refine the car and potentially even add range ahead of a US market introduction. Currently the estimated WLTP range is between 240 and 250 miles. However that translates into roughly 200 miles EPA range which is still lower than many feel comfortable with – especially in colder climates. With the addition of the J01 electric MINI Cooper, this means Oxford would be producing the ICE F66 MINI Cooper, F65 five door and F67 Convertible in total. Eventually We’d expect the Aceman to also move to UK production. Chinese Production Issues for the J01 Electric MINI Cooper The current F56 electric MINI Cooper was always meant to be a stop-gap while BMW designed and built a new one from the ground up. However to make the economics work, BMW had to find a company to partner to help defray the enormous costs associated with creating a new vehicle from scratch. That company, Great Wall Motors seemed to be the perfect choice having quickly become an expert of electrified vehicles thanks to China’s stringent laws mandating their sales. However just months after the agreement was signed, US/Chinese relations began to implode. One thing led to another and tariffs on goods were announced on both sides. For electric cars that meant a 25% tariff on any Chinese car imported to the US. For a small car with equally small profit margins, those tariffs have proven impossible for MINI USA to solve for. And now things are getting even more complex. According to ‘Manager Magazin’, a German monthly business magazine, talks are ongoing between BMW, GWM and Chinese officials about exactly what will be built at the Chinese plant in Zhangjiagang, Jiangsu province, with an annual capacity of 160,000 cars and production set to start this year. There is, however, a problem. The essential NEV (New Electric Vehicle) production license for China has yet to be signed by the authorities. The papers will now be handed over at the China Development Forum at the end of March. However, Spotlight Automotive has yet to receive the go-ahead for the already complete Jiangsu factory. How could this be happening? Given the push towards electric vehicles in China, there’s been a massive amount of start-ups over the last few years. That has created massive overcapacities, reportedly making MINI wait until one of these shoe-string budget operation fails and its precious license made available to the next inline. Ever since the founding of Spotlight Automotive in 2019, the cooperation with BMW has taken several unexpected turns. GWM decided, for instance, not to sell its own rebadged MINI clone in China after all; production of US-bound MINI models is to be shifted from Zhangjiagang to Oxford; and the JV reportedly covers only the first two lifecycles. With MINI’s volume target rising from 293,000 to 500,000 annual sales this decade, other plants were invited to make a case for investment. As we now know, Plant Oxford put forward the winning argument and so BMW will be refitting the factory to assemble the new generation ICE and EV models side by side. What This Means for The Next Generation Electric MINIs? Oxford, England (SOP 11/23)Leipzig, Germany (SOP 11/23)China (SOP 11/23)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 CountrymanJ05 Electric AcemanG65 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 Electric Countryman SJ05 Electric Aceman SG67 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 Electric Countryman JCWJ05 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 2027In short the recent developments have made it clear that MINI is committed to bringing the J01 electric MINI Cooper and J05 MINI Aceman to such markets as the US. While it’ll still be 2-3 years before we see the change, that time will allow for MINI to further refine both cars, improving them both as they become fully global cars. The post Rumor: BMW to Build New Electric MINI Cooper in the UK Paving the Way for US Imports appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

There’s no way of getting around it. Global politics can be difficult to plan for. The plan for BMW to build all electric MINIs in China (taking advantage of lower costs, and Chinese expertise) made sense on paper when it was conceived five years ago. But since then the world has changed and the unfortunate outcome of that change is that the electric MINI Cooper currently sold in the US will die later this year with no immediate successor. The current electric MINI Cooper was always meant to be a stop-gap while BMW designed and built a new one from the ground up. However to make the economics work, BMW had to find a company to partner to help defray the enormous costs associated with creating a new vehicle from scratch. That company, Great Wall Motors seemed to be the perfect choice having quickly become an expert of electrified vehicles thanks to China’s stringent laws mandating their sales. The J01 electric MINI Cooper and J02 electric MINI AcemanHowever just months after the agreement was signed, US/Chinese relations began to implode. One thing led to another and tariffs on goods were announced on both sides. For electric cars that meant a 25% tariff on any Chinese car imported to the US. For a small car with equally small profit margins, those tariffs have proven impossible for MINI USA to solve for. Because of this, sources tell us that MINI USA will not be importing the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper or J02 electric MINI Aceman in its current form. But what about the current F56 electric MINI? Couldn’t it just continue to be made and sold in the US? The issue with that is MINI’s plans to heavily evolve the F56 into the F66 never included a fully electric version when they were hatched years ago. And why would they? The brand had an entirely new and much more efficient electric platform to be launch simultaneously in the J01. BMW simply didn’t see the US/China geo political saga coming and thus didn’t plan for it. The result will be painful for MINI dealers and would be owners in the US. When the 2024 model year is over (which should be at the end of 2023), the electric MINI Cooper SE will be dead. And with it all of MINI’s electric offerings in the US. The J01 electric MINI Cooper, J02 electric MINI Aceman and the U25 electric MINI CountrymanThere Is Hope for An Electric MINI Cooper in the US – Eventually There is hope that we’ll see the J01 and J02 eventually. Rumors have been swirling that BMW and the UK government are working on a major investment in the Oxford plant that will lay the groundwork to build a revised J01 MINI Cooper and J02 MINI Aceman in a few years for global export. But those rumors have yet to be verified and even if they were, plans like that take years to come to fruition. Oxford, EnglandLeipzig, GermanyChina (GWM)G56 ICE Cooper 3 doorU25 ICE CountrymanJ01 Electric Cooper 3 DoorG56 ICE Cooper S 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman SJ01 Electric Cooper S 3 DoorG56 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman JCWJ01 Electric Cooper JCW 3 DoorG55 ICE Cooper 5 doorU25 Electric CountrymanJ02 Electric AcemanG55 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 Electric Countryman SJ02 Electric Aceman SG57 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 Electric Countryman JCWJ02 Electric Aceman JCWG57 ICE Cooper S ConvertibleG57 ICE JCW ConvertibleFor 2024 the next generation MINIs will be built in three plants however the product mix might shift in 2027The U25 electric MINI CountrymanMINI USA’s Solution – The U25 Electric MINI Countryman SE The J01 and J02 aren’t the only electric MINIs in the brand’s future product planning. Perhaps the most important electric next generation MINI is coming to the US. Sources tell us that MINI USA will indeed be importing the German made, U25 electric MINI Countryman. While it’s not the electric MINI Cooper that has become a cult hit in the US, the electric Countryman will have a dramatically improved range and loads more utility for a market that seems to cherish space. Along with the ICE (internal combustion engine) Countryman S and Countryman JCW, the Countryman SE is expected to be the brand’s best selling product in the US market. The J01 electric MINI Cooper, J02 electric MINI Aceman and the U25 electric MINI CountrymanThe U25’s FAAR platform was designed from the ground up to accommodate a battery pack and electric motor as part of the brand’s plans to transition all products over the next decade. Assuming MINI will be leveraging the same technical layout as the BMW X1, we should see a dual motor, all wheel drive electric Countryman have a peak output of 268 bhp. The power comes from a modest 64.7-kWh t-shaped battery pack that produces 266 miles of range using the WLTP testing protocol. That would likely translate into something around 240 miles using the EPA testing. The iX1 supports DC fast-charging at up to 130 kW, which can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in only 29 minutes. Note the size difference between the J02 MINI Aceman and the U25 MINI CountrymanIt’s worth noting that BMW of North America decided against importing the BMW iX1 to the US. While there’s never been an official rational for that move, sources tell us that the cost vs range ratio wouldn’t have made it particularly attractive. Could the same calculations keep the electric Countryman from the US? Given that the J01 Cooper and the J02 Aceman won’t be coming stateside for awhile and the F56 based electric MINI is as good as dead, we’d be surprised if MINI USA didn’t import the dual motor Countryman SE. Given the models popularity in the US and increasing brand association with electrification, it would make sense to us even if were a lower volume, higher priced model. It’s an awkward reality for MINI that the brand has stated its intentions to become full electric, yet it’s killing its only electric model for sale in one of its largest markets. While the electric MINI Countryman will allow it to save face, for many of the brand’s most faithful fans, it’s likely not going to be a satisfying replacement. For that we’ll have to wait for a few years and hope that the rumors or a shift to UK production for the J01 and J02 is true. The post The Electric MINI Cooper is Dead in The US – But More Electric MINIs Are Coming appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

MINI is officially previewing the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper this week and talking about details for the first time. Along with showing the camouflaged car, MINI announced several key bits of news namely the range and a revised name. For MotoringFile readers both will be old news but this is our first official confirmation of some key data. Let’s start with the name. As we reported last year, MINI will be exclusively using the name “Cooper” for its smallest family of cars. 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 widely known as the “Cooper” (whether MINI likes it or not). It also further separates the iconic hatch from the Countryman and Aceman by making the Cooper name exclusive. The all new electric MINI Cooper will come in two flavors; the Cooper E and the Cooper SE. The E will have a 40kWh battery driving the front wheels and should see a range of around 200 miles on the WTLP testing cycle. The Cooper SE (also FWD) will have a larger 54kWh battery and should see a 240 mile range with WTLP testing. Our sources have told us that these figures are relatively conservative (as is BMW’s typical position). An important note for those comparing this to the current electric MINI hatch – that car has a 110 mile range and a 28.9kWh battery. Performance is also up with the Cooper E offering 181bhp – similar to the traditional Cooper S performance. The hotter Cooper SE will have 215bhp and should have JCW levels of performance. While we’ve heard MINI is developing a full JCW version, Autocar has a few new details. According to the publication it will feature the same 54kWh battery as the SE, will arrive in mid-2025 – around a year after the standard cars, with a focus on power over range, suggesting upgraded motors will be fitted. Expect an output around 250bhp. J01 MINI Cooper (BEV) / ChinaStart of ProductionJ01 MINI Cooper E11/2023J01 MINI Cooper SE 11/2023J01 MINI Cooper JCW*TBDProduction will start later this year in China and sales will begin in the UK, Europe and Asia shortly after. According to sources familiar with MINI’s plans, the North American market will not get the initial iteration of the all new electric MINI Cooper or Aceman. Instead we’ll see an updated version in several years likely built in the UK or Europe. For much more on the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper, head over to MotoringFile’s dedicated J01 section. G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66G56 G66 The post MINI Confirmes 240 Mile Range for New Electric MINI Cooper appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The U25 2025 MINI Countryman is set to be the largest MINI of all time and likely the companies biggest seller in the years ahead. Its importance to the brand cannot be overstated in terms of projected sales. But how different is this new Countryman to its predecessors and how can it live up to the MINI heritage while growing in size? We’ve collected our notes from sources around the world to bring an in-depth look at the 2025 MINI Countryman. The new MINI family: J01 Electric Cooper, F66 ICE Cooper, J02 Electric Aceman, U25 ICE & Electric CountrymanFirst let’s give you some context how the all new Countryman fits within the 4th generation MINI line-up. As you can see above the Countryman will once again be positioned as the largest product in the MINI range. It will also be the only platform offered by MINI with both ICE and electric power. Designed with plenty of input from the American market, it will deliver more space and utility to ever before. But can it still retain the hallmarks of the MINI brand? While we don’t yet have an answer, we have some details that give us a clue. How Big is the New 2025 MINI Countryman? Riding on the same FAAR platform as the BMW X1, the U25 Countryman will grow in a very noticeable way. As you can see in the photos it’s clearly longer and taller than the current F60 Countryman. Based on these photos and our sources, the all new 2024 MINI Countryman will be about 203 mm (almost 8 inches) larger – mostly in the rear. With the second generation F60 Countryman, MINI chose to modify the UKL chassis to give it slightly more MINI proportions over its corporate twin, the BMW X1. With the U25 Countryman, our sources tell us that we’ll see a car that more closely follows the BMW X1 in overall size. This change will give the U25 a larger cargo area and more rear legroom than its predecessor the F60. It will also allow the forthcoming MINI Aceman, roughly the size of the original R60 Countryman, to slot in below it in the line-up. What about weight? Our sources are telling us that MINI will make use of advanced chassis design and plenty of new aluminum components to reduce the weight gain you might expect with the growth in detentions. We can get an idea of weight by looking at the new BMW X1 which has a 3,750 lbs curb weight. That’s only up 24 lbs over the previous generation despite being marginally larger and being offered with more standard equipment. Given this we’d expect the next generation Countryman All4 won’t be far off the current car’s 3,726 lbs curb weight (assuming equipment levels are similar). Design Changes For the 2024 MINI Countryman MINI is making the next generation Countryman look and feel more rugged. Based on sources who have seen the finished product, portions of the U25 Countryman will feature a more squared-off shape with rugged design elements. The plastic trim around the wheels will be smaller but the fenders will extend that element with an additional flared shape. Additionally we’ll see other elements will play up the rugged theme. We’ve even heard that the forthcoming 2025 JCW Countryman will feature two huge foglight integrated into the front bumper. There will also be areas that the U25 will grow more sleek and aero efficient. The silhouette in the front will, the angle of the windshield and the rear hatch have been tweaked to create a more slippery shape helping with range on the electric Countryman. The BMW X1 has a surprisingly good 0.26cd with some of these same design choices. Left: The standard LED version. Right: The optional LED matrix lights.2025 MINI Countryman Lighting Options In front there will be two different headlights offered. The standard will be a LED design with similar design theme to the current car (above left). The optional LED matrix lights will not only offer a completely different light graphic but will be offer new technology that not only better illuminates the road but is more aware of on-coming traffic. While we don’t know all the details, we do know that similar lighting is used by other automakers to allow high beam functionality while not dazzling oncoming traffic. They’ll also have a new signature graphic with a light-bar running horizontally across the middle. If you look closely at the spy photos of the J01 and F66 you can see a similar design meaning we’ll likely see this look across the entire MINI family.. Around back you can just make out the larger taillights which look both more technical in design and could house some form of LED personalization similar to what we’re seeing on the new ICE and EV Cooper. What is LED personalization? From our sources it’s a way for, MINI owners to change how their front and rear lights look when on and active. Want Union Jack tail lights? Or how about something more minimal? MINI will offer a number of different designs that will help owners differentiate their cars. 2024 MINI Countryman Power, Performance and Range There are no clean-sheet designs in the internal combustion world these days and there’s no exception here. Every petrol powered engine is a revision of an existing one. So things will look familiar but numbers will rise slightly. Based on what we know about the evolved three and four liter family of engines from BMW, we should see something close to the following The Countryman With MINI saving the “Cooper” model for the smaller MINIs moving forward, the base model will simply be known as the Countryman. We expect MINI to use the 1.5 three cylinder engine in the base model with different tunes ranging from 137 hp to 170 hp. We believe the 170 hp version will be used for the North American market. The Countryman S The Countryman S will feature a 2.0 four cylinder with varying tunes; 170 hp and 206 ft-lbs and 218 hp and 265 ft-lbs. Again the more powerful version will likely form the basis for the Countryman S in the US and other markets. The Countryman JCW The U25 Countryman JCW will carrier over its 2.0 four cylinder but will have an increased output. Sources tell us to expect 330 hp coupled with a mild hybrid system that enables a further burst in power. All petrol engines will get a 48 volt mild hybrid system and will be mated to a revised 7-speed dual clutch with an all new gear selector design. Unsurprisingly the manual transmission will be eliminated in all ICE models. A revised All4 all-wheel drive system will continue to be optional across the range and standard on the Countryman JCW. The Electric Countryman SE/JCW The U25’s FAAR platform was designed from the ground up to accommodate a battery pack and electric motor as part of the brand’s plans to transition all products over the next decade. We’ve heard whispers that MINI plans to sell two versions of the electric Countryman, one with a single motor driving the front wheels and the two motor set-up described above. That might mean the dual motor layout could be branded as a JCW model given the performance potential. But as of yet, we haven’t confirmed those whispers. Again the BMW X1 (in this case the iX1) gives us a clue. Assuming MINI will be leveraging the same technical layout (which we’ve heard is the plan), we should expect a dual motor, all wheel drive electric Countryman to have a peak output of 308 horsepower and 364 pound-feet of torque. Potentially branded as a JCW, the power comes from a modest 64.7-kWh t-shaped battery pack that produces 266 miles of range using the WLTP testing protocol. That would likely translate into something around 240 miles using the EPA testing. The iX1 supports DC fast-charging at up to 130 kW, which can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in only 29 minutes. Charging the iX1 via an AC charger can be done at up to 22 kW, while DC fast charging tops out at 130 kW. It’s worth noting that BMW of North America decided against importing the BMW iX1 to the US. While there’s never been an official rational for that move, sources tell us that the cost vs range ratio wouldn’t have made it particularly attractive. Could the same calculations keep the electric Countryman from the US? Given that the J01 Cooper and the J02 Aceman won’t be coming stateside for awhile and the F56 based electric MINI will likely die in the transition to the F66 generation, we’d be surprised if MINI USA didn’t important the Countryman SE. Given the models popularity in the US and increasing brand association with electrification, it would make sense to us even if were a lower volume, higher priced model. We also don’t know where MINI much less MINI USA will price it at this point. But we do know that it’s destined for production next year. 2024 MINI Countryman – New Technology and Autonomous Features Based on the underlying Android Auto technical framework, MINI is introducing a massive circular display that will be the literal and figurative centerpiece of the brand’s tech moving forward. Looking at the spy photos of the interior the second think you notice (after the giant screen of course) is the lack of switch gear and a very different console design than what we’re used to seeing. Of course the switchgear is there but it’s been re-routed into a temporary space where cupholders will ultimately be. Final, non-camouflaged version as seen in the U25 electric MINI Cooper 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. The gear selector (which will be almost identical to BMWs) is actually not here in production form but will be a small lever or toggle where the white plastic is in the top photo. Also gone is the iDrive multi-function controller. In it’s place will be a digital experience that’s more touch-based and (we’re told) easier to use. We expect MINI to eventually rollout an optional Level 2 autonomous driving features for all of the brand’s next generation cars. Level 2 allows for the car to use adaptive cruise as well as follow the clearly marked roads with hands on the wheel. Keep in mind this isn’t just a lane keeping function but technology that will follow the road as it curves. This is optional on most BMWs currently. But what will be really exciting is L2+. While it’s unclear if we’ll see this at launch, we do eventually expect Level 2+ to be part of the G60 product plans. The system will likely be identical to BMW’s new L2+ system which allows for hands-free driving up to 81 mph an hour (130 KPH) making it massively more helpful for the majority of drivers and likely to be used much more. While MINI drivers are more likely to want to drive their cars, it’s hard to argue with a robot taking over duties on long, straight highway drives. The 2025 MINI Countryman Production Timing MINI will debut the 2024 MINI Countryman (labeled a 2025 in the US) in the second half of 2023 with an all-out model onslaught. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing: U25 / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 ICE Countryman11/2023U25 ICE Countryman S03/2024U25 ICE Countryman JCW11/2023U25 BEV CountrymanTBDU25 BEV Countryman S03/2024U25 BEV Countryman JCWTBDThe obvious surprise here is that MINI will be staggering the launch of the ICE models but in a way not expected. They’re launching with the base and the top of the line JCW models. The model that will likely be the biggest seller in many markets, the Countryman S, will arrive in March of 2024. However not surprisingly MINI will be waiting to launch the electric Countryman (likely called the Countryman E) with production beginning in March of 2024. Will it all be worth the wait? While this will be a larger Countryman, MINI is going to great pains to keep weight down – at least on the ICE models. Combine that with a revised, adjustable height suspension, advanced traction control and more power and we could have something that punches below its weight in the new U25 2025 MINI Countryman. What do you think? Does the larger, more powerful 2025 Countryman appeal to you? Or has MINI gone too maxi? 2025 MINI Countryman Gallery The post Exclusive Report: the 2025 MINI Countryman In-Depth Preview appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

It’s that time of year again. MINI USA is taking the wraps off of the 2023 Golden Bulldog Awards winners. The Golden Bulldog Awards highlight the best MINI dealerships in the US in terms of sales service and overall customer experience. All 104 MINI dealers in the U.S. were measured on six different sales and aftersales Key Performance indicators (KPIs) based on the company’s Balanced Score Card (BSC) Index. Winners outperformed their peers across these categories throughout 2022. Without further ado, here’s the list of the best MINI dealers in the US. Official Release: MINI USA announces 2023 golden bulldog award winners, highlighting the best mini dealerships in the u.S. MINI USA announced today its second annual Golden Bulldog award winners, recognizing 11 of its top-performing MINI dealers across the U.S. for delivering exceptional results in sales, service and customer experience. The name of the award is inspired by the iconic bulldog stance and spirit that is reflected in the modern MINI. In its second year since the award’s inception the Golden Bulldog award is the highest honor a MINI dealer in the U.S. can receive for their overall operational performance, delivery of a best-in-class customer experience, and clear and consistent brand representation. 2023 MINI Golden Bulldog Award Recipients (listed in alphabetical order) 1. Dreyer and Reinbold MINI7. MINI of Mt. Laurel2. Flow MINI8. MINI of Omaha3. MINI Mall of Georgia9 MINI of St. Louis4. MINI of Annapolis10. Schomp MINI5. MINI of Austin11. South Shore MINI6. MINI of Marin The post MINI USA Announces 2023 Golden Bulldog Award Winners, Highlighting the Best MINI Dealerships in the U.S. appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

A month ago we told you that the all new 2024 MINI Countryman was coming sooner than you might think. Today MINI is making that a reality by taking the wraps almost off of the 2024 electric Countryman. Yes you read that right. The electric Countryman will sit along side the ICE model and will be the first MINI product designed from the outside for electrification. And it will also be the first model made entirely in Germany. In electric or petrol flavors, the new U25 Countryman will be larger in every dimension and with loads more technology onboard, the new model will move MINI into direct competition with the ultra competitive small crossover segment. MINI will debut the 2024 MINI Countryman (labeled a 2025 in the US) in the second half of 2023 with an all-out model onslaught. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing: U25 / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 ICE Countryman11/2023U25 ICE Countryman S03/2024U25 ICE Countryman JCW11/2023U25 BEV CountrymanTBDU25 BEV Countryman S03/2024U25 BEV Countryman JCWTBDYou can read our full report on the 2024 Countryman (with countries exclusive details ) here. Once you’re done come back and read MINI’s full press release on the 2024 electric Countryman and it’s German origins. Official Release: MINI Previews the Next Generation 2024 Electric Countryman MINI’s fully electric future will start in 2023 with, among other things, the new MINI Countryman at the BMW Group plant in Leipzig. This will be the first time that a MINI model is produced entirely in Germany. The locally emission-free all-rounder is an excellent fit for the BMW Group’s sustainable production site in Leipzig, one of the most modern and sustainable automotive factories in the world. As the company’s pilot project for establishing a “green plant,” a long-term, sustainable strategy for energy generation and consumption comes into play here. “We are delighted to be able to hand over the first MINI “Made in Germany” to our customers in a CO2-neutral manner thanks to the plant’s sustainable energy supply. In this way, the new all-electric MINI Countryman demonstrates what the brand stands for: electrified go-kart feeling and a strong focus on a minimal environmental footprint,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI. Petra Peterhaensel as Plant Director and Sonja Hengstler as Project Manager for the new MINI Countryman are responsible in Leipzig for the transformation toward more electromobility and sustainable production of the E-components as well as the entire vehicles. A core workforce of 5,600 employees produces around 1,000 vehicles every day. The new MINI Countryman comes off the production line in Leipzig together with the BMW 1 Series, BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé and BMW 2 Series Active Tourer. This makes the location the first plant at which vehicles of the BMW and MINI brands are manufactured together, once again demonstrating maximum flexibility. Electromobility as a driver. The expansion of electromobility is an integral part of the BMW Group’s sustainability strategy. Today, one in five MINI models is already electrified, a testament to MINI fans’ enthusiasm for locally emission-free driving fun. The next major milestone and stimulus for the plant is the production of the new MINI Countryman, which will roll off the production line in Leipzig from the end of this year. The high-voltage batteries for the all-electric MINI Countryman will then come from the plant’s own production facilities. To this end, the BMW Group is expanding its capacities for e-component production at the Leipzig site by eight production lines by 2024 and investing more than 800 million euros. The future production area of 150,000 square meters on which E-components will be manufactured represents a sustainable investment in the future viability of the Leipzig plant. The expansion is associated with job security and even job growth. By 2024, more than 1,000 employees are to be employed in E-component production. Long-term commitment to sustainability. Sustainability is in the genes of the plant Leipzig. Part of the energy required for automotive production can be generated by four wind turbines 190 meters high directly on the Leipzig plant site. In 2021, 21.9 GWh of electricity was generated from wind power. This corresponds to the annual electricity consumption of over 5,000 3-person households. Since 2017, the electricity generated can be temporarily stored in the battery storage farm in up to 700 high-voltage batteries from BMW i3 models. “Our Leipzig vision is the complete decarbonization of production by replacing fossil fuels with hydrogen. At the BMW Group plant in Leipzig, we are the first automotive plant in the world to use a newly developed burner technology in our paint shop that can use green hydrogen instead of natural gas. Hydrogen has already been used in plant logistics since 2013. Today, five hydrogen filling stations provide energy for over 130 fuel cell-powered industrial trucks, the largest fleet in Germany,” emphasizes Plant Director Petra Peterhaensel. As the brand’s largest model, the all-electric MINI Countryman leads the new MINI family into an era of locally emission-free electromobility. The transformation to an all-electric brand by 2030 begins with this model generation. Thanks to space-saving components such as the particularly flat high-voltage battery, which is also produced at the BMW Group Plant Leipzig, the MINI Countryman will offer additional space and even greater comfort in the future. 2024 Electric Countryman Photo Gallery The post Breaking: MINI Previews the Next Generation 2024 Electric Countryman appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Aceman is the brand’s first all new model in over a decade effectively replacing the beloved Clubman. It’s also the brands first crossover designed and built from the ground up as a full electric car. Previewed in the form a concept last year, its now been seen in arctic undergoing the typIcal BMW testing protocol giving us our best look yet at the baby crossover. With the next generation U25 Countryman growing in size, there’s plenty if room in the line-up for a smaller crossover. How small is it? 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. Will It Be Sold In North America? 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 is 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)F66 ICE Cooper 3 doorU25 ICE CountrymanJ01 EV Cooper 3 DoorF66 ICE Cooper S 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman SJ01 EV Cooper S 3 DoorF66 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorU25 ICE Countryman JCWJ01 EV Cooper JCW 3 DoorF65 ICE Cooper 5 doorU25 EV CountrymanJ02 EV AcemanF65 ICE Cooper S 5 doorU25 EV Countryman SJ02 EV Aceman SF67 ICE Cooper ConvertibleU25 EV Countryman JCW*J02 EV Aceman JCW*F67 ICE Cooper S Convertible––F67 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 electric J01 Cooper and U25 Countryman start production in November 2023. The J01 MINI Aceman should follow shortly after in late 2024. MINI Aceman Photo Gallery The post Electric MINI Aceman Caught Winter Testing appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

While many of us are looking ahead at the massive changes MINI is about to make with the brand, there’s still one more year of production to be focused on. And today MINI USA has taken the wraps off of the subtle changes and 2024 model year prices that will close out the current generation of products. And even though this is the last year of production for these models, MINI USA has made some interesting equipment changes to the line-up. It’s worth noting that MINI USA uses model years very differently than the rest of the world. In the UK and Europe the calendar year is directly tied to the model year. However in the US there’s a bit of grey area that allows brands to market cars made and sold in the 2023 calendar year as 2024 models. That’s why we’re talking about 2024 model year MINIs in February of 2023. That aside there are some interesting changes for the 2024 model year that will appeal to enthusiasts. Yes the manual transmissions are back in four more models making seven in total within the line-up. Also back is the Untamed, Untold and Resolute special editions. Due to popular demand MINI USA is continuing production into 2024 model year. Another big addition across the range is the re-introduction of the classic trim which will effectively lower the MSRP on all models. However gone are the days when the Oxford Edition sold for just over 20k. The starting price of the base MINI Cooper in Classic Trim is now $25,800. Still a fair car for the money in our eyes but a notable shift. Read all the details in the official release below. Official Release: MINI USA Announces 2024 MINI Prices One of the most exciting announcements within the MY 2024 updates is the continued production of the MINI Untamed, Untold and Resolute special edition models. These special editions, which span the full model lineup, were launched in March 2022 and received additional enhancements with November 2022 production that included new body colors, interior upholsteries, and engine variants. These three Special Editions are available on the respective models equipped with the Iconic Trim. Among the most prominent additions to the MINI MY 2024 lineup is the return of more hardtop and convertible models available with manual transmissions. As of November 2022 production, MINI USA announced the return of manuals in its Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works 2-door hardtops. MINI is now pleased to announce four additional models that will be available with a manual transmission. They include: MINI Cooper ConvertibleMINI Cooper S ConvertibleMINI Cooper 4-Door HardtopMINI Cooper S 4-Door HardtopOrdering for these four additional models opened February 3 and will begin production March 1, bringing the total count of MINI models offered with a manual transmission to seven. Additional Highlights: As part of the MY 2024 updates, MINI USA will also reintroduce the base Classic Trim to all Hardtop, Clubman and Countryman models. The Signature Trim will also now feature MINI Navigation as included equipment, with Advanced Real Time Traffic Information built in. The model year change comes with a host of updates across all models and trims including standard features and new option availability. Below is a summary of those updates and changes. The MINI Hardtop 2 Door, MINI Hardtop 4 Door & MINI Convertibles In addition to the return of available manual transmission in the MINI Convertibles and 4-door Hardtops, the following changes apply. Now Available: Classic Trim The Classic Trim is now an option for the MINI Hardtop 2 Door and 4 Door, available in Chili Red, or an upgrade to Nanuq White or Midnight Black II can be added. The Classic trim remains unavailable on the MINI Convertible, as well as the Iconic Trim in the Cooper variant of the Convertible. Cooper SE Interiors: Upholstery Package The all-electric Cooper SE models with the Signature Trim will now offer the Upholstery Package upgrade, following the examples of the rest of the MINI Hardtop 2-Door range. The MINI Countryman and Clubman Now Available: Classic Trim The Classic Trim is also an option for MINI Clubman and Countryman models in Chili Red, or an upgrade to Nanuq White or Midnight Black II can be added. Cooper SE ALL4 Trim Enhancements: More to Offer The MINI Cooper SE ALL4 PHEV is now available with Signature Trim 2.0. This new entry level trim brings an attractive price and offer for those looking for a dual-fuel powertrain. Iconic Trim 2.0 also adds Power Tailgate, Parking Assistant, and Active Cruise Control. Cooper Countryman: Classic Trim The Cooper Countryman and Cooper Countryman ALL4 are exclusively available as Classic Trim only. The MINI Special Editions Untamed Edition The MINI Untamed Edition is available in Nanuq White, or Momentum Grey on the Cooper S, Cooper S ALL4, or Cooper SE ALL4 Countryman as an add on to the Iconic Trim. Untold Edition The MINI Untold Edition is available in Sage Green or Midnight Black II on the Cooper S, Cooper S ALL4, or JCW ALL4 Clubman as an add on to the Iconic Trim. Resolute Edition The MINI Resolute Edition is available in Nanuq White, Enigmatic Black, or Rebel Green on the Cooper S and Cooper SE Hardtop 2-Door, Cooper S Hardtop 4 Door, and Cooper S Convertible as an add on to the Iconic Trim. 2024 MODEL YEAR PRICING* U.S. pricing for the MY 2024 MINI Model lineup is as follows: MODEL / VARIANTCLASSIC TRIMSIGNATURE TRIMICONIC TRIMMINI Hardtop 2 Door Cooper Hardtop 2 Door$ 25,800$ 30,800$ 33,200Cooper S Hardtop 2 Door$ 29,100$ 33,700$ 37,500Cooper SE Hardtop 2 Door$ 30,900$ 34,225$ 36,700John Cooper Works Hardtop$ 35,400$ 39,800$ 43,400MINI Hardtop 4 Door Cooper Hardtop 4 Door$ 26,800$31,800$ 34,200Cooper S Hardtop 4 Door$ 30,100$ 34,700$ 38,500MINI Convertible Cooper ConvertibleN/A$ 35,700N/ACooper S ConvertibleN/A$ 38,400$ 42,000John Cooper Works ConvertibleN/A$ 44,900$ 48,500MINI Clubman Cooper S Clubman$ 34,050$ 36,750$ 40,750Cooper S ALL4 Clubman$ 36,150$ 38,850$ 42,900John Cooper Works Clubman ALL4$ 42,400$ 45,100$ 48,900MINI Countryman Cooper Countryman$ 32,650N/AN/ACooper Countryman ALL4$ 34,150N/AN/ACooper S Countryman$ 32,900$ 35,500$ 40,400Cooper S Countryman ALL4$ 35,000$ 37,500$ 42,400Cooper SE Countryman ALL4 (PHEV)N/A$ 42,700$ 48,600John Cooper Works Countryman ALL4$ 43,800$ 46,000$ 50,100*Above pricing does not include $995 for Destination & Handling. The post MINI USA Announces 2024 Model Year Prices and Equipment Updates appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

In a surprising move, MINI is announcing the launch of the 2023 electric MINI convertible following the successful preview of pre-production concept last summer. The highly limited production is set for one year of production and will be limited entirely to European sales. Limited to just 999 cars the electric MINI Convertible Cooper SE takes the basic formula from the electric MINI Cooper SE hardtop with no mechanical changes. The move highlights MINI’s flexibility in a new as this is the first small series production of an electric vehicle for the brand. The MINI Cooper SE Convertible will be produced alongside the conventional MINI Convertible in the Netherlands. With 1 in 5 MINIs sold in Europe electric, the electric MINI Convertible Cooper SE is both a stop-gap between two generations and a sign of things to come. MINI’s move to an all electric line-up maybe a decade away but its intentions have been made very public. This limited production of its second fully electric, series model shows just how serious MINI is about electrification. We’ll have more on the new electric MINI Convertible in the days head. Official Release: The 2023 Electric MINI Convertible Following the positive feedback on the unique specimen presented in summer 2022, MINI is now going ahead with a small series of the all-electric MINI Cooper SE Convertible which represents another big step in the direction of electric mobility. The world’s first locally emission-free premium convertible in the small car segment shortens the transition period to the introduction of the next-generation all-electric model family. From April 2023, the MINI Cooper SE Convertible will be available in Europe in a limited number of 999 vehicles. “Three years ago we launched the all-electric MINI Cooper SE, and today one in five MINI sold in Europe is an all-electric MINI. This success has spurred us to implement the small series of the MINI Cooper SE Convertible within only a few months. I’m delighted that we can offer 999 MINI customers an extraordinary and exclusive open-air go-kart feeling,” says Stefanie Wurst, Head of the MINI Brand. The MINI Cooper SE Convertible is available in Enigmatic Black and White Silver. Door handles, side scuttles and the surrounds of the front and rear lights are finished in Resolute Bronze. The MINI logos and the model lettering feature in elegant Piano Black to match. The E logo familiar from the MINI Cooper SE is found on the front apron and on the rear, thereby visually underlining locally emission-free driving fun. Further edition-specific equipment details also adorn the door sill trims and side scuttles and, with the 1 of 999 lettering emphasising the exclusive character of the limited edition open-air MINI. MINI takes on a pioneering role with the edition-specific alloy wheels. The 17″ cast alloy wheels in Electric Power Spoke 2-tone design are made of 100 percent secondary aluminium. The combination of green electricity during production and the use of the secondary raw material can significantly reduce CO2 emissions compared to conventional manufacturing processes. Extensive interior equipment with MINI Electric Design features. The sports seats are in MINI Yours Leather Lounge design and feature seat heating and adjustable thigh support. The multifunctional sports leather steering wheel in Nappa leather finish contributes to the fun-to-drive atmosphere and stylish driving comfort and can also be heated. In the lower steering wheel spoke, the MINI Electric Badge highlights the limited character of the all-electric convertible. The exclusive Piano Black surfaces, which can be stylishly set off by the ambient lighting, also contribute to car’s exclusive status. The design of the interior emphasises the fully electric character of the open-top four-seater with yellow colour accents, such as the yellow start-stop toggle switch. In addition to numerous other features, the high-quality equipment is complemented in the cockpit by the eDrive services familiar from the MINI Cooper SE. These provides the driver with information on current energy consumption, range and tips for an economical driving style. All essential information is summarised on the MINI Head-Up Display while driving. On longer journeys, the Active Cruise Control with Stop & Go function and the MINI Driving Assistant, among other features, enhance the comfort of the limited MINI Convertible with all-electric drive as standard. Pure electrified go-kart feeling. With a length of 3,850 mm, a wheelbase of 2,495 mm, 1,727 mm width and 1,427 mm height, the dimensions, including the luggage compartment with 160 l load volume, remain unchanged compared to the conventionally powered MINI Convertible. The 135 kW/184 hp electric motor comes from the BMW Group’s electric mobility competence centres in Dingolfing and Landshut. Its small size enables particularly harmonious axle load distribution and favours agile and easily controllable handling. The electric drive accelerates the MINI Cooper SE Convertible smoothly from standstill to 100 km/h in 8.2 seconds. With a range of 201 kilometres determined in the WLTP test cycle, open-air excursions are possible well beyond the city limits. Up to 30 km/h, the fully electrically powered and thus particularly quiet textile soft top in MINI Yours style with typical Union Jack pattern can be opened, closed or set as a sliding roof. From idea to small series – The electric MINI Convertible With the MINI Cooper SE Convertible, MINI highlights its flexibility and has set up the production of a small series for the first time. The MINI Cooper SE Convertible will be produced in a limited edition of 999 vehicles alongside the conventional MINI Convertible in the Netherlands. The post World Premier: The 2023 Electric MINI Convertible Cooper SE appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

The MINI Clubman is dead. Due to sales and a world that can’t enough of small crossovers, the wagon-like Clubman will soon end after an 8 year run. Beloved for its mix of utility and performance, the Clubman has become a cult favorite for the brand. However the passion of its owners won’t be enough to save it as MINI doubles down on crossovers with its next generation of cars. The Clubman in particular has had a hard time finding an audience outside of Europe as small wagon sales have slowed to a crawl in many markets. And despite MotoringFile calling the JCW Clubman the best all around MINI ever made, it’s been a hard sell for dealers. Especially next to the taller more SUV like Countryman. Winter tiresAnd now MINI is making the Countryman even larger while introducing a smaller electric Aceman crossover the US might not even get. It’s a sad end to our favorite car in the MINI line-up The Clubman has been our favorite MINI model since it’s introduction in 2013. We’ve run three of them over the years – a manual Cooper S All4, the 228 hp JCW and most recently a 306 hp JCW. While all were great cars, the 306 hp JCW Clubman might just be out favorite new MINI ever made. You can read a collection of reviews of that car below. Why? Its mix of utility and performance is unmatched in the range. As a wagon (even if MINI won’t call it that) it has can deliver almost all of the utility a crossover offers with none of the performance trade-offs. Having driven a Clubman on everything from the Dragon to the track to snow covers mountain roads we can confidently say there is nothing that comes close to the broad capabilities of the Clubman – especially in JCW form. Saying it will be missed is a massive understatement. The Final Chance to Order MINI Clubman The end of production for the MINI Clubman is scheduled to be Q1 of 2024. More specifically we believe the last production month will be February of 2024. That means the ordering books will likely close in November or December as MINI winds down production. So if you’re interested in getting your hands on a car that likely grow in cult status, it’s now or never. Our Favorite MINI Clubman Reviews The post The MINI Clubman is Dead appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Coinciding the the launch of its Manual School, MINI USA is announcing the return of more manual transmission models for 2023. On the occasion of the revised models MINI USAhas done some research that shows the surprisingly high interest in young drivers wanting to learn how to drive manuals. The return of the manual models to the US marks some normalization within the production process for MINI as it begins to rebound from the constant series of world events that have effected production at the Oxford Plant. While the F56 MINI hatch has been available with manuals since this fall, MINI USA is expanding the option to all small MINIs sold in the US. Here’s a full rundown of what is now offered with a manual: F56 MINI Cooper 2-door Hardtop (November 2022)F55 MINI Cooper 4-door Hardtop (March 2023)F56 MINI Cooper S 2-door Hardtop (November 2022)F55 MINI Cooper S 4-door Hardtop (March 2023)F56 MINI John Cooper Works 2-door Hardtop (November 2022)F57 MINI Cooper Convertible (March 2023)F57 MINI Cooper S Convertible (March 2023) As we’ve reported previously the MINI Clubman and Countryman (which are both in their last year of production) will not be offered with a manual moving forward. The with the next generation Clubman being discontinued for 2024 we’ve now seen the last of manuals in that model. While the Countryman will live on, it too will cease to offer a manual transmission across its model range. Official Release – MINIUSA Announces Return of More Manual Transmission Models Offering a fun and engaging experience behind the wheel, driving a manual transmission car is an art that many drivers are still familiar with, but few have the opportunity to practice today. To better understand consumer insights around manual transmissions, MINI USA recently conducted a consumer survey to find out just how people feel about manual transmissions today. Commissioned by Engine’s CARAVAN®, the survey found a few indicators that were both surprising and optimistic that show manual driving still has an opportunity to shine. Validating the appeal of driving a manual transmission car, an impressive 63% of all respondents agree that learning how to drive a manual transmission is a rite of passage and an important life skill. Additionally, “fun to drive” was the top characteristic respondents most associated with a manual transmission vehicle. However, despite this, less than a quarter (24%) of all respondents indicated they own a manual-equipped car. Regarding consumers’ knowledge of how to drive a manual, nearly half of all Gen Z (49%) and 42% of all women indicated they did not know how to drive a car with a manual transmission. When asked if they were willing to learn, more than half of all respondents (53%) indicated they are interested in learning. Impressively, two thirds (67%) of younger respondents aged 18-34 were most eager to learn to drive a manual transmission car. These results show a clear opportunity to impart the fun and engaging element of driving a manual to current and upcoming generations of drivers. It comes at a time when MINI USA is announcing the return of more models available with manual transmissions. As of November 2022 production, MINI USA announced the return of manuals in its Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works 2-door hardtops. MINI is now pleased to announce four additional models that will be available with a manual transmission. They include: MINI Cooper ConvertibleMINI Cooper S ConvertibleMINI Cooper 4-Door HardtopMINI Cooper S 4-Door Hardtop Ordering for these four additional models have opened effective this week, and will begin production March 1, bringing the total count of MINI models offered with a manual transmission to seven. Offering drivers the opportunity to learn to drive a manual, MINI USA in conjunction with the BMW Group Performance Center West in Thermal, CA, announced plans in November to launch a dedicated school. Effective February 8th, 2023, registration for the MINI Manual Driving School is now open with the course available at a cost of $499. This school is designed to welcome a new generation of manual drivers while allowing others to sharpen their skills after years of driving automatic. The school creates a foundation for drivers to build their comfort with driving manual transmission vehicles, with a 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. To learn more and register for the MINI Manual Driving School, see here. The post MINIUSA Announces Return of More Manual Transmission Models appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article

Over the last week we’ve brought you an exclusive look at how MINI intends to completely transform its line-up. While the brand’s products continues to sell well, there’s little debating they’re long overdue for not just a refresh but a rethink. That will happen across three different product categories starting late this year and into next and it will be nothing short of a revolution for the brand. The U25 2024 MINI Countryman Larger in every dimension and with loads more technology onboard, the new model will move MINI into direct competition with the ultra competitive small crossover segment. It will be the most diverse of all MINI products in terms of models and propulsion. Offered as both a pure ICE and pure electric, the Countryman will likely continue to be the brand’s volume seller globally. MINI will debut the 2024 MINI Countryman in the second half of 2023 with an all-out model onslaught. Based on our sources, this is what we expect to see in terms of production timing. U25 MINI Countryman / Leipzig, GermanyStart of ProductionU25 ICE Countryman11/2023U25 ICE Countryman S03/2024U25 ICE Countryman JCW11/2023U25 EV CountrymanTBDU25 EV Countryman S03/2024U25 EV Countryman JCW*TBD* Unconfirmed by our sourcesBoth Petrol and Electric Power Will Be Offered Given the investment in electrification, MINI will revising its engine range and not replacing it. So things will look familiar but numbers will rise slightly. Based on what we know about the evolved three and four liter family of engines from BMW, we should see something close to the following: The 1.5 three cylinder which will be rated at 137 hp and 170 lb-ft of torque2.0 four cylinder with varying tunes; 170 hp and 206 ft-lbs and 218 hp and 265 ft-lbs. JCW branded 2.0 four cylinder with 330 hpAll petrol engines will get a 48 volt mild hybrid system and will be mated to a revised 7-speed dual clutch with an all new gear selector design. The manual transmission will be eliminated in all models.The FAAR platform was designed from the ground up to accommodate a battery pack and electric motor as part of the brand’s plans to transition all products over the next decade. Again the BMW X1 (in this case the iX1) gives us a clue. Assuming MINI will be leveraging the same technical layout (which we’ve heard is the plan), we should expect the electric Countryman to have a peak output is 308 horsepower and 364 pound-feet of torque. Potentially branded as a JCW, the power comes from a modest 64.7-kWh t-shaped battery pack that produces 266 miles of range using the WLTP testing protocol. That would likely translate into something around 240 miles using the EPA testing. The iX1 supports DC fast-charging at up to 130 kW, which can charge from 10 percent to 80 percent in only 29 minutes. For more information on the 2024 U25 MINI Countryman, head over to our U25 Countryman section. The J01 2024 MINI Cooper (Electric) The all new J01 2024 electric MINI Cooper is a watershed moment of the brand. It will be MINI’s first electric vehicle on a dedicated electric platform and will represent the first total rethink since the 2001 R50. 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 improved performance, range and more MINI-like proportions. However until now we didn’t know MINI’s timing for its launch. Thanks to some of our trusted sources, we can now bring you a full view of not just the car, but when it will go into production. J01 Electric MINI Cooper / ChinaStart of ProductionJ01 Electric Cooper 3 Door11/2023J01 Electric Cooper S 3 Door11/2023J01 Electric Cooper JCW 3 DoorTBD* Unconfirmed by our sourcesWhile we believe the J01 will eventually see production in the UK (around 2027), at launch it will exclusively be built in China for global export. The beginning of production is scheduled for November 2023 for both the Cooper E and faster Cooper SE variants. That should see a European market launch of early 2024. While there’s still a lot of question around the J01 coming to the US at launch (we’ll talk more about that in a minute), the earliest we’d see it in North American would be spring of 2024. The 2024 Electric MINI Cooper (J01) Range & Performance 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. Head over to MotoringFile’s J01 MINI Cooper section for all the details on this completely new MINI. The F66 2024 MINI Cooper (ICE) MINI isn’t letting go of internal combustion engines (ICE) yet. In an unprecedented move there will be two next generation MINI Coopers (hatches) built on opposite ends of the planet on two different platforms. This move will allow MINI to offer innovative electric offerings while still selling to the traditional ICE market for as long as possible. But key to this will be upgrading the F56 to a more modern spec in terms of tech. F66 MINI Cooper (ICE) / Oxford, EnglandStart of ProductionF66 ICE Cooper 3 door03/2024F66 ICE Cooper S 3 door03/2024F66 ICE Cooper JCW 3 doorTBDF65 ICE Cooper 5 doorTBDF65 ICE Cooper S 5 doorTBDF67 ICE Cooper Convertible03/2025*F67 ICE Cooper S Convertible03/2025*F67 ICE JCW ConvertibleTBD* Unconfirmed by our sourcesAs you can tell by its codename, the F66 is an evolution of the F56 which is shared a chassis with. However MINI is refreshing the exterior design to better match the all new J01 electric MINI Cooper. That means we’ll see revised lights front and rear and even a slightly shortened front overhang. The key theme appears to be creating design consistency with the future of the brand – the all electric J01 MINI Cooper. The goal is clearly to unify the design language across all models allowing consumers to have a choice that feels strictly about the propulsion system and nothing else. But what we didn’t know was MINI’s aggressive launch plans. As you can see above MINI will start production of the heavily revised F66 in March of 2024. Deliveries should start in April (for the UK and EU) and May for the US market. For all of our reporting on the next generation F66 ICE MINI Cooper, check out the F66 section of MotoringFile The post Exclusive: MINI to Transform Model Line-up in 2024 appeared first on MotoringFile. View the full article