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Mini Cooper

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Mini Cooper S

Mini Cooper 3rd generation released

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24th June, 2014

  • Larger and more powerful
  • New three cylinder engines for the Mini Cooper petrol and diesel variants

Mini Australia has released the slightly larger third generation Mini hatch. With improvements in several areas, the new Mini provides greater occupant comfort with increased interior space, a higher level of functionality with updated features and a more refined driving experience.

According to Kai Bruesewitz, general manager for Mini Australia, the new Mini is an exciting combination of sophisticated new technologies and engineering, blended with the familiar and energetic Mini 'character'.

“The new Mini receives the latest technology and features for a much higher level of refinement. At the same time, we’ve retained the engaging “go-kart” driving style this iconic vehicle is known for.”

“But the best news for Australian Mini fans is that we have been able to reduce the pricing of the all-new Mini, making it more accessible than ever before,” Bruesewitz said.

Pricing of the new Mini range is sharp, with significant reductions over the previous models. The new Mini Cooper is priced at $26,650*, down $5,000, the new Mini Cooper D is down $3,000 to $31,800* and the range topping Mini Cooper S is now priced at $36,950*, a reduction of $3,750.

The new Mini has grown in every direction, with increased dimensions for the chassis, body and interior space. The new platform allows for an increase of 28 mm to the wheelbase and an increase to the track of 42mm (front) and 34 mm (rear).  The overall dimensions have also increased with 98mm added to the length, 44mm added to the width and seven mm added to the height of the new model.

This increase in size is instantly felt on the inside. Greater occupant comfort is guaranteed, thanks to increased shoulder room and foot space in the front seating area and a roomier rear-seat arrangement. Carrying capacity is significantly enhanced with the luggage compartment increased to 211 litres – up 51 litres from its predecessor.

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The exterior styling of the new Mini has been refined and presents an updated translation of the typical look, proportions and body structure. Sporting fresh interpretation are the traditional design features such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, the side indicator surrounds known as side scuttles, the circular headlights, the upright rear light clusters and the black detailing around the bottom edge of the body.

The Mini Cooper and Mini Cooper D are characterised by radiator grille ribs and a tailgate handle in white aluminium and a high-gloss black bumper strip as well as a chrome trim element for the exhaust tailpipe.

The Mini Cooper S identifies its pinnacle positioning and sporty pedigree with model-specific features such as a radiator grille with honeycomb pattern, a bumper strip in anthracite, bonnet scoops, brake air ducts integrated in the lower air inlets and a separate rear apron with exhaust tailpipes the centre. In addition to the side scuttle elements, the radiator grille of this model variant now also bears an "S" logo with chrome surround.

The launch of the new Mini sees a change of generation in the area of engines. For the first time ever, both three-cylinder and four-cylinder engines are used, all featuring Mini TwinPower Turbo Technology. In all petrol engines this includes turbocharging, direct fuel injection and variable camshaft control on the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS).

The petrol engines of the new Mini models feature fully variable valve control in the form of VALVETRONIC, as patented by the BMW Group. The diesel engine of the new Mini Cooper D has a turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry and the latest generation of common rail direct injection.



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Compared to the predecessor, the fuel injection pressure of the new engine is increased to achieve high-precision fuel metering and clean combustion.

All model variants of the new Mini have improved engine and driving performance figures while their fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as nineteen per cent when compared to the previous model.

Mini Cooper:

  • Three-cylinder petrol engine with Mini TwinPower turbo technology
  • 1,499 cc, 100 kW, 220 Nm at 1,250 – 4,000 rpm (230 Nm with overboost)
  • 0-100 km/h: 7.9 seconds
  • EU fuel consumption 4.7 l/100 km’s, CO2 110 grammes per km.

Mini Cooper D:

  • 3-cylinder diesel with Mini TwinPower turbo technology
  • 1,496 cc, 85 kW, 270 Nm at 1,750 rpm
  • 0-100 km/h: 9.2 seconds
  • EU fuel consumption 3.7 l/100 km’s, CO2 97 grammes per km.

Mini Cooper S:

  • 4-cylinder petrol with Mini TwinPower turbo technology
  • 1,998 cc, 141 kW, 280 Nm at 1,250 – 4,750 rpm (300 Nm with overboost)
  • 0-100 km/h: 6.8 seconds
  • EU fuel consumption 5.9 l/100 km’s, CO2 138 grammes per km.

These new generation engines are matched as standard to a new six-speed manual transmission which features carbon friction liners in the synchroniser rings for reduced weight and improved shift comfort. The optional six-speed automatic transmission also offers improved efficiency, enhanced shift comfort and shift dynamics via a more efficient transmission control system, a more direct connection and an improved hydraulics system. The new Mini combines automatic start/stop function with the automatic transmission for the first time.

The chassis and suspension systems underwent a full scale revision with the results all aimed at intensifying the experience of the agile Mini handling properties. Extensive work was applied the areas of materials with increased use of aluminium and targeted use of high strength steels to reduce weight and increase rigidity. Further development was also carried out in the area of geometry such as increased track width for both front and rear axles with the result being improved axle kinematics.

Improvements have also been made to the electromechanical power steering which includes torque steer compensation to prevent self-steering tendencies caused by differing degrees of torque at the drive wheels. The steering has been optimised for increased precision in highly dynamic and spirited driving situations and standard features include the speed-related steering assistance system, Servotronic.

Once inside the new Mini, occupants are greeted with the familiar Mini ambience, although with more sophistication and functionality.

A new display and operating concept combines the typical brand-style look and feel of the cockpit with improved functionality. Road speed and engine speed, along with other key driving-related information, is shown in the newly designed instrument cluster directly in front of the driver on the steering column.

The characteristic central instrument display now includes either a four-line TFT display, a 6.5 inch or 8.8 inch colour display depending on model and options fitted. In each case, the display provides feedback on vehicle functions, infotainment and communication as well as navigation maps and route directions in the case of the larger displays. The selection and control of these functions is facilitated by controls in the instrument display or via a new controller in the centre console which comes in conjunction with the Radio Mini Visual Boost or either of the optional navigation systems. Also new is the functional LED light ring (Optional for Mini Cooper) surrounding the display which changes colour depending on the function selected.

Starting and stopping the engine now uses a keyless function. To operate, the driver just depresses the brake pedal and presses the red toggle switch in the centre console to start or stop the engine.

Given the host of new features and functions available on the new Mini, the standard equipment and options list for all models has undergone a complete review.

Mini Cooper

The purchase price of $26,650* - a reduction of $5,000 versus the outgoing model - will get you into the new Mini Cooper complete with numerous safety systems such as Dynamic Stability Control with electronic diff lock, ABS, dynamic brake lights and a crash sensor which automatically unlocks the vehicle, switches on the hazard lights and interior lights and disengages the battery in case of an accident.

The well being of the occupants is also protected with front and side airbags fitted as standard, including curtain airbags covering front and rear seats. The new Mini also features a partially active bonnet which rises up to minimise the risk of injury should a pedestrian accident occur.

Open road driving and parking manoeuvres are made easier with the standard inclusion of cruise control with braking function, park distance control and  Servotronic speed sensitive power steering assistance.

The exterior of the new Mini Cooper model is defined by the standard 15” Heli spoke light alloy wheels, white aluminium trim for the tailgate handle and vertical slats of the radiator grille which, like the door handles, is surrounded in chrome.

The appointment of the interior includes trim finishers in hazy grey, colour line in carbon black and cloth firework upholstery for the four seats. The front seats feature manual adjustments, including height. The sports leather steering wheel, which is also adjustable for height and length, features multi-function controls for the operation of the cruise control and audio/telephone system.

Entertainment is provided by the four-speaker audio system which includes USB input and an auxiliary jack for external music devices, as well as the standard Bluetooth hands free interface to enhance connectivity.

Mini Cooper D

Stepping up into the Mini Cooper D at $31,800* (a saving of $3,000 versus the predecessor) not only delivers the benefits of diesel performance but also a host of additional features. The premium over the Mini Cooper is justified by the inclusion of features such as 16” Victory spoke alloy wheels, front fog lights and white turn indicators to differentiate the model on the exterior.

Once inside the Mini Cooper D the additional appointments are just as obvious with radio Mini visual boost as standard which includes a 6.5” display for the central information unit and a centre console mounted controller. A new functional LED light ring around the centre information display and the Mini excitement package which includes switchable mood lighting combine to further enhance the visual appeal and functionality of the Mini Cooper D.

Enhancements to the specification also include the addition of a centre arm rest which is included with the optimised Bluetooth preparation, as well as dual-zone automatic climate control.

Mini Cooper S

At $36,950* the range topping Mini Cooper S comes in $3,750 less than the outgoing model yet boasts a range of new innovative features and options. In standard guise the 141 kW machine gains 17” tentacle spoke alloy wheels, sports seats upholstered in a cloth/leather combination, as well as the Mini navigation system and Mini driving modes over the Mini Cooper D.

The Mini Cooper S also includes the performance control system which helps to maximise steering accuracy and agility in cornering which further enhances the dynamic credentials of this small hatchback.

The range of optional driver assistance systems has been expanded. For the first time, Mini offers the availability of an extendible Head-Up Display above the steering column, a Driving Assistant system including camera-based active cruise control, collision and pedestrian warning, high beam assistant and also a parking assistant and a rear view camera.

Another addition to the Mini equipment programme is Dynamic Damper Control. Two settings are available for damper set-up, allowing activation of either a more comfort-oriented response or a direct, sporty response to road bumps, depending on the given situation. The compression and rebound stage are adjusted by means of electrical control of the EDC valves.

The new Mini Driving Modes (standard on Mini Cooper S) allow an individual set-up via a rotary switch at the base of the gear shift or selector level. The modes SPORT and GREEN can be activated in addition to the standard MID mode. Depending on vehicle specification, changing the setting affects not just the characteristic curve of the accelerator and steering but also the ambient lighting, the displays in the central instrument cluster, the shift times of the automatic transmission and the characteristics of Dynamic Damper Control.

Also available for the first time in a Mini - and unique in the segment - are optional LED headlights and adaptive light distribution with LED turning lights. The bright white LED units provide the light source for both low and high beam and enhanced visibility in night time driving. The additional option of the adaptive light distribution ensures optimum illumination of the road surface and roadside by manipulating the throw and width of the light beam produced by the LED headlights.

“With its updated styling, more sophisticated technology and, last but not least, the more affordable pricing there is even more reason to love the new Mini,” said Bruszewitz.

Australian MLP*
Mini Cooper - $26,650*
Mini Cooper D - $31,800*
Mini Cooper S - $36,950*


NOTE:

* Manufacturer's List Price (MLP) excludes dealer delivery fees and the numerous statutory charges (commonly known as on-road costs). Additionally, please note that all prices, fees and charges are subject to change without notice, as are the specifications.

E&OE.


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