2011 MINI Cooper SD

Apparently, the 2011 MINI Cooper SD will be the diesel version of the Cooper S. This means that the power of the 2011 MINI Cooper SD will come from a 1.6-liter turbodiesel engine developing 140 hp. 134 Mini cites one mph and 0-62mph in 8.1sec. The new MINI Cooper SD is also equipped with a wide range of tech minimalism. The MINI Cooper SD also uses specific features of the design model to show its sporting credentials. Mini SD also want to use regular models this transmission in D.

Mini’s latest toy is a new SD version which just so happens to be their most powerful diesel Cooper ever, and yet another reason the Mini Cooper is so darn popular.

The Mini Cooper SD is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder turbodiesel engine that delivers an impressive 143 hp at 4,000 rpm and a peak torque of 225 lb-ft available between 1,750 and 2,700 rpm. Whether we get a piece of this action or not, Mini will be bringing the SD trim level to different Mini models, including the Cooper, Cooper Convertible, Clubman, and Countryman versions. The Mini Cooper SD will be making its world debut at the 2011 Geneva Motor Show with sales beginning shortly thereafter.

The MINI Cooper SD, MINI Cooper SD Clubman, and MINI Cooper SD Countryman will also come with a new roof spoiler.
They receive a 2.0 litre turbo diesel engine which generates 141bhp and 225lb ft of torque. The Cooper SD superminis also get brake energy generation, start/stop, a shift point display and electric power steering.

A six-speed manual box is standard, with buyers able to specify a six-speed auto, which will also be offered on the MINI Cooper SD. The manual gearbox is ‘lightweight’ to help the economy figures.
The most expensive MINI Cooper SD is the four-wheel drive Countryman which comes in at just over £23,000.

2012 Mini Roadster

The Mini Roadster is on track to debut in March or April 2012.Three versions will be offered: base coupe, midlevel S and top-level John Cooper Works performance edition. Engines are essentially carried over from the Mini Cooper hatchback lineup, with a 208-horsepower turbo 1.6-liter powering the JCW Coupe.

Sales for the Mini Roadster will begin immediately following its release with prices coming in at about $2-3K higher than the Coupe, or roughly $25,000 for a base Roadster.
Buyers will get to choose between the base Roadster with 121 HP, an S version with 181 HP, an SD version with a 141 HP (Europe only), and the top-of-the-line John Cooper Works version delivering 208 HP.

Our only concern for the Mini Roadster is the crowd gathering in Mini’s lineup. With the Mini Cooper Convertible already seated firmly in place, will Mini-lovers find the time to fall in love with a two-seater model?

Wearing little camouflage, the MINI Roadster is sticking close to the concept model that previewed it
This group shows the MINI Roadster from all angles and we can see that MINI is sticking close to the look of the Roadster concept which debuted at the Frankfurt motor show back in 2009.

2011 Mini Cooper Countryman Reviews

2011 Mini Countryman is a new crossover from Mini that’s both sporty and family friendly. Mini Coopers aren’t practical family cars. The Countryman changes this – it’s about one foot longer and six inches wider than the Mini Cooper Hardtop, which makes a big difference once you sit in the Countryman’s cabin. Since it’s a crossover, Mini thought the Countryman should be available with all-wheel drive, a first for the brand. The 2011 Countryman also has the most cargo space in Mini's lineup – a maximum of 41.3 cubic feet with the rear seats folded.

The Mini Countryman has a lot more cargo room than the Cooper Hardtop, but it’s easily beat by many affordable small cars like the Honda Fit that are cheaper and roomier.

The 2011 Mini Cooper Countryman occupies a weird place in the market. It’s a crossover, but it’s considerably smaller and less family friendly than crossover SUVs like the Honda CR-V and the Toyota RAV4.The Countryman seats four, which is unusual, but it looks like Mini prioritized comfort over maximum seating capacity.

One thing the Juke can match is the Countryman’s performance. Its 1.6-liter engine makes 188 horsepower, seven more than the Cooper S Countryman, and 67 more than the base Countryman.

The Mini Countryman is a new model for 2011. It’s also Mini Cooper’s first crossover, which means it’s larger and rides higher off the ground than the Mini Cooper Hardtop or the Mini Clubman. In addition to being larger in size, Mini Cooper added another first to the Countryman’s features list – an optional all-wheel drive system Mini calls ALL4.
Mini’s signature styling elements—a softly rounded body tub; an upright, blacked-out greenhouse; the angle-cut hood opening—translate very nicely to a crossover, and we are pleased to see that the Clubman’s contrasting rear trim remains exclusive to that model. Rear seats will slide fore and aft —the bench in a 60/40 split —and fold individually (or in 40/20/40 increments with the bench). Between both the front and rear seats runs the center-rail system seen on the Crossover and Beachcomber concepts, to which Mini affixes cup holders, armrests, and other "travel utensils." Those engines will replace the current mills in all 2011 Minis.

Additionally, front-wheel drive will be standard, but Mini’s new all-wheel-drive system, known as ALL4, will debut as an option on the Countryman. Other optional equipment will include a panoramic sunroof, adaptive xenon headlights, wheels ranging from 16 to 19 inches, a sport suspension that lowers the car about 0.4 inch, and the full range of John Cooper Works performance upgrades.

With the rear seats folded there is 41.3 cubic feet of cargo space available.
Mini does offer the Countryman in base Cooper form but the preferred powerplant is undoubtedly the 1.6 liter turbocharged 181 horsepower/177 lb. feet of torque 4-cylinder that returns EPA estimates of 25 city/32 highway with the 6-speed automatic that most people will specify. The Mini Cooper Countryman S starts at $25,950 and as is true with every vehicle from this automaker partaking too deeply from the options list can get expensive. Essentials include the $1,750 Premium Package (automatic climate control, Harmon Kardon sound system, panoramic sunroof) and $1,250 Convenience Package (Bluetooth, USB/iPod integration, Homelink, auto headlamps, auto wipers, keyless entry, push button start, auto-dimming rear view mirror).

The only fly in the ointment for Mini might be the newly introduced 2011 Nissan Juke which offers up most of the Mini’s features and style for a price that maxes out just a little over $20,000. So what is your take on the new 2011 Mini Countryman? Is it a real Mini?

2011 Mini Cooper Clubman Reviews

2011 Mini Clubman is a larger version of the Mini Cooper Hardtop: It offers more cargo room and rear passenger space. However, with the 2011 Mini Countryman on the market, reviewers wonder if there’s a need for the Clubman.

For 2011, the Mini Cooper Clubman got a number of interior and exterior updates. Mini also included a few performance-enhancing features. With the debut of the more practical Mini Countryman, automotive journalists wonder who will want the Clubman. If you’re considering the Mini Cooper Clubman, odds are you checked out the Mini Cooper Hardtop and crossed it off your list because it has less interior space than the Clubman. Mini updated the Clubman significantly for 2011, which means you won’t get standard HD or SIRIUS satellite radio, the optional Mini Connected system, more horsepower or better fuel economy. Details: 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman

When you check out the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman at dealerships, you’ll see a number of significant changes. Inside, the Mini improved the Clubman’s interior controls and made them less confusing. Mini offers HD radio and SIRIUS satellite radio as standard interior features. There are three versions of the Clubman: base, Cooper S and John Cooper Works.
For 2011, the range of Mini Cooper Clubman models receives a slight increase in power output, modified steering for reduced torque steer under hard acceleration, minor cosmetic changes inside and out, optional adaptive headlights, reworked radio controls, standard HD and satellite radio and added sound insulation.

The 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman addresses this issue by virtue of its larger dimensions -- about 10 inches longer overall, translating to about 2.5 inches of much-needed rear-seat legroom and about 50 percent more cargo capacity. The Clubman comes with the same powertrain choices and standard and optional feature lists that the smaller Mini enjoys. From the sensible base model to the more entertaining S and John Cooper Works, there should be a Clubman to fit most budgets and tastes. It's worth noting that the Clubman also inherits some of the standard Mini's less desirable traits. The 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman is a four-seat, two-door hatchback with a passenger-side reverse-opening rear door. In place of the regular Cooper's rear liftgate is a pair of outward-swinging doors. There are three trim levels available: base Cooper, sportier Cooper S and highest-performing John Cooper Works.

The Cooper S adds a more powerful engine, 16-inch wheels, run-flat tires, foglights, dual exhausts, firmer suspension tuning, sport seats and alloy pedals. Step up to the John Cooper Works edition and you'll get even more power, 17-inch wheels, Brembo brakes and cloth upholstery. The base Cooper Clubman is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 that produces 121 horsepower and 114 pound-feet of torque. The regular Cooper and the Cooper S come standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic with manual shift control is optional. Mini estimates the base Clubman with a manual transmission will accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 8.9 seconds (10.2 seconds for the automatic). With the manual transmission, the base Clubman achieves impressive EPA-estimated fuel economy of 27 mpg city/35 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. The 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman comes standard with antilock disc brakes, front-seat side airbags, full-length side curtain airbags and stability control. The Mini Clubman's biggest advantage over the standard Cooper is in rear-seat legroom -- as in, it actually has some. Just like the regular Cooper, the Clubman features a snazzy, retro-inspired control setup.

Driving Impressions
Despite being longer than the regular Mini, the 2011 Mini Cooper Clubman still provides a comparable level of driving entertainment. For some, though, the stiff suspension may be a bit jarring, particularly on the John Cooper Works model and the Cooper S with the optional sport-tuned suspension.

The MINI Cooper Clubman is a larger version of the MINI Cooper. Standard features on the base model include dual power remote mirrors, rear window wipers, daytime running lights, and halogen headlights.

Interior Features
The interior of the 2011 MINI Cooper remains relatively unchanged. Upgraded trims and options include features like sport seats, cloth seats, automatic temperature control, leather seats, HD or satellite radio, an iPod connection, and upgraded speakers.

2011 Mini Cooper Convertible Reviews

For 2011, the Mini Cooper Convertible and Mini Cooper S Convertible receive slight bumps in power output from their 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engines. The range-topping Mini Cooper John Cooper Works Convertible holds steady at 208 horsepower. The Environmental Protection Agency rates the 2011 Mini Cooper Convertible with its standard six-speed manual transmission at 27 mpg city, 35 mpg highway and 31 mpg combined. The even sportier Cooper S Convertible is rated at 27 mpg city/36 mpg highway/30 mpg combined with the stick shift, and 26 city/34 highway/29 combined with the automatic. Finally, the powerful (and expensive) Mini John Cooper Works Convertible is EPA-rated at 25 mpg city/33 mpg highway/28 mpg combined.

The 2011 Mini Cooper is proof that you can be entertained by a lively car without drawing criticism from environmentalists. Under the hood, the fun starts with the lively yet economical base 1.6-liter and moves up to the sporty turbocharged Cooper S and raucous John Cooper Works versions. This boosts fuel economy and helps the Cooper feel lively around town. The Cooper's rear seat has an almost comical lack of legroom, although the Cooper Clubman (reviewed separately) is a remedy.
Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Mini Cooper is available in two-door hatchback and convertible body styles. Each is available in three trim levels: Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW).

The base Cooper comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, leatherette (vinyl) upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, HD radio, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack. The Cooper convertible models add 16-inch alloy wheels and a full power convertible top that includes a sunroof feature. The Cooper's Sport package adds 16-inch wheels on the hatchback and 17-inch wheels on the convertible, foglamps, traction control, a rear spoiler, sport seats and hood stripes.

The Cooper S adds 16-inch wheels, a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension tuning, foglamps, sport seats and alloy pedals. The Cooper S Sport package adds 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, traction control and hood stripes. The John Cooper Works includes a more powerful turbo engine, upgraded Brembo brakes and cloth upholstery. The 2011 Mini Cooper comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine good for 121 hp and 114 pound-feet of torque. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg city/37 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined with the manual (27/35/31 convertible) and 28/36/31 with the automatic.

Mini estimates 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.6 seconds for the manual and 6.8 seconds for the automatic. A six-speed manual is the only available transmission. Mini estimates a 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds for the hatchback and 6.6 for the convertible.

Safety
All 2011 Mini Coopers come standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and front-seat side airbags. In Edmunds braking, various Mini Cooper S models with 17-inch wheels stopped from 60 mph between 112 and 115 feet -- excellent results.

Interior Design and Special Features
Of all the ways to describe the Mini Cooper's interior, we doubt anyone would call it boring. Despite the Mini Cooper's small size, the front seats are surprisingly spacious. Unlike most convertibles, the Mini's rear seats can be folded flat to accommodate larger items, but the rollover hoops and soft-top mechanism prevent the loading of bulkier objects. Opting for the Cooper S or John Cooper Works models further stiffens the ride, leading us to recommend that mainstream buyers forego the sport suspension and larger wheels.

On the features list, the 2011 MINI Cooper Convertible has redesigned controls for the audio and climate-control systems; a choice of new navigation and audio systems and a new integration setup for iPods and other music players. The turbocharged Cooper S Convertible nets 172 horsepower, a 7-second 0-60 mph time, and a top speed of 138 mph. The dealer-installed John Cooper Works kit raises the turbo's output to 189 hp and torque, at times, to 200 lb-ft; 0-60 mph times fall here to 6.5 seconds. A six-speed manual is standard on the MINI Cooper, while a six-speed automatic is an option; on the Cooper S the automatic adds a sport-shift option and paddle shifters.

2011 Mini Cooper hatchback

The 2011 Mini Cooper is the perfect package for some car shoppers: it’s cute, fun to drive and has great fuel economy. Aside from its high price the Cooper has other drawbacks like a small trunk and tight back seatNo doubt about it, the Mini Cooper is expensive for its class. However, there are many affordable options that don’t compromise fuel economy, cargo space or comfort.

Like the Mini Cooper, it’s well known as a top performer with powerful engines, sleek looks and a nice interior. There are few other affordable small cars that can match the Golf or Cooper’s performance capabilities, but if you’re looking to save even more money, look at the Mazda2 and the Mazda3. It’s a four-door hatchback and starts at $14,180, about $6,000 less than the Mini Cooper.

Shoppers who’ve decided to buy the 2011 Mini Cooper have plenty of options. The base model is the Mini Cooper. Next up is the performance-oriented Mini Cooper S. A top-of-the-line John Cooper Works model is also available as a convertible or hardtop

The 2011 Mini Cooper is proof that you can be entertained by a lively car without drawing criticism from environmentalists. Under the hood, the fun starts with the lively yet economical base 1.6-liter and moves up to the sporty turbocharged Cooper S and raucous John Cooper Works versions. This boosts fuel economy and helps the Cooper feel lively around town. The Cooper's rear seat has an almost comical lack of legroom, although the Cooper Clubman (reviewed separately) is a remedy.

Body Styles, Trim Levels, and Options
The 2011 Mini Cooper is available in two-door hatchback and convertible body styles. Each is available in three trim levels: Cooper, Cooper S and John Cooper Works (JCW).
The base Cooper comes standard with 15-inch alloy wheels, full power accessories, keyless entry, air-conditioning, cruise control, a height-adjustable driver seat, leatherette (vinyl) upholstery, a tilt-and-telescoping leather-wrapped steering wheel, multicolor ambient lighting and a six-speaker stereo with a CD player, HD radio, satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack.
The Cooper convertible models add 16-inch alloy wheels and a full power convertible top that includes a sunroof feature. The Cooper's Sport package adds 16-inch wheels on the hatchback and 17-inch wheels on the convertible, foglamps, traction control, a rear spoiler, sport seats and hood stripes.

The Cooper S adds 16-inch wheels, a turbocharged engine, firmer suspension tuning, foglamps, sport seats and alloy pedals. The Cooper S Sport package adds 17-inch wheels, xenon headlights, traction control and hood stripes. The John Cooper Works includes a more powerful turbo engine, upgraded Brembo brakes and cloth upholstery. The 2011 Mini Cooper comes with a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine good for 121 hp and 114 pound-feet of torque. EPA-estimated fuel economy is 29 mpg city/37 mpg highway and 32 mpg combined with the manual (27/35/31 convertible) and 28/36/31 with the automatic.

Mini estimates 0-60 mph acceleration in 6.6 seconds for the manual and 6.8 seconds for the automatic. A six-speed manual is the only available transmission. Mini estimates a 0-60 time of 6.2 seconds for the hatchback and 6.6 for the convertible.

Safety
All 2011 Mini Coopers come standard with antilock disc brakes, stability control and front-seat side airbags. In Edmunds braking, various Mini Cooper S models with 17-inch wheels stopped from 60 mph between 112 and 115 feet -- excellent results.

Interior Design and Special Features
Of all the ways to describe the Mini Cooper's interior, we doubt anyone would call it boring. Despite the Mini Cooper's small size, the front seats are surprisingly spacious. Unlike most convertibles, the Mini's rear seats can be folded flat to accommodate larger items, but the rollover hoops and soft-top mechanism prevent the loading of bulkier objects. Opting for the Cooper S or John Cooper Works models further stiffens the ride, leading us to recommend that mainstream buyers forego the sport suspension and larger wheels.
2011 Mini Cooper drives almost exactly like the 2010 Mini Cooper – no real surprise considering the limit of the changes. Electronic power steering has allowed the crafty German engineers to add anti torque- and anti bump-steer to the Cooper's repertoire, and the modifications were obvious when compared to last year's model.

2010 MINI Life Ball Edition

Over the years, often used as a base Mini special edition model and always has many enthusiasts from marketing. Now, Francisco Costa from Calvin Klein, Diane von Furstenberg and Kenneth Cole will create three special Minis to raffle off at this year’s edition of “Life Ball”, the biggest HIV/AIDS charity event in Europe that will take place in Vienna on 17th July 2010.

Previous Life Ball Mini specials have been designed by Missoni (2003), Ferré (2004), Versace (2005), Diesel (2006), Mario Testino (2007), Agent Provocateur (2008) and, last year, The Blonds for Katy Perry.

2010 MINI Life Ball Edition mode on behalf of Calvin Klein, US fashion house’s creative director Francisco Costa will be designing the new Mini Countryman crossover. US fashion designer with Belgian roots Diane von Furstenberg, will artistically enhance the MINI Hatch, while New York’s Kenneth Cole apply his style on a Mini Convertible.

2011 Mini WRC

2010 Mini WRC presented at Paris Motor Show and Mini announces that it will contest the FIA World Rally Championship from 2011, will receive its world premiere at this international motor show.

The 2011 World Rally Championship will see the new Mini WRC contesting in six of 13 scheduled rounds, with MINI competing in the full 2012 season. In addition, Prodrive plans to make available customer versions to independent teams for use in the championship.

The interest in motorsport among the present generation of MINI customers is massive. The WRC provides an excellent communications platform for the Mini Countryman, upon which the Mini WRC is based.

The heart of the 2011 Mini WRC is the BMW Motorsport-developed 1.6 litre, fourcylinder Di turbo-charged engine which can be deployed not only in the WRC, but also in other championships running to the FIA’s Super2000 regulations. The power transmission takes place via an Xtrac 6-speed, sequential gearbox. For its outings on the rally stages, the MINI Countryman chassis has been fitted with a roll cage developed by Prodrive, which exceeds the strict safety requirements of the International Automobile Federation (FIA).

2010 AC Schnitzer MINI E Police Look Concept

AC Schnitzer built the MINI E Police Look Concept to realize a car that can satisfy tuning aficionados and also meet safety standards. It is being showcased at the 2010 Essen Motor Show.

The MINI E Police car is powered by an electric motor with 204 hp on tap and plenty of low-down torque (maximum is 220 Nm or 162 lb-ft). It completes the standard sprint from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.5 seconds and has a limited top speed of 152 km/h (95 mph).

2010 MINI E Police Look Concept finished in the classic Polizei colors, the concept has the latest signaling system from Hella mounted on the roof and special wraps from Foliatec. AC Schnitzer’s comprehensive tuning package made it even better while the police livery is an interesting take on the “safety” theme.

Tuner added modified front and rear bumpers, plus lowered side skirts, improve the car’s looks, while bonnet vents and a large roof spoiler complete the bodykit. Also opted for new alloys, the 18-inch MI 2 wheels feature an 8-spoke design and are wrapped in high-performance Hankook Ventus S1 Evo tires. Stopping power is provided by an upgraded brake system, boasting 328mm 4-pot caliper (in front) ventilated disks. There is also a complete suspension kit.

In interior of AC Schnitzer MINI E Police Look Concept includes the boys in blue are greeted by aluminum pedals, footrest and handbrake handle.

2010 MINI Paceman Concept

Mini Paceman Concept set to be unveiled at the Detroit Auto Show in January. Mini calls the Paceman a “Sports Activity Coupe” (sort of like the BMW X6) and insists it’s the first of its kind in the small premium segment.

Sporting, masculine appearance blends with versatile character. Large headlights with chrome surrounds extend deep into the front wings and, together with the distinctively contoured bonnet, emphasise the imposing nose of the Paceman. The radiator grille is essentially the same as that of the Cooper S Countryman barring additional air intakes in the bumper to deliver improved brake ventilation and the incorporation of new deep set fog lights.

MINI Paceman Concept features a fresh interpretation of the front wing and side indicator that attracts the eye from the A-pillars down to the unique design 19 inch front wheels. This rugged and sturdy design element is complemented by dark wheel arch surrounds with matching side skirts that emphasize the masculine, sporting nature of Paceman.

As the waistline rises the flat roofline flows into a wide C-pillar that appears to be transparent. The windows appear to wrap around the car like a band of glass with the roof ‘suspended’ on top and painted in a striking, contrasting colour. This is known as the ‘helmet’ roof. The MINI Paceman Concept measures 4,110 millimetres in length, 1,789 millimetres in width and 1,541 millimetres in height..

Sporty interior of Paceman is environment that exudes premium quality and funky design. The instrument panel of the MINI study is defined by its distinctive, concave forms and the sporting yet functional impression it creates. The central air vents, Central Speedo and gearshift lever feature outer rings in a contrasting colour while large side air. Shaped armrests with large stowage compartments, ergonomically designed door pulls and the speakers for the sound system are embedded in the main element of this ellipse.

The MINI John Cooper Works 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged engine gives the MINI Paceman Concept the capacity to deliver the outstanding performance its appearance promises. This 16 valve, four cylinder unit develops 211 hp and generates maximum torque of 260 Nm (192 lb-ft), the latter value having the capacity to reach 280 Nm (207 lb-ft) in brief bursts thanks to the Overboost function. ALL4 features an electromagnetic centre differential positioned directly on the final drive which varies the distribution of power seamlessly between the front and rear axles.

The front axle features MacPherson spring struts with lower track control arms which, combined with Electric Power Steering with speed-sensitive power assistance, plays a major role in delivering the response and agility customers expect from a MINI.

2010 MINI Streetworker by Schmidt Revolution

German-based company, Schmidt Revolution has unveiled its latest creation, a conceptual version of the MINI Clubman Cooper S called the “Streetworker”. The tuner usually primarily specializes in alloy wheels but occasionally presents fully tuned projects.

The concept car’s low-rider appearance is achieved by the Streetec air suspension, which allows the driver to lower the ride height by 60 mm or increase it by 40 mm over the stock model.

The tuned project is focus point on German firm’s new Cirrus alloy wheel series, seen here in an 18-inch version. It’s offering for customers to be ordered of funky rims in any color ranging from the matte blue on this tune to any other tint including carbon black. On the MINI Clubman project car the alloy wheels are shod in 215/35R18 Continental rubber.

Schmidt Revolution went ahead and covered the MINI Clubman in a matte blue foil wrap and a contrasting matte black roof finish and trim detailing. The tune is finished off with an engine kit that lifts output to 200HP and 250Nm of peak torque.

2010 MINI Beachcomber Concept

A concept car will be brought by MINI at the 2010 North American International Auto Show (16-24 January 2010) in Detroit. MINI Beachcomber Concept is a creativity that cross borders to enhance driving pleasure and combining them with the vision of a radically open body concept.

At Beachcomber MINI Concept uses a new all-wheel drive system, ALL4, and a flexible interior make this car ideal for a spontaneous and active experience. It is designed without doors or a conventional roof, and all other body elements that could limit the intensity of the occupants’ encounter with their surrounding world. This allows the driver and up to three passengers to connect with their surroundings – whether cruising through town, enjoying rough tracks in the mountains, or breezing along the beach. The vehicle’s space concept, partnered with a modern drivetrain technology, ensures a highly emotional driving experience. In the event of bad weather, drivers can either use the soft roof or the lightweight door and roof elements, all of which fit easily and can be installed within a few minutes.

MINI designers were inspired by the new MINI crossover production model, which they enhanced beyond the realms of urban mobility to create the MINI Beachcomber Concept. In creating this concept, they utilized the technical qualities of the production crossover model, and made adaptations to offer the ultimate expression of freedom. The result is a new open concept driving experience for all your senses, plus a greater degree of versatility than ever experienced before in a MINI.

The MINI Beachcomber Concept offers a wide range of technology and features for driving pleasure in the 21st century. The premium manufacturer touches in the areas of design, drivetrain, safety and production technology bring together the undiluted character of a concept car with a wide range of possibilities in the real world. Offers all the flexibility and spaciousness required for an active lifestyle.

The vehicle’s rollover safety also meets the highest demands made of an open car and it is able to withstand even extreme situations. The frame on the passenger cell is formed by substantially reinforced A-pillars, and the D-pillar bar is complete with an integrated lateral support element at the rear of the car. It is made of high-strength steel for maximum stiffness. This additional safety component is finished in body color, and reinforces the commitment to safety. MINI Beachcomber Concept is also able to carry extra-long objects, such as surfboards, with ease.

The body of the MINI Beachcomber Concept concentrates on the essential and leaves no doubt that this is a genuine MINI. At first sight, unmistakable design elements reminiscent of the brand clearly stand out. Like the MINI Crossover Concept presented for the first time at the Paris Motor Show in autumn 2008, the new model clearly reflects the ongoing process of MINI design and the introduction of MINI design language in new types of vehicles. Indeed, both the smooth and firm design of the body and proportions typical of MINI show that this is clearly a member of the range.

The entire front section of the car is angled towards the road. The engine compartment lid is powerfully chiseled, and the powerdome, with its integrated air insert, symbolizes the outstanding performance of the turbocharged engine within the car.

The hexagon radiator grille, again typical of MINI, comes with contour lines carried over directly from the front look of the Mini Moke. With its vertical position, three robust crossbars and additional integrated headlights, the radiator grille gives the MINI Beachcomber Concept a particularly powerful and convincing presence.

2010 MINI Cooper S Rainbow

This year the MINI create new innovations and began from April 2010 MINI will introduce a new level of customisation and expression for those who want to take personalisation to a new level. Three new MINI Cooper S Rainbow paint options will offer a deeper dimension of reflective quality than ever before seen on a MINI. A water-based basecoat colour produces an amazing rainbow effect in bright sunlight that changes the character of the MINI completely. Available in three different colours – Sunlight Metallic, Asteroid Metallic and Nightlife Metallic – these unique paint finishes open a new chapter in MINI personalisation.

The MINI Cooper S presents the new 1.6-litre engine with special feature unique in the small car segment. It develops maximum output of 135 kW/184 hp at 5,500 rpm and has peak torque of 240 Nm on tap from as low down the engine speed range as 1,600 rpm.

2011 MINI Countryman

MINI Crossover family car presents a fourth model, the MINI Countryman. Car blend between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle. As the first model in the MINI range with four doors and a wide-opening rear lid, even provide multipurpose space at the back. the MINI Countryman offers all the characteristic features of the brand in terms of design, premium quality, handling, efficiency and customisation in new, fascinating style.

The interior is quite spacious and provides many facilities for the passengers comfort. And also the Center Rail forms an unconventional, visual and functional connection between the front seats and the rear passenger compartment.

The MINI Countryman provides exclusive color options. Further options are the extra-large Panorama roof, Adaptive Headlights in combination with xenon headlight units, a heated windscreen, a towbar, light-alloy wheels ranging in size from 16 to 19 inches, sports suspension lowering the entire car by 10 millimetres or almost 0.4″, as well as the wide range of John Cooper Works Performance Components.

The power range extends from 66 kW/90 hp in the MINI One D Countryman all the way to 135 kW/184 hp in the MINI Cooper S Countryman. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine in the top model comes for the first time not only with a twin-scroll turbocharger and direct fuel injection, but also with fully variable valve management offering by far the best balance of engine power and fuel consumption in its class. The six-speed manual gearbox featured as standard, the petrol engine models are also available with six-speed automatic complete with Steptronic.

2010 MINI E Race

E-MINI has shown his prowess in the testing at the Nürburgring-Nordschleife Notorious circuit to break any records but to show that on their all-electric vehicle test cans manage a respectable lap time on the ‘Ring.

Amazing, a lightly modified race-spec version of the all-electric MINI ‘E’ completed a lap of the legendary 20.8 km-long “Green Hell” in a time of 09:51.45 minutes recording a top speed of 187 km/h or 116mph. It is to provide an impressive showcase of the great potential of the MINI E and its environment-friendly drive concept.

The 2010 MINI E Race is the electric hatchback was fitted with a special lightweight body and a roll cage, while other components, such as the suspension, brakes and tires, were race specification. In addition, the car shares the same 150 kW/204 hp electric motor, supplied with energy from 5,088 lithium-ion battery cells, with the standard MINI E, while power from the electric motor is sent to the front wheels via a single-stage helical gearbox with a lengthened gear ratio.

Model-specific conversions

• Interior: Recaro Pro Racer (HANS) CFRP seat, 6-way safety harness (3-inch), suede leather steering wheel 320 mm diameter

• Roll cage: Bolt construction (lightweight) CrMo4, approx. 35 kg incl. mounting materials

• Transmission: Mechanical multi-plate limited-slip differential with 40°/50° ramp breakover angle, 55 Nm preload

• Engine: Adjusted engine management settings

• Suspension: KW Variant 3 coilover suspension, tuned to the higher axle loads of the MINI E Race with modified damping characteristics and adjusted springs

• Exterior: Diffusers, rear wing, CFRP body parts

• Safety: Integration of special race ABS Differentiated main switch concept

MINI Coupe Concept Car Pictures

Check out these cool Mini Coupe concept car pictures. It has been exactly 50 years since the first MINI was introduced to the public on August 26, 1959. To celebrate MINI’s birthday, BMW has unveiled this sporty MINI Coupé Concept.

Limited to two seats, the car is designed to accommodate even the most powerful engine currently available in the MINI – and with the 1.6-litre twin-scroll turbocharged power unit, MINI Coupé promises to offer truly outstanding performance.

MINI Coupé Concept will be demonstrated at the Frankfurt Motor Show from the 17th to the 27th of September 2009