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2010 Mini Cooper New Options Review

January 2010
Filed under: MINI Car News | MINI Headlines

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Performance, efficiency and driving fun " MINIMALISM offers more of everything. The MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible will line up in 2010 with an extensively revised range of petrol engines, a move that sees the MINI brand building consistently on its position as the worlds leading maker of inspiringly sporty and exceptionally economical premium small cars. At the same time, all petrol MINI models will meet the EU5 exhaust emissions standard in Europe and the ULEV II standard in the USA from spring 2010. A fresh addition to the model range is the new MINI One Convertible. Powered by a low-fuel consumption and low-emissions four-cylinder engine producing 72 kW/98 hp, the new model offers an extremely economical way to enjoy that typical MINI go-kart feeling in soft-top form.

Targeted powertrain modifications further enhance the relationship between performance and CO2 emissions in all petrol-engined MINI models. An outstanding example of the progress made is the MINI Cooper S, whose new 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine now develops 135 kW/184 hp (an increase of 7 kW) yet emits only 136 grams of CO2 per kilometre in the EU test cycle " 13 g/km less than its predecessor. The MINI Cooper and MINI One also take the balance of driving fun and CO2 emissions to another new level. The new MINI One MINIMALISM Line, available with two engine variants, has the lowest emissions values of any petrol MINI, using optimised engine technology, Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start Stop function, Shift Point Display and other MINIMALISM measures to achieve a CO2 figure of 119 g/km.

The MINIMALISM concept covers all the technological measures in the current MINI line-up which help to further increase the driving fun typical of the brand at the same time as keeping both fuel economy and CO2 emissions as low as possible. In the new MINI petrol powerplants, measures such as reducing friction and improving heat management in the basic engine have enabled further improvements in efficiency. Added to which, the engines are now served by a map-controlled oil pump with need-based operation, which " in a similar way to the electromechanical power steering and further optimised coolant pump " ensures extremely efficient use of energy.

The MINI Cooper S: fully variable valve control delivers unbeatable efficiency in the 1.6-litre class.

The new 1.6-litre engine in the MINI Cooper S boasts another special feature unique in the small car segment. This is the first time that the twin-scroll turbocharger and petrol direct injection system of this powerplant have been offered together with fully variable valve control. Based on the VALVETRONIC system used in BMW engines, this throttle-free load control technology optimises the engines responses and enables a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. It does so by adjusting the lift and opening period of the intake valves to the drivers power requirements within fractions of a second.

The new engine, fitted in the MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper S Clubman and MINI Cooper S Convertible, is the worlds most efficient unit in this displacement class. 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. An Overboost function allows this pulling power to be raised to a maximum 260 Nm for a short spell, placing additional thrust at the drivers disposal when a particularly dynamic burst of acceleration is required. The MINI Cooper S sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.0 seconds on the way to a top speed of 228 km/h. These performance figures share top billing with average fuel economy in the EU test cycle of 5.8 litres per 100 km " 0.4 litres below the value of the predecessor car " and CO2 output of 136 g/km.

The new MINI Cooper S Clubman now packs 0 to 100 km/h acceleration of 7.5 seconds and a top speed of 227 km/h, combined with average fuel consumption of 5.9 litres per 100 km and CO2 emissions of 137 g/km. The new MINI Cooper S Convertible, meanwhile, reaches 100 km/h from rest in just 7.3 seconds and a top speed of 225 km/h, yet posts average fuel economy of 6.0 litres per 100 km and a CO2 figure of 139 g/km.

The MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper S Clubman and MINI Cooper S Convertible are fitted as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed automatic, complete with shift paddles mounted on the steering wheel, can be ordered as an option for all models. In future, manual MINI Cooper S models will come with a new, self-adjusting clutch. Automatic readjustment ensures that the pedal feel you expect from a MINI is there to be enjoyed over the cars full service life. Plus, the synchronisation of the gears is further optimised by a carbon coating for the clutch linings. The automatic gearbox, available for the MINI Cooper and MINI One as well as the MINI Cooper S, stands out with its high-efficiency set-up. This enables further significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO2 emissions in all models in which it is fitted.

A 2 kW increase in the output of its 1.6-litre naturally aspirated engine to 90 kW/122 hp further sharpens the sporting edge of the MINI Cooper. The four-cylinder unit " which likewise features fully variable valve control, as well as optimisations to other details " generates peak output at 6,000 rpm and maximum torque of 160 Nm at 4,250 rpm. The MINI Cooper sprints from a standstill to 100 km/h in 9.1 seconds. Top speed is 203 km/h. This impressive performance contrasts with average fuel economy of 5.4 litres per 100 km in the EU test cycle and CO2 emissions reduced to just 127 g/km.

The new MINI Cooper Clubman posts a 0 to 100 km/h acceleration figure of 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h, combined with average fuel economy of 5.5 litres per 100 km and a CO2 figure of 129 g/km. The new MINI Cooper Convertible notches up 100 km/h in 9.8 seconds en route to a maximum 198 km/h. Average fuel economy is 5.7 litres per 100 km; CO2 emissions stand at 133 g/km.

With displacement increased from 1.4 litres to 1.6 litres and output raised by 2 kW to 72 kW/98 hp, the new MINI One 72 kW can now claim even greater agility. Moreover, its extensively revised engine helps to further reduce CO2 emissions. The four-cylinder powerplant, again equipped with fully variable valve control, releases maximum output at 6,000 rpm. Peak torque increases to 153 Nm " up by 13 Nm " and is available from as low down as 3,000 rpm.

The MINI One 72 kW displays the fruits of this performance boost in the form of enhanced sprinting power. 0 to 100 km/h is negotiated in 10.5 seconds " 0.4 seconds quicker than its predecessor " and top speed is now 186 km/h. The MINI One 72 kW blends its sporting spirit with exemplary average fuel economy figures of 5.4 litres per 100 km in the EU test cycle and a drop in CO2 emissions to 127 g/km. The new MINI One Clubman also benefits in a variety of ways from the optimised powertrain technology. It needs just 11.1 seconds to move from 0 to 100 km/h and powers on to a top speed of 185 km/h. Average fuel economy in the EU test cycle stands at 5.5 litres per 100 km, while CO2 emissions are 129 g/km.

A breath of fresh air, a blow to CO2: the new MINI One Convertible.

The qualities of the new 72 kW/98 hp engine also come convincingly to the fore with the roof folded down. The four-cylinder unit in the new MINI One Convertible takes an extremely efficient route to marrying inspiring agility with the open-air driving experience typical of the brand. The new MINI One Convertible accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds and on to a maximum 181 km/h. And yet the open-top four-seater burns a mere 5.7 litres per 100 km in the EU test cycle and emits just 133 g/km of CO2.

The new MINI One Convertible is the most economical way of enjoying driving fun in an open-top premium car. This attractive entry-level variant completes the range alongside the MINI Cooper S Convertible and MINI Cooper Convertible models. The new MINI One Convertible displays all the features which highlight the unique style of the brands open-top four-seater cars. Beautifully chiselled body surfaces, a sporty, stretched side view, short front and rear overhangs and large wheel cut-outs define the cars unmistakable appearance. The typically MINI proportions are emphasised by the fabric soft-top with standard electrohydraulic opening and closing function. Cutting-edge chassis technology, including EPS electromechanical steering, unlocks that hallmark go-kart feeling. The standard driving stability control system DSC, meanwhile, ensures active safety at the highest level. Occupant protection is maximised by measures including four airbags and the single-piece roll-over bar, which extends automatically from behind the rear seats when required.

A further hallmark of the only premium open-top model in the small car segment is the broad scope for individualisation thanks to the customer-specified composition of exterior paint shade, soft-top colour and interior design, coupled with the extensive selection of optional equipment and accessories. Among the convertible-specific options also available for the MINI One Convertible is the Openometer, which records the amount of driving time spent with the roof open.

The entry-level variant in the MINI model range, the MINI One 55 kW, also benefits from a fundamental drive unit refresh, with the displacement of its four-cylinder engine likewise increased to 1.6 litres. Maximum output remains unchanged at 55 kW/75 hp at 6,000 rpm, but peak torque is now 140 Nm " up by 20 Nm " and can be sourced from as low down as 2,250 rpm. All of which allows the new MINI One 55 kW to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 13.2 seconds and reach a top speed of 175 km/h. Average fuel economy in the EU test cycle stands at 5.4 litres per 100 km, while CO2 emissions drop to 127 g/km.

Joining the range for model year 2010 are two variants of the new MINI One MINIMALISM Line, which focus even more intensely on minimising fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. They come with a choice of the four-cylinder engine that drives the MINI One 55 kW or that of the MINI One 72 kW, achieve performance figures commensurate with each model, and combine these with an even greater degree of efficiency. Extremely focused and extensively employed MINIMALISM measures bring average fuel consumption for each model down to 5.1 litres per 100 km in the EU test cycle. CO2 emissions are likewise identical, at 119 g/km. The MINI One 55 kW MINIMALISM Line and the MINI One 72 kW MINIMALISM Line therefore have the lowest fuel consumption and emissions figures of all the brands petrol-engined models.

The MINI One MINIMALISM Line is also fitted as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox and the driving stability control system DSC. Stand-out exterior features include aerodynamically optimised wheels, exclusive Pepper White design elements in the radiator grille and on the exterior mirror caps, and a model-specific logo. Plus, like every MINI it is configured according to customer specification. Customers keen to express other facets of their individual style in addition to their appreciation of economical and low-emission mobility can therefore also choose from a wide selection of exterior paint finishes, interior colours and upholstery variants for their MINI One MINIMALISM Line, as well as an extensive range of optional equipment and accessories.

New petrol engines with more power and efficiency
The One show: MINI One Convertible takes a bow
MINI Rainbow colours raise personalisation to a higher plane
MINI Graphite model range extended to include MINI Clubman

MINI models are to benefit from a wide of technical advances and personalisation options with effect from spring 2010. At the top of the list are a new range of petrol engines that offer more power and torque while reducing both emissions and fuel consumption. In addition, a new MINI One Convertible will bring the thrill of open air MINI driving to a wider audience. MINI is also raising the customisation possibilities by offering a range of unique Rainbow colour options and an extension to the MINI Graphite Special Edition model range to include Clubman models.

“Hot on the heels of the launch of customer field trials for the electric MINI E, MINI is introducing this array of new technology and features for the new decade, said Jochen Goller, Director of MINI UK. “Once again, our dedication to continuous improvement will bring substantial benefits in both efficiency and performance to our customers. Better still, there will be no price increase when the new models go on sale in March 2010.

New petrol engines
A new and improved version of the MINI petrol engine will be fitted to all First, One, Cooper and Cooper S models in the Hatch, Convertible and Clubman ranges. The MINI First and One models will now be fitted with a 1.6 litre engine, replacing the 1.4, and VALVETRONIC valve operation that delivers more torque and better fuel consumption. All MINI petrol-engined models will conform to European EU5 emissions standards or ULEV 11 in the USA.
VALVETRONIC variable valve timing delivers a five per cent improvement on its own while an on- demand, map-controlled oil pump achieves a further 2.5 per cent fuel saving. An improved, low friction engine vacuum pump accounts for another one per cent and a map-regulated water pump working on a pulsed cycle (rather than simply on or off) saves 1.2 per cent fuel.

Reduced friction from polished camshaft and main bearings, improved heat management and the specific features above combine to contribute more efficient use of energy by the new MINI range.
The fuel consumption improvements have been made despite the fact that the testing procedures under EU5 reduce certified gains.

MINI First
The entry level MINI, MINI First, receives a new version of the 1.6 litre four cylinder engine that produces 75 hp, the same as its predecessor. The extra capacity has been designed to produce more torque which is higher by almost 17 per cent at 140 Nm. As a result fuel consumption in the EU cycle is 52.3 mpg and CO2 emissions 127 g/km. Top speed of MINI First is 109 mph while the 0-62 mph acceleration takes 13.2 seconds.

MINI One
The new engine enables MINI One to increase both power (by three per cent to 98hp) and torque (by nine per cent to 153 Nm at 3,000 rpm). The efficiencies achieved through this new technology also deliver consumption of 52.3 mpg on the combined cycle while emissions fall to127 g/km. On the road the true spirit of MINI is revealed with top speed rising to 116 mph and zero to 62 mph acceleration taking just 10.5 seconds, a 0.4 second improvement.

The MINI One Clubman benefits from the same powertrain improvements and offers 0-62 mph in 11.1 seconds and a top speed of 115 mph. EU cycle fuel consumption falls to 51.4 mpg (combined cycle) and emissions to just 129 g/km.

MINI One Convertible
Since its launch in 2009 the enduring appeal of the MINI Convertible has been proven by strong demand. So far it has only been possible to buy a Cooper, Cooper S or John Cooper Works Convertible, so the introduction of a One Convertible provides a much lower entry point for keen fresh air fans.

The MINI One Convertible shares the new 1.6 litre VALVETRONIC engine of its Hatch and Clubman cousins, and produces the same 98hp and 153 Nm of torque all for a sub-£15,000 price tag. The new model accelerates from 0-62 mph in 11.3 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 112 mph. Despite this it brings fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions to a new level in the convertible market, recording 49.6 mpg (combined cycle) and 133 g/km respectively.

The open top four-seater features a fabric roof that opens and closes electro-hydraulically at the touch of a button up to 20 mph. Designed as a Convertible from the outset, MINI Convertible offers a torsionally-stiff body that allows it to capitalise on cutting edge chassis technology to release that special MINI go-kart feeling. Naturally the MINI One Convertible has a high standard equipment list including air-conditioning and is equipped with all the sophisticated active safety features of the Cooper and S including EPS electromechanical steering, DSC stability control, four airbags and the rear rollover bar behind the rear seats that pops up automatically in the event of a rollover incident.

MINI One Convertible can, like all MINIs, be specified with a wide range of options to personalise it to an owners taste. These include a wide range of exterior paint colours, interior design choices, hood colours and the Openometer. This MINI Convertible-specific option records the amount of time spent with the roof down. It is, after all, the principal purpose of owning a soft-top MINI
The on-the-road price for MINI One Convertible is £14,995.

MINI Cooper S
The iconic Cooper S model also gets more poke with less smoke. It is equipped for the first time with a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and fully variable valve control. The variable valve control is based on BMWs familiar VALVETRONIC system that adjusts valve lift and opening times in direct relationship to the drivers command on the throttle pedal.

The result is the most efficient hot hatch in its class: the 1.6 litre unit produces 9 hp more peak power at 184 hp while peak torque is 240 Nm, delivered from as low as 1,600 rpm through to 5,000 rpm. This flexibility is enhanced by an Overboost function that delivers 260 Nm for short periods when it is most needed, for example when overtaking. The Cooper S Hatch sprints from 0 to 62 mph in exactly 7 seconds on its way to a top speed of 142 mph, But its not just about go. It delivers improved EU cycle fuel consumption of 48.7 mpg (combined cycle) lower by 3.1 mpg, while CO2 emissions are now 13 g/km lower at 136 g/km.

All three models are equipped as standard with a six speed manual gearbox or, optionally, a six speed automatic gearbox with shift paddles on the steering wheel. Manual Cooper S models will be fitted with a new self-adjusting clutch with carbon coated linings that reduces service costs and maintains consistent pedal feel but also improves gear synchronisation.

MINI Cooper
At the heart of the MINI range the largest-selling model, the MINI Cooper, also benefits from the new engine enhancements. A power hike to 122 hp (+3 hp) and peak torque of 160 Nm @ 4,250 rpm help the Hatch to 62 mph in 9.1 seconds and a top speed of 127 mph. Sharing all the new engine features of the Cooper S except the turbocharger, the Cooper achieves 52.3 mpg (combined cycle) and emits only 127 g/km of CO2.

More beef but it wont cost a bean
Not only will customers feel these improvements in their pockets through lower fuel and taxation charges, they will sense them through the accelerator pedal too...but MINI will ask no price increase for the enhanced MINI models " not a sausage!

More lead in your pencil
Launched in April 2009 the MINI Hatch Graphite Special Edition model has proven to be a huge hit with MINI fans. Resplendent in its special Dark Silver metallic livery and offering unique alloy wheels, white indicator lenses, piano black interior trim, bonnet stripes and special Graphite badging as standard equipment, this special edition stands out from the crowd. It also stands out in the used car market offering the highest residual value position of any current MINI model.
In February 2010 this hugely successful model will be joined by its larger and more practical counterpart, the MINI Clubman Graphite Special Edition model. Available on MINI One, Cooper and Cooper D variants, the MINI Clubman Graphite offers the same Dark Silver paintwork (normally only available for Cooper S models) and the same enhanced level of standard equipment as on the Hatch. The raised level of standard specification is priced at a discount of 25% versus the normal single option costs so, as is often the case, MINI owners can have their cake and eat it.

A new level of exclusivity for MINI / Somewhere over the rainbow
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 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. Prices will be announced in March but, rest assured, it wont cost the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow.

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