The new MINI hatch line-up
was complete, after the new MINI One and MINI Cooper D models were unveiled
to
the public at the International Geneva Motor Show in March 2007. The entry-level One features a perky 95hp 1.4-litre
gasoline engine, while the Cooper D boasts performance and fuel efficiency from an all-new 1.6-litre 110hp turbodiesel
powerplant.
A Cooper-badged MINI diesel hints at the sporty nature of the new model. MINI fans will be equally excited at the prospect
of the Cooper D promising to be the most fuel-efficient and cleanest MINI ever built. In comparison to the outgoing MINI
One D's combined fuel consumption of 58.9mpg, the Cooper D is capable of 64.2mpg.
MINI One also benefits from a significant improvement in both fuel consumption and emissions over the outgoing model.
49.6mpg is achievable from the One's new 1.4-litre unit, compared to 41.5mpg from its predecessor. CO2 emissions
are now 138g/km, against 164g/km produced by the previous model.
The MINI One will cost C$22,000 on the road, and the MINI Cooper D will be C$28,000.
Both models feature the new body shape already seen on the recently launched MINI Cooper and Cooper S models.
Interior quality enhancements and unique design features remain key characteristics of the One and Cooper D.
However, several individual highlights set the cars apart.
MINI One: Technology highlights
The 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine in the MINI One is derived from the 1.6-litre unit that features in the current Cooper
model. Smooth power delivery and maximum efficiency are achieved using fully variable valve control, through a
system based on BMW Group's unique VALVETRONIC technology.
Maximum output of 95hp at 6,000rpm is produced by the compact engine, which is constructed from lightweight
aluminium. The 5hp power increase on its predecessor leads to a peak torque figure of 140Nm at 4,000rpm.
The innovative powertrain is key to the MINI One's ability to ensure a grin-inducing driving experience, yet offers
the driver outstanding fuel economy and low emissions. A 0-62mph time of 10.9 seconds and top speed of 115mph
are complemented by an average fuel consumption figure of 49.6mpg – an efficiency increase of 15 per cent
compared to the outgoing model.
MINI Cooper D: Technology highlights
The MINI Cooper D's brand new turbocharged diesel engine develops 110hp at 4,000rpm. Under normal conditions
peak torque is achieved between 1,750 and 2,000rpm. Deploying the engine's Overboost function gives the Cooper D
an additional amount of torque. MINI enthusiasts will recognise this torque figure is identical to that produced by the new
MINI Cooper S.
The turbocharger system features variable turbine geometry, ensuring optimum smoothness, efficiency and response
even at low engine speeds.
Second-generation common rail diesel technology operating at a maximum pressure of 24,000 psi is key to the new
diesel engine's combustion process. Additionally, refinement is achieved using a precise multiple-injection process for
each operating cycle. The combustion chambers have been optimised in their shape and dimensions to prevent
unwanted turbulence and maintain a smooth and consistent combustion process at all times.
A diesel particulate filter almost eliminates diesel exhaust emissions and helps to make the MINI diesel engine one
of the most environmentally friendly engines in its class.
Six-speed gearbox as standard
The new MINI One and new MINI Cooper D both come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Dynamic acceleration is a result of the precise shift control provided by carbon friction plates and helical gears
operating within an optimised syncromesh. With its long transmission ratio, the sixth gear allows optimum fuel
economy, even at high speeds.
The MINI One will be available to customers with the option of a six-speed automatic transmission. A key feature is the
Steptronic function, which allows the driver to shift gears in sequence using the gear lever or the standard-fit paddles
on the steering wheel. For keener drivers, a Sports Button is available as an option for even shorter gearshift times
and faster throttle response.
Design highlights
Features including a black finish to the car's radiator grille bars, door mirrors and tailgate handle are exclusive to the
MINI One. The new MINI Cooper D's sporting prowess is underlined by the addition of a pronounced power dome on the
car's hood. A discernibly larger air intake than on other MINI models features on the Cooper D, as does a crossbar in body
colour on the lower intake.
Chassis and suspension
The go-kart driving experience is enhanced in the new MINI One and Cooper D through a new suspension set-up, as
introduced on the MINI Cooper and Cooper S. MINI is the only car in its segment to be fitted with a central-arm rear axle
featuring elaborate kinematics for optimum tyre-to-road contact.
Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) incorporating modern mechanical control gives the driver increased precision
feedback. Variable power assistance dependent on speed ensures MINI drivers are guaranteed an involving drive every
time they step into the car.
IN THE MEANTIME, WHILE WE WAIT:
the public at the International Geneva Motor Show in March 2007. The entry-level One features a perky 95hp 1.4-litre
gasoline engine, while the Cooper D boasts performance and fuel efficiency from an all-new 1.6-litre 110hp turbodiesel
powerplant.
A Cooper-badged MINI diesel hints at the sporty nature of the new model. MINI fans will be equally excited at the prospect
of the Cooper D promising to be the most fuel-efficient and cleanest MINI ever built. In comparison to the outgoing MINI
One D's combined fuel consumption of 58.9mpg, the Cooper D is capable of 64.2mpg.
MINI One also benefits from a significant improvement in both fuel consumption and emissions over the outgoing model.
49.6mpg is achievable from the One's new 1.4-litre unit, compared to 41.5mpg from its predecessor. CO2 emissions
are now 138g/km, against 164g/km produced by the previous model.
The MINI One will cost C$22,000 on the road, and the MINI Cooper D will be C$28,000.
Both models feature the new body shape already seen on the recently launched MINI Cooper and Cooper S models.
Interior quality enhancements and unique design features remain key characteristics of the One and Cooper D.
However, several individual highlights set the cars apart.
MINI One: Technology highlights
The 1.4-litre four-cylinder engine in the MINI One is derived from the 1.6-litre unit that features in the current Cooper
model. Smooth power delivery and maximum efficiency are achieved using fully variable valve control, through a
system based on BMW Group's unique VALVETRONIC technology.
Maximum output of 95hp at 6,000rpm is produced by the compact engine, which is constructed from lightweight
aluminium. The 5hp power increase on its predecessor leads to a peak torque figure of 140Nm at 4,000rpm.
The innovative powertrain is key to the MINI One's ability to ensure a grin-inducing driving experience, yet offers
the driver outstanding fuel economy and low emissions. A 0-62mph time of 10.9 seconds and top speed of 115mph
are complemented by an average fuel consumption figure of 49.6mpg – an efficiency increase of 15 per cent
compared to the outgoing model.
MINI Cooper D: Technology highlights
The MINI Cooper D's brand new turbocharged diesel engine develops 110hp at 4,000rpm. Under normal conditions
peak torque is achieved between 1,750 and 2,000rpm. Deploying the engine's Overboost function gives the Cooper D
an additional amount of torque. MINI enthusiasts will recognise this torque figure is identical to that produced by the new
MINI Cooper S.
The turbocharger system features variable turbine geometry, ensuring optimum smoothness, efficiency and response
even at low engine speeds.
Second-generation common rail diesel technology operating at a maximum pressure of 24,000 psi is key to the new
diesel engine's combustion process. Additionally, refinement is achieved using a precise multiple-injection process for
each operating cycle. The combustion chambers have been optimised in their shape and dimensions to prevent
unwanted turbulence and maintain a smooth and consistent combustion process at all times.
A diesel particulate filter almost eliminates diesel exhaust emissions and helps to make the MINI diesel engine one
of the most environmentally friendly engines in its class.
Six-speed gearbox as standard
The new MINI One and new MINI Cooper D both come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox.
Dynamic acceleration is a result of the precise shift control provided by carbon friction plates and helical gears
operating within an optimised syncromesh. With its long transmission ratio, the sixth gear allows optimum fuel
economy, even at high speeds.
The MINI One will be available to customers with the option of a six-speed automatic transmission. A key feature is the
Steptronic function, which allows the driver to shift gears in sequence using the gear lever or the standard-fit paddles
on the steering wheel. For keener drivers, a Sports Button is available as an option for even shorter gearshift times
and faster throttle response.
Design highlights
Features including a black finish to the car's radiator grille bars, door mirrors and tailgate handle are exclusive to the
MINI One. The new MINI Cooper D's sporting prowess is underlined by the addition of a pronounced power dome on the
car's hood. A discernibly larger air intake than on other MINI models features on the Cooper D, as does a crossbar in body
colour on the lower intake.
Chassis and suspension
The go-kart driving experience is enhanced in the new MINI One and Cooper D through a new suspension set-up, as
introduced on the MINI Cooper and Cooper S. MINI is the only car in its segment to be fitted with a central-arm rear axle
featuring elaborate kinematics for optimum tyre-to-road contact.
Electrical Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) incorporating modern mechanical control gives the driver increased precision
feedback. Variable power assistance dependent on speed ensures MINI drivers are guaranteed an involving drive every
time they step into the car.
IN THE MEANTIME, WHILE WE WAIT:
Now that Toyota has sold so
many Priuses that the popular hybrid no longer qhalifies for federal tax
credits, and they are
essentially sold out until the new generation cars show up next year, people might be wondering where to go for a high
mileage vehicle. Volkswagen's new 50-state legal Jetta TDI is going on sale around about Labor day and our good
friends at the IRS have decreed that people who purchase one will be able to get a check back from the feds for $1,300.
The clean diesel Jetta qualifies under the Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle income tax credit.
That would bring the price premium for the diesel to only $700 over a comparable Jetta with a gas engine.
The EPA has rated the Jetta at 29/40mpg city highway with a 6-speed DSG gearbox.
Real world numbers are likely to be closer to the low 40s for most drivers, but we'll be finding out for ourselves soon.
At the first drive of Mercedes new BlueTec diesels last month, company officials expressed hope that those vehicles
would also qualify for the credit.
essentially sold out until the new generation cars show up next year, people might be wondering where to go for a high
mileage vehicle. Volkswagen's new 50-state legal Jetta TDI is going on sale around about Labor day and our good
friends at the IRS have decreed that people who purchase one will be able to get a check back from the feds for $1,300.
The clean diesel Jetta qualifies under the Advanced Lean Burn Technology Motor Vehicle income tax credit.
That would bring the price premium for the diesel to only $700 over a comparable Jetta with a gas engine.
The EPA has rated the Jetta at 29/40mpg city highway with a 6-speed DSG gearbox.
Real world numbers are likely to be closer to the low 40s for most drivers, but we'll be finding out for ourselves soon.
At the first drive of Mercedes new BlueTec diesels last month, company officials expressed hope that those vehicles
would also qualify for the credit.