MINI2

270 Nm of Torque and 192 BHP.

The International Automobile Salon in Geneva (March 8th - 18th 2007) is the setting for the world premiere of the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S. From mid-2007, what is already the most powerful version of the compact premium model will be given an additional power boost under its bonnet. With the John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S, the output of the 1.6 litre twin scroll turbo engine is increased to an impressive 141 kW/192 bhp, with maximum torque up to 250 Newton metres in the engine speed range between 1,750 and 5,000 rpm. With the overboost function, the torque level can even be increased temporarily to 270 Nm for powerful acceleration in the engine speed range from 1,750 to 4,500 rpm.

Continue reading John Cooper Works Tuning Kit for the MINI Cooper S

Austria, famed for giving the World Arnie, Mozart, and Ferdinand Porsche at the head of the line to bring us a new MINI variant?

There’s lots of rumours and stories around at the moment about the future direction(s) the MINI brand may take. Lots of information tallies, and lots of it, as there’s plenty of crystal ball gazing taking place, just doesn’t figure at all. So we thought we’d add a little to the confusion.

Recently we received word that MINI is well advanced in it’s plans to produce the previously rumoured “MINI SUV” or “Colorado”, and the favoured candidate for the production location is Magna Steyr, in Graz. Magna Steyr currently produce the BMW X3, and also carried out development work for that vehicle.

“Test mule” MINIs have been spotted near the plant already, leading people to believe that Magna Steyr may have been working together with BMW on development of the 4WD MINI, and it seems that due to production capacity, as well as logistical reasons, Magna is by far the favoured production facility for the next new MINI.

Rumour suggests the car will be a sort of “Soft Roader” MINI, which will help further broaden the appeal of the MINI range. The styling is said to be more bullish and aggressive than the current second generation MINI. The idea appears to be to build in a bit more toughness in to the relatively cutesy MINI look. So this will be a bigger, more aggressive MINI with off-road ambitions. And it’s going to keep the “MINI” theme. Tough job for both the designers and engineers, but if they pull it off it could be a big hit. Which is just as well, as production forecasts are for as many as 80,000 vehicles a year.

Remarkable oversight presents unique buying opportunity.

Concerned about the 2nd Generation MINI Faults & Fixes forum? Feeling cautious that MINI quality control may not be all we’re hoping for just now? Want to allay your fears? Then look away now, and not at the stunning British Racing Green Cooper shown below.

Continue reading MINI Quality Control Off Colour

Has MINI USA Gone “Counterfeit” with their Advertising again?

We came across a link that caught our eye today, to a site titled “MINI Ripoff“. The instant reaction was that it must have been a site belonging to an unsatisfied customer, or maybe another “I hate the BMW MINI” style vent.

But no. It belongs to artist David Hornstein, who is claiming that MINI USA (via Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners) have ripped off an award winning idea of his with their recent “Parking Amulet” magazine pull out.

Continue reading MINI Risking Bad Car-ma?

MINI USA First To Use Advanced Technology to Communicate Directly With Consumers Through Pilot Program Launching In New York, Chicago, San Francisco and Miami.

Continue reading First Ever “Talking” Billboards Revealed to MINI Motorists