One of the most eagerly awaited new models for many years, the new Mini range, has just been released onto the South African market.Two models will be available, the Mini Cooper (in manual five-speed and CVT form)
and the white-hot Cooper S.
Styled to capture hearts in the way the original did, there are many classic
elements in the new Mini’s styling. The chromed radiator grille, upright windscreen
and large headlights, for example. But its thoroughly modern, with a curvy a
clamshell bonnet and wide stance.
On the MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper S both the roof and rear-view mirrors are
available also in white or black, regardless of the actual body colour. With
the roof in body colour, the electrically adjustable rear-view mirrors always
come in black.
As the top model in the range, the MINI Cooper S stands out in particular through
its air intake scoop in the front lid, the bumpers and air dams in body colour,
the discreet rear spoiler, the two chrome-plated tailpipes, the side-grille
with an integrated “S”, the chrome-plated fuel tank filler flap, the
white direction indicators at the front, as well as 16-inch light-alloy wheels
marking a clear difference versus the MINI Cooper.
Inside, individually designed, functional instruments provide precise information
on the car’s most important primary functions. At the same time, the designers
and engineers have skillfully carried forward typical features of the MINI into
the 21st century – for example in the design of the centre console and the oversized
speedometer in the middle of the dashboard. The interior of the MINI Cooper
S is dominated by top-quality textiles, surfaces and leather trim exclusive
to this top-of-the-range model.
Standard equipment is comprehensive – Mini Cooper gets air-conditioning, electric
mirrors, power steering, dual front and side airbags, height-adjustable driver’s
seat and steering wheel, radio/tape, electric front windows and remote central
locking. In addition to all this, the Cooper S boasts ASC+T (Automatic Stability
Control + Traction Control), head airbags, automatic climate control, front
fog lamps and sport seats, amongst others.
Engineered by BMW, the new Mini is claimed to set a new standard for small
cars. The multi-arm rear axle, for example, is quite unique in this segment
of the market. Anti-roll bars on the front and rear axle, the very direct electro-hydraulic
power steering, the low centre of gravity and the long wheelbase also contribute
to the driving experience reminiscent of a go-kart giving the driver motoring
pleasure at its best.
Disc brakes (vented at the front) on all four wheels, supplemented by ABS and
EBD (Electronic Brake Force Distribution) fitted as standard guarantee optimum
brake power with minimum stopping distance. ASC+T traction control (standard
on the MINI Cooper S) and DSC Dynamic Stability Control are both available as
an option.
Both MINIs are powered by four-cylinder, 16-valve 1,6-litre engines. Developing
a maximum output of 85 kW, the MINI Cooper is claimed to accelerate to 100 km/h
in 9,2 seconds and has a top speed of 200 km/h. Fuel consumption nevertheless
remains relatively modest at just 6,7 litres/100 km.
The dynamic MINI Cooper S features a six-speed manual gearbox and is also equipped
with a supercharger. Maximum power as a result rockets to no less than 120 kW.
Top speed is 218 km/h, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h coming in just 7,4 seconds.
At 8,4 litres/100 km fuel consumption is again remarkably low for a car of this
calibre.
