2015 Mini Cooper Reviews
The brand new MINI carries forward its predecessor's aspiration to staying the best original of the superior small-car segment, underpinning its exceptional position with important developments in most areas concerning driving enjoyment, quality and personal flair. The refinement of its own layout indicators the older nature of the brand-new version, reflected in a considerable optimization of aforementioned aspects as space, security, fittings, materials and finish quality along with sportiness and ride comfort. The improvement of product material embodied within the new edition of the MINI derives straight from the BMW Group's excellent improvement knowledge and assumes a far more substantial form than before within the history of the brand. A fresh generation of engines increases driving efficiency and enjoyment, and there's a broader collection of advanced driver support systems along with MINI Joined infotainment amenities. The MINI HeadUp Display, lED headlamps, Emergency Contact and also the MINI Joined XL Trip Mate with Real-time Traffic Info are other highlights within the gear application just previously seen in higher vehicle sections, further underscoring the superior nature of the brand-new MINI.
The brand new MINI Cooper features a 3-cylinder petrol-engine with a peak production of 100 kW/136 bhp. Another new attribute: the conventional 6-speed manual transmission, together with a 6-speed automatic transmission that's recommended for all engine versions. Improved motor performance, substantial MINIMALISM technologies, optimised weight and improved aerodynamic qualities go with each other to create a decrease in fuel consumption amounts of up to 27 percent when compared with predecessor models. All version versions of the brand-new MINI also fulfill the EU6 exhaust emission standard.
Traditional MINI proportions, the characteristic threeway separation of body corpus, allround greenhouse and roof along with a fresh take on hallmark style characteristics explain the outside of the brand-new version, that has grown by some ten centimetres long.
A fresh display and operating theory unites the brand - fashion look and feel of the cockpit with optimised performance. Engine speed and road speed in addition to several other crucial drivingrelated info is shown in the newly-designed instrument cluster to the steering column. The characteristic central device with the optional color display of up-to 8.8 inches in size provides feedback on procedures performed utilizing the MINI Controller in the center console along with providing visual feedback on driving state as well as on several functions activated by the driver.
The GREEN and modes ACTIVITY could be activated besides the conventional MID mode. Together with the automatic transmission, the efficiencyoriented GREEN mode also includes a perform with decoupled drive-train.
The variety of discretionary driver support systems has-been considerably enlarged.
Unique within the competitive environment, the MINI incar infotainment system additionally goes into an entirely new dimension. As the newest MINI could be fitted with a SIM-CARD that's permanently installed in the auto the first vehicle in its section. This means that Crisis Call with automatic detection of injury severity and vehicle location is accessible, together with MINI Teleservices. Features which may be incorporated within the automobile via apps within the regions of infotainment and internet sites are currently available for both Apple iPhone as well as for smart phones utilizing the operating-system Android.
Exterior style: unmistakable proportions, striking lines, highend highlights.
The brand new MINI-SETS out to keep the international success story of the first-ever premium auto in the little car segment. Simultaneously that it carries forward the convention of the classic MINI that stretches back over over 50 years. Its style reflects these historical roots along with an evolutionary refinement of the current automobile concept. The hallmark brand proportions are maintained thanks to exactly defined growth of the outside dimensions.
That makes it 7 millimetres more, 44 millimetres wider and 98 millimetres longer than its predecessor. Cornering agility and ride comfort advantage from such new measurements as do the number of space available to residents and also the luggage compartment volume. Baggage compartment volume is raised by 51 litres to 211 litres.
Like its proportions, the auto's hallmark brand styling and also the threeway separation of physiology that's so typical of MINI both lead to its unmistakable look. The glasshouse, corpus and roof at the top are clearly separated from each other in visible conditions. In the side-view, the window image tapering off towards the back makes a dynamic wedge shape that's indicative of the forward drive characterising the newest MINI.
The broad course and short overhangs emphasise the automobile's corpus more strikingly than in the past as it sits potently along with the wheels. The stature of the brand-new MINI is also underscored by the visible connection between the front and rear-wheel arches. This really is developed by way of a dramatic sill line plus a character line running above and almost parallel to that in the side-view. A dynamic downward curve is featured by the two lines at both front and back, therefore directing attention to both big wheel-arches.
Conventional style attributes like the contour of the radiator grille, the side index encompasses called the headlights, side scuttles, the vertical rear light clusters and also the periphery throughout the bottom edge of the body are reinterpreted. Chosen design attributes are given a specially highend emphasis through a new surface design within their particular setting. The contours of the rear light clusters, headlamps and wheel-arches are outlined through exact edging. The headlights in the front apron and also the visible impact of the side scuttle components is improved by means of outstanding lines in the adjoining surfaces in every single case.
Besides the side scuttle components, the radiator grille of the model form now also bears an "S" emblem with chrome surround.
Unique within the section:
Comprehensive design revision is applied to both traditional circular headlamps, having an extensive chrome ring environment, and the similarly circular added headlamps incorporated within the front apron. The light of the headlamps are clearly structured, with all the arched change indicators organized in the lower area. In while fog lamps can even be incorporated here as an optional extra, the normal version, the day driving light and the side light is created inside the extra headlights.
The brand new MINI will be the first vehicle in its section to provide the choice of LED headlamps. The white LED models supply the light-source for both high and low beam. They're also surrounded by an LED day driving band, the lower portion that reaches to the white turn indicators. The discretionary fog lamps are similarly accessible halogen or LED, based on preference.
For the market launch of the brand-new MINI, the collection of exterior body finishes is expanded to comprise five new colors. The roofing and exterior mirror caps could be completed in a contrasting color - black or white - as an alternative and at no additional cost. Roof rails are also accessible for the brand new MINI for the very first time. Other methods of including a bit of personal style contain Chrome Line for the outside and black or white bonnet stripes.
Interior decorating: new screen, hallmark MINI-STYLE and operating concept.
High end color, exact lines and material mixtures and contemporary functionality emphasize the orientation of the brand-new MINI towards driving enjoyment plus a superior interior ambience. The flat structure of the cockpit and also the round or elliptical contours of important attributes like devices, air outlets and door trim elements are traditional style parts which undertake a far more advanced and particularly highquality form within the brand new MINI. A fresh screen and working theory offers the foundation for instinctive, safe and suitable charge of the motorist infotainment, help and relaxation systems, that have been considerably expanded in relation to the functions accessible.
Among the most significant new features is the instrument cluster to the steering column. Road speed, engine-speed and fuel level are shown on vertically arranged round devices. The speedometer scale comprises a color panel for car standing screens, Test Control messages and visual indicators concerning driver support systems now activated.
As formerly required is not essential within the cockpit of the brand-new MINI important insertion. Over the toggle-switch there are three annular control switches for heat and ac. The switches for the fog lamps and headlamps have been repositioned and are currently found in the instrument cluster near the controls.
Central device with striking light configuration and new capabilities.
Conditioned upon the auto's fittings, the center of its own interior surface functions as a 4-line TFT display otherwise a color screen up-to 8.8 inches in size which displays working responses for vehicle functions, air-conditioning, infotainment and communicating, navigation maps and route instructions including the particular images for MINI Linked Solutions. Stress, rotary and change moves too as bookmark buttons and onetouch enable secure, intuitive and convenient procedure founded in the fundamentals of the BMW iDrive system - a power through the whole automotive sector.
The working theory and display is supported by a lighting layout within the place of the central device that's unique to MINI. LED models across the outer edge of the device - recommended in six colors - can react to the particular operating measures and also to present situation on the street, based on driver setting. A change within the desired inside temperature is affirmed by LED models which illuminate in blue or red. Course guidance information supplied by the navigation system can be visually supported by the ring: the nearer the vehicle reaches the level, the smaller the place in the border of the central device.
Common MINI variety of materials and colors for greatest personal flair.
Improved interior room and a broad variety of smart details make for additional advancements in the place of functionality. The back backrest having a 60: 40-split is not just foldable, its tilt angle could be adjusted also. Storage facilities and numerous cupholders make it simple to have travel utensils and beverages along within the vehicle, and there's an added storage compartment behind the strip to the passenger-side.
Seats in a cloth / leather finish and leather mix can be obtained as a substitute to the conventional cloth edition. A model - special assortment of interior surfaces, upholstery colors, Color Lines and other design characteristics - including Chrome Line for the interior and also the light package with orangecoloured ambient lighting and LED interior lights - provides a broad variety of options for interior customisation.
2013 Mini Cooper S Roadster - Exterior and Interior Walkaround - 2013 Montreal Auto Show
The launch of the brand new MINI sees a change of generation in the area of engines. For the very first time both 3-cylinder and 4-cylinder engines are employed, all featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. Within the petrol engines of the brand-new MINI Cooper S as well as the new MINI Cooper this contains turbocharging, direct fuel injection, variable camshaft control in the intake and exhaust side (double VANOS) and variable valve control in the type of VALVETRONIC, as patented by the BMW Group. The diesel engine of the brand-new MINI Cooper D has a turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry as well as the most recent generation of common rail direct injection with fuel injection pressure raised to 2 000 bar for highprecision fuel metering and clean combustion. The end result: a further increase to driving enjoyment as well as increased effectiveness and adherence to the EU6 exhaust emission standard. While their fuel consumption and emission levels are reduced as compared to the predecessor models by around 27 percent all model variants of the new MINI have improved engine and driving performance figures.
For highly energetic power delivery, the new MINI Cooper S is powered by 2.0litre 4-cylinder engine with a peak output of 141 kW/192 bhp which goes on stream between 4 700 and 60000 rpm, providing its maximum torque of 280 Newton-metres at 1 250 rpm. Torsion may also briefly be increased to 300 Newton-metres by means of an overboost function. Because of this, acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes only 6.8 seconds (automatic: (6.7 seconds), while the top rate is 235 km/h (233 km/h).
With output increased by 10 kW/14 bhp to 100 kW/136 bhp between 4 500 and 60000 rpm along with a maximum torque of 220 Newton-metres (230 Nm with overboost), now offered at 1 250 rpm, the 1.5 litre 3-cylinder petrol-engine in the new MINI Cooper also permits much sportier driving performance than the predecessor power unit. The new MINI Cooper sprints in 7.9 seconds (automatic: 7.8 seconds) from standing to 100 km/h, while its top rate is 210 km/h in each instance.
The brand new MINI Cooper D additionally lines up for the beginning with increased power as well as a decreased level of fuel consumption when compared with its predecessor. The most torque of 270 Newton-metres goes on flow at 1 750 rpm, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 9.2 seconds with both manual and automatic transmission. The top speed is 205 (204) km/h. The new MINI Cooper D also achieves a new optimum when it comes to fuel consumption, with an average of 3.5 to 3.6 litres (3.7 to 3.8 litres) per 100 kilometres.
New manual and automatic transmission with optimised efficiency.
The automatic and manual transmission, also just developed, make an extra contribution to improved performance. The new MINI is fitted as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission which differs from the predecessor model in its reduced weight and improved change comfort deriving from the use of carbon friction linings for the synchroniser rings. A pendulum in the dual - mass flywheel compensates for torsional vibrations, thus improving the acoustic and vibrational properties of the drive system when travelling at low motor speeds for greater fuel-efficiency. When shifting down a new gear sensor also enables active engine-speed adaptation for especially sporty when accelerating shifting and increased comfort.
The 6 - speed automatic transmission available for all variants of the new MINI offers improved performance, enhanced shift comfort and heightened shift dynamics. Optimised hydraulics and these breakthroughs are reached by means of said elements as an even more efficient transmission control system, a far more direct relationship. The brand new MINI also combines automatic transmission with the automatic engine start/stop function for the first time, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption caused by idling at junctions or in congested traffic. An additional option is the 6-speed sports automatic transmission which enables even shorter shift times and could be used in manual mode using shift paddles at the steering-wheel.
Predicated on navigation information, the proper drive position is picked to fit the certain scenario on your way, e.g. directly ahead of junctions or on corners. This prevents unnecessary up-shifts between two bends in swift succession, for example.
The MINIMALISM technologies which comes as standard includes not just the automatic engine start/stop function and extensive means to optimize weight and aerodynamic drag in the brand new MINI but also a shift point display function for cars with stick shift, brake energy recuperation and needs oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump as well as other ancillary units. The electromechanical power steering is equally as energy efficiency as the map-controlled oil pumps in all engines. An optimised preheating procedure lowers the energy required to start the diesel engine by around 50 percent.
Depending on the product form, a significant optimization of aerodynamic qualities is reached by such measures as active cooling air flaps, substantial underbody trimming and air ducting components in the upper section of the C columns. With a drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.28 (MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper D), the brand new MINI is the segment leader when it comes to aerodynamics, also.
MINI Driving Modes: sporty flair and efficiency and turn of the switch.
The brand new MINI Driving Modes option provides a fantastic basis for fuel-efficient motoring. A rotary switch at the base of the gear or selector lever is used to activate either the regular MID mode, the SPORT or the GREEN mode. The choice is between a set-up which will be possibly really sporty, comfy and well-balanced otherwise intended for fuel efficiency.
In GREEN mode - supporting a relaxed and more fuelefficient driving style - the energy used by electrically-powered comfort functions for example ac and exterior mirror heating is reduced. In cars fitted with automatic transmission it's also possible to use the perform. The drivetrain is decoupled at rates of between 50 and 160 km/h as soon as the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. The brand new MINI then rolls at idling engine-speed at a minimum rate of minimum fuel consumption.
Optimised suspension technology: less fat, more gokart feeling.
The refinement of suspension engineering within the new MINI keeps to the well-recognized design principle of the single joint spring strut axle at front along with a multi-link rear axle that is unique withwithin the competitive environment, in addition to featuring extensive optimisation of all components with regard to material choice and geometry. All enhancements are targeted at intensifying the experience of the agile MINI handling qualities, commonly known as the go-kart experience. The set up of the wheel suspension, body mounting, vehicle suspension, damping, steering and brakes takes account of the higher degree of engine power and the conventional MINI concept consisting of front-wheel drive, transversely mounted engine in the front, low centre of gravity, short overhangs, wide path and stiff, weightoptimised body structure.
Increase component rigidity and in order to lessen weight, the new front axle is fitted with axle supports as well as aluminium swivel bearings and wishbones made of high-strength steel. The front axle kinematics supports the agile turn - in reply and precise steering sensation of the brand-new MINI. The share of highstrength steel used within the rear axle has also been increased. Tube-shaped stabilisers at the front and rear axle similarly lead to weight reduction. There's likewise an innovative axle bearing which benefits both ride comfort and agility.
Premiere for Dynamic Damper Control within the brand new MINI.
The newly configured suspension and damping systems are reduced in fat. The dampers are decoupled in the front and rear-axle through triple-trail support bearings. Another new addition to the MINI equipment software is Dynamic Damper Control. Two characteristic lines are obtainable for damper set up, enabling activation of whether more ease-oriented response or possibly a direct, sporty response to highway bumps, depending on the given situation. The compression and recoil phase are adjusted by means of electrical control of the EDC valves.
The electro-mechanical power-steering has also been subjected to extensive additional development. Socalled torque steer settlement prevents selfsteering tendencies due to differing amounts of torque in the drive wheels. Steering precision has also been optimised for unanticipated avoidance swerves when taking bends in really sporty design. Standard features also contain the speedrelated steering assistance system Servotronic.
As well as the antilock system ABS, electronic brake force distribution EBD, Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and the brake assistant, the driving stability control system DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) in the new MINI also contains a drive off assistant, a brake dry perform, Fading Brake Support and DTC mode (Dynamic Traction Control), which permits controlled skid in the drive wheels so as to ease driving off on loose sand or deep snow. This technique, called Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC), thus promotes the auto's forward momentum without negatively influencing selfsteering response. The new MINI Cooper S also features the Operation Control system, which counteracts any propensity to understeer prior to reaching the threshold level in order to support an agile however neutral driving response on bends.
The 15-inch forged light-alloy wheels of the new MINI Cooper and the new MINI Cooper D favourable aerodynamic properties together with have a particularly low weight. The new MINI Cooper S is fitted with 16inch light alloy wheels as standard. Other light-alloy wheels up to a size of 18-inches are offered within the program of choices and accessories.
Less weight, more security and greater agility because of sensible lightweight building.
Further development within the body region was concentrated on optimising arrangement, which impacts favorably on the properties along with the crash response of the recent MINI. Intelligent lightweight construction means that weight decrease in the brand new MINI is joined with the increase in rigidity, therefore encouraging both agility and occupant safety. Despite its own extensive selection of fittings, almost all versions of the recent MINI are lighter than their respective predecessor versions. Additionally they fat less than their challengers within the section.
Highly resilient bearing constructions, deformation zones in ideal layout and an exceptionally secure passenger cell supply a great foundation for ensuring maximum occupant safety and maintaining impact energy away from passengers. The security concept of the recent MINI is aimed at achieving optimum scores on each of the related crash tests global.
Comprehensive security technologies including safety.
The normal security fittings of the recent MINI consist of curtain airbags along with front and side airbags for the front and back seats.
Additionally, there are impact absorbers, exactly identified deformation elements and a somewhat effective bonnet, which are elements that minimise the danger of harm to pedestrians. This significantly lessens the danger of harm and creates added deformation space when affecting against very hard portions of the motor.
Innovative driver support systems raise security and convenience.
Further signs of the technological advancement ushered in with the new edition of the MINI will be seen within the application of driver support systems - for the very first time in a version of the British manufacturer. New features are the MINI HeadUp-Display which reveals information applicable to the driver on an extendible computer screen within the top segment of the dash between the windshield and controls. The MINI HeadUp Show encourages focus on the street by showing information directly within the driver's line of sight. It may eventually be read immediately and conveniently without averting one's eyes in the street. The data that may be shown within the MINI HeadUp Display contains rate in figures, navigation instructions within the kind of arrow images and junction sketches, visible indicators for collision warning, display symbols created by Speed Limit Information with No Passing Data, Test Control messages and entertainment plan details for example radio stations and track titles. The images to the display are plainly visible in all lighting conditions.
This contains a camerabased cruise control and distance control function which automatically keeps a distance in the car ahead, along with the pedestrian warning system and collision with first brake function. Along with this, an automatic brake manoeuvre is activated in the event of an impending collision with a pedestrian or whether there's a danger of the back-on collision in city traffic. Conditioned upon the scenario, this could possibly avoid an effect happening completely or else significantly decrease the intensity of the injury. The driver can be provided an unmistakable prompt to intercede, because the deceleration is activated.
Parking assistant and a rear view camera will also be available for the brand new MINI. The video pictures furnished from the rear view camera beneath the tailgate handle as an aid reverse parking and when manoeuvring are shown in the onboard computer within the essential device. Meanwhile the parking assistant facilitates choice and application of parking areas parallel to the street. Suitable parking spaces are automatically detected by the system in the wayside. The parking assistant manages each of the required steering actions with respect to the driver, because the vehicle then manoeuvres to the space. All the motorist must do is so that you can go safely control the brake pedal, accelerator and equipment selection and conveniently to the parking place.
Highend attributes for performance, comfort and personal design.
For customization of the interior and exterior in hallmark brand fashion, choices also have a rear spoiler in John Cooper Works layout along with various cosmetic trim designs for bonnet stripes, roof and exterior mirrors, seat upholsteries, interior surfaces and Color Lines.
The alternative MINI connected or MINI Connected XL is also obtainable in combination with the MINI navigation system along with all the Radio MINI Visible Increase. It provides extensive integration of smart phones in the auto, enabling using net - based services in the fields of communicating, infotainment and driver experience. All these are supplied via applications whose functional diversity has been constantly expanded. In future, both MINI Connected App along with the alleged MINI Connected prepared Apps furnished by companies will probably be available not merely for the Iphone but also for smart phones utilizing the os Android.
Using the color show within the essential device, all functions could be controlled more easily - and in common MINI design, intuitively and securely than before.
For the very first time, the fresh MINI could be fitted with a SIM card that's permanently installed in the auto. This really is used to create phone connections needed for using the discretionary functions Crisis Contact and MINI Teleservices. Emergency Call with automatic detection of injury severity and vehicle location immediately contacts a call center in case of a crash so as to pioneer powerful and quick aid. At the same time, advice is transmitted that comprises the location of the automobile to the nearest metre, car type and color in addition to data gathered by detectors within the auto, for example how many people are seated in the vehicle and which air bags were induced. An emergency call may also be tripped by hand to be able to get assist for other motorists.
The SIM card within the auto allows usage of MINI Teleservices, also. The function may also be utilized to organize a service appointment.
2014 Mini Cooper & Cooper S testing on the Nürburgring Nordschleife
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