Yesterday we gave you the overall picture of the next generation MINI's
engine range. Today we'll get down to the details… (From BMW
Press)
Successful Cooperation.
Joining forces in the joint venture, the BMW Group and PSA Peugeot
Citroen have developed a new family of small petrol engines. These power
units featuring the most advanced engine technologies are intended for
use in Peugeot and Citroen models as well as future versions of MINI
cars.The new engine family is a significant step for both partners in
maintaining the self-commitment assumed by European car makers within
the ACEA Association of Car Manufacturers, promising to reduce fleet
consumption and, as a result, CO2 emissions to 140 g/km by the year
2008.For the first time the project is able to elegantly solve the
conflict of interests between demanding engine technologies, on the one
hand, and the usual cost pressure in the small and compact car segment,
on the other.
Advantageous for both sides.
Both partners have contributed their know-how in technology and their
experience in large-volume production to the project, and now both
parties benefit in the same way. In other words, this is a win-win
situation to which each partner has contributed all its know-how and
expertise. The project proves that fuel-efficient power units with
innovative engine technology may also be built economically in the lower
car segments.Each manufacturer has contributed special competences and skills both
in the area of engine development and in using the world's best and most
advanced production methods.PSA Peugeot Citroen will be building the new engines at its plant in
Douvrin, France. Planned capacity in production is up to 2,500 units a
day.
Curtains Open for a New Engine Family.
Developing the concept for the new engine family, the project team
has opted for two technology variants. The derivatives of these two very
different variants will define a new standard in their class in
technological terms and in terms of their dynamism, economy, and long
running life.The engines are characterised by the exchange of know-how between engine
development specialists on both sides, since, in developing and
implementing the engine concept, the same attention was given to both
BMW's principle of efficient dynamics and the PSA Peugeot Citroen
principle of minimum fuel consumption.These new engines will offer exceptional power and a muscular torque
curve in their class throughout a very wide useful speed range, at the
same time reducing both fuel consumption and weight to a minimum.The engines developed in this joint venture incorporate numerous
features carried over from BMW's trendsetting power units, for example
from the latestgeneration of straight-six petrol engines.
Some examples:
- Fully variable valve drive
- Flow-controlled oil pump
- Single-belt drive of all
ancillary units- Individual ignition coils
- Composite
camshafts- Weight-optimised roller-type drag arms
- Cylinder head produced by lost-foam casting
The following new concepts and solutions have also been implemented
in the project:
- Direct gasoline injection for extra power and
performance- Twin-scroll exhaust gas turbocharger
- On-demand water pump
- Poly-V-belt with built-in tensioner
- Lightweight concept (including an aluminium crankcase,
intake manifold and cylinder head cover made of a special plastic
material)Optimised fuel economy plus remarkable power.
The first two products in this joint venture will feature a 1.6-litre
petrol engine with fully variable valve drive, maximum output of 85
kW/115 bhp, and maximum torque of 160 Nm/118 lb-ft.One of the most significant objectives in developing this
normal-aspiration power unit was to achieve a muscular torque curve at
the highest possible level combined with best-in-class fuel economy and
emission management on low weight.High-performance turbocharged power unit with direct fuel injection.
Direct petrol injection in this engine serves in particular to
combine high specific output with exemplary fuel economy. Further
advantages are a high standard of refinement and outstanding emission
management.The compact four-cylinder will be featured both in sports-oriented
models as well as PSA Peugeot Citroen cars in the lower segments of the
market, where it will be replacing large-volume normal-aspiration power
units. The reason for this strategy is that small, turbocharged engines
with a high level of power density offer a significant advantage in fuel
economy over normal-aspiration engines of larger capacity.These two engines are the first members in a complete family of power
units which will ultimately range in output from 55 kW/75 bhp all the
way to 125 kW/170 bhp.
A New Standard Ensured by Successful Implementation of Innovative
Solutions.From the start, the specifications defined for the project made clear
demands of the new engine family and the standards it was to meet:Without making any concessions in terms of power, performance, and
motoring refinement, the engines have moved up the benchmark once again
inter alia in terms of specific fuel consumption, their torque curve,
anti-friction smoothness, and in terms of the overall engine package,
thus setting new standards in every respect.This success is attributable in part to numerous innovations and
solutions adding up to make the new engine family a new benchmark in its
class.
- Fully variable valve drive.
Without requiring a throttle butterfly, fully variable valve drive
controls engine output by infinite adjustment of valve stroke and intake
valve opening times. This loss-free load management reduces fuel
consumption, cuts back emissions, and ensures better engine response
with an enhanced standard of motoring refinement.- Twin-scroll turbocharger.
On the twin-scroll turbocharger the ducts of each set of two
cylinders are separated from one another in the exhaust gas manifold and
the turbocharger. This serves to build up a charge effect from just
about 1,400 rpm, with torque being generated just as quickly as on a
compressor engine.- Direct gasoline injection.
High-pressure gasoline injection (120 bar), together with advanced
turbocharger technology, is the main reason of the high level of
specific output, low fuel consumption and the exemplary emission
management ensured by the turbocharged engine.- Fully controlled oil pump.
On-demand oil supply delivers only as much oil as is actually
required. Depending on operating conditions, the volume flow-controlled
oil pump requires up to 1.25 kW less drive energy and reduces fuel
consumption by up to 1 per cent.- On-demand water pump.
Driven by a friction gear, the water pump is not activated until the
engine has reached its normal operating temperature, thus enabling the
engine to warm up more quickly. This serves both to reduce fuel
consumption and improve emissions at the same time.- Aluminium crankcase in bedplate design.
Offering best-in-class stiffness, excellent noise management, and
the integration of numerous functions and ancillary units, the
aluminium crankcase is quite unique in every respect.Optimum friction management on both the crankdrive and valve drive.
Optimum configuration of the bearings and the conversion of all
mechanical transmission elements in the valve drive to roll friction
serves to minimise friction losses to the lowest level in this engine
category.Optimum package dimensions.
Integration of numerous functions and ancillary units into the
cylinder head and crankcase avoids the use of conventional add-on
systems, improves the engine's noise management, and reduces both weight
and dimensions. Single-belt drive of engine components and modules also
makes a significant contribution to the compact design and dimensions of
the engine.
The Engine Block: Setting the Foundation for Two Very Different
Variants in Technology.A strong foundation is obviously the basic prerequisite for a
successful engine concept. Hence, the engine block is conceived and
designed to meet the requirements of both technology variants in every
respect and without the slightest concession.For production reasons, the geometrical dimensions of the new engine
family are to a large extent identical in all derivatives of the engine.
Inter alia, this includes the distance between cylinders of 84 mm
(3.31″), the bore of 77 mm (3.03″), and the height of the crankcase.
The two 1.6-litre power units also share the same stroke of 85.5 mm
(3.36″) and a capacity of 1,598 cc.Innovative crankcase with outstanding qualities.
The two-piece bedplate construction of the aluminium crankcase made
up of the cylinder block and the bearing housing is an elaborate
achievement in technology carried over from motorsport. Together with
its reinforcement ribs, this strong structure gives the engine an
extremely high level of stiffness and sets new standards in this class
of motoring.This special structure is also the reason for the engine's excellent
acoustics and noise control quite comparable to the features of a much
heavier grey-cast iron engine block and indeed marking the very best
among engines with an aluminium block. The aluminium bedplate housing
the crankshaft is fitted to and bolted on the cylinder block. In the
turbocharged engine the bedplate incorporates sintered steel inserts for
the crankshaft bearing taking the higher forces acting on the engine
into account. A further sign of distinction is that the cast-in
grey-cast iron liners end flush at the top with the cylinder head gasket
(open liner design).The crankcase has open cross-sections at the top reducing any pump
losses caused by the movement of the crankdrive.
Integrated functions for enhanced quality.
The chain housing integrated in the engine block offers the advantage
of not requiring any additional seals, with the complete chain drive
entering the assembly process as a partly pre-assembled module.The mounts cast into the engine block for ancillaries such as the
alternator and a/c compressor also reduce the complexity of the entire
unit, at the same time cutting back weight and shortening the period
required for assembly. And last but certainly not least, this kind of
integration improves sound management and provides even stiffer, firmer
fastening points for the ancillary units.Low-friction crankdrive reducing fuel consumption. Since, given the
right configuration, the combination of a four-cylinder power unit and
front-wheel drive will not cause any noise problems, the project team
has chosen a design concept without balance shafts, which would only
have meant unnecessary weight.In the development process the reduction of frictional forces to a level
never seen before in this class was given very high priority for reasons
of fuel economy alone. With the crankshaft contributing significantly to
frictional forces, the decision was taken to use relatively small
bearing journals measuring just 45 mm or 1.77″ in diameter. To minimise
oil consumption and, as a result, frictional losses, the bearing shells
on all engines have been split up into five categories in order to limit
bearing play in the main crankshaft bearing.A further highlight of the engine's lightweight concept is the
optimisation of crankshaft weight. As a result, crankshaft stiffness
decreases from rear to front, which also offers benefits in terms of
vibration management.The forged crankshaft on the turbocharged engine comes additionally
with four smaller balance weights over and above the four
counterweights.Weight-optimised trapezoidal connecting rods for even greater running
smoothness. Seen from the side, the upper conrod opening in the
trapezoidal connecting rods is trapezoidal in shape. The connecting rod
opening is thus tapered at the top in the interest of lower weight at
this decisive point. Given a mean operating speed of 18.5 m/sec, that is
the speed at which the connecting rods move up and down, every gram of
oscillating masses saved in this way serves to improve engine vibration.The trapezoidal connecting rods are made in cracked technology,
meaning that the lower connecting rod opening is broken at a
predetermined point in the machining process.The pistons on the turbocharged direct-injection power unit come with
four valve pockets and the combustion chamber trough right in the middle
in order to stratify the cylinder charge. And to reduce thermal loads,
the pistons are cooled by splash oil. On the normal-aspiration power
unit the pistons feature valve pockets without any further modifications
or improvements.On-demand oil supply without any loss of oil.
Equipped with a volume flow-controlled oil pump, the new power units
rank unique in their class also in terms of their oil supply.Operating as a function of oil pressure, the external gear pump
driven by a chain delivers precisely the amount of oil required under
all operating conditions. In other words, there is no need for a bypass
feeding back excess oil or extra volume not needed. Benefitting from
this optimised on-demand management without any unnecessary energy or
forces, the volume flow-controlled oil pump consumes up to 160 W less
drive energy than a conventional pump, reducing fuel consumption in the
European driving cycle by approximately 1 per cent. And under normal
driving conditions with the car in the hands of a customer, the
reduction in fuel consumption is far greater, with a power saving of
1.25 kW or 1.7 bhp at 6,000 rpm.Looking at the oil filter, the development engineers have opted in
favour of a solution highly beneficial to the environment. As a result,
the oil filter is not a metal cartridge difficult to recycle as special
waste, but rather a paper filter insert easy to dispose of from its
usual position in an easily accessible aluminium case with a plastic
cover on top.With turbocharged engines being subject to significant thermal loads
and forces, an oil/water heat exchanger integrated in the oil filter
housing keeps the engine oil temperature at a safe level even when
running under full load. A further point is that the heat exchanger, by
heating up the coolant more quickly, shortens the warming-up period and
reduces both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions in the process.The engines are filled initially with 4.2 litres of light running
oil, with 3.7 litres being required when changing oil.The cylinder head – the main sign of distinction.
The two engine variants differ primarily through the concept of the
cylinder head and the fuel supply system. This explains why they share
only a few common features in this area, to be specific the two
camshafts, four valves per cylinder with a shaft diameter of 5 mm or
0.20″, one valve spring on each engine and the spark plug fitted
vertically in position.The large valve angle allows optimum design of the combustion
chambers combined with low overall engine height. And converting all
mechanical transmission elements to anti-friction rollers (roller-type
drag arms), the engineers have significantly reduced friction forces.Integration of numerous functions and components such as the oil
dipstick, the vacuum pump, the high-pressure pump, thermostat housing
and intake silencer serves additionally to meet the great demands made
of the engine package.
Two engine variants cast in different processes.
Two different casting processes are used in production of the
cylinder head: While the cylinder head on the direct-injection power
unit is manufactured in a low-pressure die-casting process, the
normal-aspiration engine is made in the innovative lost-foam casting
process developed for the first time to production level in a
six-cylinder power unit in the light-alloy foundry at BMW's Landshut
Plant.Since the cylinder heads are made by PSA Peugeot Citroen, the BMW
Group has supported PSA Peugeot Citroen in introducing this process for
large-volume production by providing appropriate know-how in production
technology. Both processes are particularly well-suited for perfectly
rendering the elaborate internal contours together with their hollow
cavities for the air ducts as well as the oil and coolant circuits.Contrary to conventional casting technologies, lost-foam casting is a
positive process helping to further reduce the weight of the engine. In
this case, an identical cylinder head model made of polystyrene is
covered by a ceramic layer, shaken into a bed of sand and completely
surrounded by casting sand with the exception of one duct cast into the
cylinder head. The fluid aluminium then runs into the casting duct
during the automated casting process, completely replacing the
polystyrene model and taking on the shape of the cylinder head itself.Given the very high precision of this casting process, even filigree
features such as oil ducts, reflow pipes and blow-by channels can be
properly integrated within the overall module. This, in turn, helps to
avoid numerous production processes formerly required in the machining
phase.Ideal package dimensions thanks to single-belt drive.
For package reasons one of the objectives in the development process
was to make the engine as short and compact as possible. Hence, both the
alternator and the a/c compressor are driven by only one poly-V-belt
tightened by means of a single-arm torsion-spring tensioner. With the
coolant pump being driven via a friction gearing, there is no need for a
second belt level, which makes the engine one of the shortest
four-cylinders in its class.Intelligent thermal management with an on-demand water pump.
On-demand management of the coolant volume delivered is one of the
numerous measures taken to reduce fuel consumption. A friction gear
mounted on a bearing arm is positioned between the water pump gear and
the pulley on the crankshaft. An electrically operated eccentric gear
serves to change the position of the gear wheel, and the water pump may
be switched off when starting the engine cold in order to warm up the
engine more quickly.To save drive power and expedite the warming-up process, coolant is
not circulated until the engine has reached its normal operating
temperature. Then, when it has reached the appropriate temperature, the
engine is held steady at that point by a thermostat masterminded by the
engine's electronic “brain”, ensuring the most fuel-efficient coolant
temperature at each respective operating point.Service-friendly range of engines.
Ease of service and an appropriate maintenance concept were essential
features in determining the engines' specifications. Depending on
running conditions and the driver's style of motoring, oil service
intervals will be approximately 30,000 km or 20,000 miles. The spark
plugs and air filter, in turn, only have to be exchanged approximately
every 60,000 km or 40,000 miles. The timing chain driving the camshafts
is not only very precise and reliable, but also remains maintenance-free
throughout the full running life of the engine. And automatic hydraulic
valve play compensation serves last but not least to rule out any
service or maintenance on the valve drive.
Naturally Aspirated Power Unit with Fully Variable Valve Drive:
Best-in-Class in Every Respect.With its compression ratio of 11:1, the naturally aspirated power
unit develops maximum output of 85 kW/115 bhp at 5,700 rpm and revs up
to a maximum speed of 6,500 rpm. Engine displacement of this
four-cylinder is 1.6 litres, with torque reaching 140 Nm or 103 lb-ft at
just 2,000 rpm and peaking at 160 Nm/118 lb-ft at 4,250 rpm. The wide
useful engine speed range provided in this way offers an optimum
combination of driving pleasure and fuel economy from this compact power
unit.Fully variable valve management as well as a wide range of features
extending from the fully controlled oil and water pumps all the way to
the optimisation of friction losses make this normal-aspiration power
unit one of the most efficient engines throughout its entire segment,
even including engines with direct gasoline injection.Fully variable valve drive for enhanced fuel economy and even more
dynamic performance.Fully variable valve management applies the principle of
throttle-free load control, masterminding engine power through the
infinite adjustment of valve lift and the intake valve opening times.
This technology based on the BMW Group's VALVETRONIC concept allows
truly outstanding driving dynamics and performance on low fuel
consumption.In a conventional internal combustion engine output is controlled by
means of the throttle butterfly. The engine is required to draw in fresh
air particularly at part load against the resistance of the butterfly
closed entirely or in part, which means a certain loss of power and
efficiency as well as unnecessary fuel consumption.The innovative valve management system used in this case controls
both valve lift as well as the valve opening period and timing without
requiring a throttle butterfly as a function of the gas pedal position.
Almost free of losses, this control concept reduces fuel consumption,
cuts back exhaust emissions, and ensures a far better engine response
with greater refinement.How this innovative valve management works.
This revolutionary engine technology is based on BMW's variable
camshaft adjustment: Turning the two camshafts relative to one another,
valve opening times can be infinitely adjusted for their beginning and
end, but engine output can only be controlled within certain limits.
Such individual, highly efficient control is now allowed by variable
valve lift for infinite adjustment of both the opening cross-section and
the intake valve opening periods.In this case the camshaft no longer acts directly on the follower
lever operating the valve, but rather on an intermediate lever placed in
the middle of a roller forming the surface contour followed by the cam.
The lower end of the lever rests on the roller running on the follower
lever, while in the middle the lever rests on an eccentric shaft via a
second roller.When turning, the camshaft now moves the intermediate lever to and
fro. Exactly when and where the lever exerts its effect is determined by
the swivel point on the pivot lever itself. Driven by an electric motor,
the eccentric shaft modifies this rotating point, thus varying valve
lift infinitely from 0.2-9.5 millimetres (0.008-0.374″) as a function
of the rise or “hump” on the intake cam.The electric motor fitted directly on the cylinder head and adjusting
the eccentric shaft by means of a worm gearing moves the lever in just
300 milliseconds from minimum to maximum lift. During the same period
the intake camshaft is turned by up to 70, the outlet camshaft by up to
60. To achieve this enormous adjustment speed, valve management is
controlled by an extremely fast, high-performance 32-bit engine
management computer directly networked to the engine control unit.Potential reduction of fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent.
Depending on the route taken and traffic conditions, variable valve
drive may reduce average fuel consumption by up to 20 per cent, with a
saving in the EU test cycle of approximately 9 per cent. This innovative
technology now making its debut in the small and compact car segment
with this new naturally aspirated engine operates independently of fuel
quality and the oil grade and does not require sulphur-free fuel,
meaning that it is fully suited for all markets worldwide. Both the BMW
Group and PSA Peugeot Citroen nevertheless advocate the ongoing
improvement of fuel quality, in particular the de-sulphurisation of
fuel.Mechanical production technology of the highest standard.
This highly advanced valve management system demands the utmost in
terms of production technology. The contours of the intermediate lever
determining valve lift, for example, are ground down to an accuracy of
8/1,000ths of a millimetre. The camshafts on both engines are composite
structures, meaning that cam rings made of high-strength stainless steel
are shrunk on to a cast shaft and subsequently machined. In the final
fine-polishing process the cams are then 1 machined to an accuracy of 1
micron (?1,000 mm). For reasons of weight the eccentric shaft is also
made in this process for the first time, likewise with tolerance levels
in the micron range.Optimised combustion process for exemplary emission management.
An electric pump delivers fuel into the plastic injection rail
housing the four injection valves. The optimum injection volume is
calculated by the engine control unit taking numerous parameters into
account, fuel being injected into the intake duct at a pressure of
approximately 5 bar.Individual coils on each spark plug provide exactly the right
ignition voltage again controlled individually by the electronic
management system. An anti-knocking sensor monitors the combustion
process within the combustion chambers, retarding the ignition angle
where necessary. Benefitting from this highly efficient knock control,
the engine is able to run on fuel grades between 91 and 98 octane.The emission management system incorporating a ceramic catalyst and
two oxygen sensors is connected directly to the exhaust manifold.Ancillaries: everything in place.
While the engine with fully variable valve drive still has a throttle
butterfly, its only purpose is to provide a failsafe and diagnostic
function. Under normal running conditions, therefore, the butterfly is
always open. An additional vacuum pump at the rear end of the outlet
camshaft generates the underpressure required for the brake servo.For reasons of safety the ancillaries and peripheral components in
all areas exposed to impact energy in a collision are designed to
absorb and destroy energy in a well-defined process in the event of an
impact, before penetrating the interior of the car under any such
forces.The High-Performance Power Unit: A Turbocharged Engine with Direct
Fuel Injection.
The turbocharged fuel injection power unit combines the torque curve
of a diesel with the benefits of a modern reciprocating-piston engine.
Maximum torque of 240 Nm or 177 lb-ft comes at just 1,400 rpm, remaining
virtually unchanged all the way to 4,000 rpm. This ensures significant
thrust and muscle from low engine speeds, powerful acceleration, a
perfect response, and maximum driving pleasure. Together with its
maximum output of 105 kW/143 bhp at 5,500 rpm, this engine guarantees
sporting performance wherever you go.Cylinder head with conventional valve drive.
Contrary to the normal-aspiration engine, the cylinder head on the
turbocharged four-cylinder with conventional valve drive features two
overhead, composite camshafts, friction-optimised roller-type follower
levers, and hydraulic lash adjusters. Valve drive has also been
optimised for weight, reflecting the engine's fast-revving performance.
Precisely this is why the valve shafts measure only 5 mm or 0.20″ in
diameter, with the hollow shaft outlet valves being filled with sodium.
The closing function is ensured by a valve spring building up the
pressure required.Fully variable adjustment of the intake camshaft guarantees maximum
power and torque on very good fuel economy and emission management.Direct gasoline injection for even more power.
Mounted at the rear end of the intake camshaft, the mechanically
driven two-piston high-pressure pump delivers fuel to the injection
valves via a stainless-steel distributor rail. These high-pressure
valves inject fuel directly into the combustion chambers from the side
at a pressure of up to 120 bar, in the process maintaining a homogeneous
distribution of the fuel/air mixture in the combustion chambers.At a compression ratio of 10.5:1, the turbocharged engine is
compressed to a relatively high level for an internal combustion engine
of this type. Precisely this is why the combustion process is monitored
also in this case by anti-knock control correcting the ignition angles
and charge pressure whenever required.Elaborate twin-scroll turbocharger technology avoiding the usual
turbo “lag”.For the first time in this class, the direct injection
engine in the new family comes with a twin-scroll turbocharger.
Featuring this technology, the ducts of each two cylinders in the
exhaust manifolds and turbochargers are different from one another in
their design. Reducing exhaust gas counterpressure at low engine speeds,
twin-scroll charger technology capitalises on the dynamic effect of the
pulsing gas columns in the exhaust manifolds. The result is additional
power and thrust on even less fuel, enabling the turbocharger to boost
engine output from an earlier point. This effect is clearly noticeable,
with the charger building up extra power from roughly 1,400 rpm, almost
completely avoiding the “turbo lag” often criticised on turbocharged
engines, and generating torque almost as fast as in a compressor engine.The flow of exhaust gas accelerates the turbine wheel to a speed of
up to 220,000 rpm. And at the same time the compressor running on the
same shaft compresses the fresh air fed into the system. A wastegate
complete with a check valve monitors the maximum turbocharger pressure
of 0.8 bar. In addition, overpressure in the system is controlled by a
dump valve activated when coasting with the intake manifold closed. To
increase the charge level, the pre-compressed fresh air is cooled down
in an intercooler before flowing into the combustion chamber. The
intercooler itself is fitted in the car at a predetermined point meeting
all the requirements of this particular configuration.Maximum exhaust gas temperature is monitored by the electronic engine
“brain” and is limited to 950 C (1,742 F). To prevent excessive
build-up of heat in the oil- and water-cooled turbocharger after the
engine has been stopped, an additional electrical water pump starts
automatically as soon as the car comes to a standstill, dissipating any
excess thermal energy from the system
You can download this press release as PDF (including power graphs and detailed engine specs) here.
<p>that engine is nice!!! i can't wait! thanks for the updates. i love this site!</p>
<p>Any news on transmissions that will be offered with these engines?</p>
<p>no news.</p>
<p>i must say, this engine does look very nice…</p>
<p>now if they can only not mess up the outside looks…</p>
<p>Looks like they intend the new engine to produce the exact same horsepower (both Cooper and Cooper S) with a little more torque while improving gas milage. A very admirable goal, but I'm sure the horsepower feaks amongst us will be disappointed.</p>
<p>If the new engine is indeed lighter and generates more torque I, for one, will be very pleased!</p>
<p>As for the turbo verses super charger debate, it looks like they are claiming similar performance due to turbo technology advancements.</p>
<p>Shoule we really expect 250-300bhp to fit under the bonnet of a MINI? Would the EU really let them sell all that petrol burning power to the masses?</p>
<p>I would tell everyone to reserve their judgement on that fact that this is a good engine, until it really comes out. Claiming it is good, based on some marketing hype is just jumping to conclusions, and has a tendency to get everyone excited. We have no idea on it's life (it hasn't been tested in real life), all that high technology mumbly-gook, market-speak could also break down a lot. It is sites like this, with the info above, that gets everyone all excited and all you have to look forward to is your expectations being smashed. Just remember, this is another European dictated design that is being pushed onto the rest of the world without any dialogue. Why is it important for us in the US to have an engine that meets EU standards. What! does the whole world revolve around the EU. If your governments are silly enough to pass laws like the Kyoto agreement, then why on earth should we be subject to them. The installation of the supercharge is just another attempt at the EU trying to placate to the Japanese aftermarket tuning scene. They are feeling pressure amongst their economies with Japanese imports that they have to do something. This whole scheme of putting a turbo in was hatched at a secret WTO meeting, in which Germany, Japan and the UK were trying to bridge differences in their trade gaps. What will be next, the JCW BOV and undercar neon lights. Pffft! Pfffft! Baby!</p>
<p>If you just took my above post seriously, you have got to relax some.</p>
<p>Actually the design looks pretty cool. But I am still leaning toward my 1.6 Chrysler, iron block, supercharged engine.</p>
<p>Interesting note though – US emissions standards are typically higher than the EU. </p>
<p>But anyway with more torque available down low in the rev range I would think this engine would suit American driving habbits better than teh current tritec 4 cylinder.</p>
<p>Wow!</p>
<p>What I like about this design is that BMW's considerable expertise in engine design is now going to be part of the MINI. What I'm nervous about is the emphasis on European oriented performance – and its not at all clear what that will mean on US roads. The use of a turbo also makes me nervous, especially the “almost completely avoiding the “turbo lag” line from above. Key word: “almost”. With a supercharger there is no “almost”, and given US roads/traffic conditions “almost” can be a real pain.</p>
<p>Does it come in Carbon Fiber too.</p>
<p>He He =]</p>
<p>Yes almost concerns me too considering how effective they were at “eliminating” torque steer.</p>
<p>However that's what test drives are for.</p>
<p>From the specs I really wouldn't worry too much about the turbo lag. Anything has to be better than my old 944turbo, which would only spool at about….say…3500RPM. </p>
<p>1400 RPM is practically “instant” and if you feel that the benefits of turbo charging are not worth the nano-second of lag then don't buy the car.</p>
<p>I for one am very interested in the mod-potential for these new motors. Does anyone know the compression ratio?</p>
<p>Pete</p>
<p>Defintely something to look forward to. However, I will not jump on a “prince” equipped R56 MINI on its very first year of production. Let the Guinea Pigs “First year customers” do the road testing and lets see if this French engine will “walk the walk” in terms of durability and reliability.</p>
<p>I still contend the current TRITEC engine is a fantastic powerplant and has proven to be nearly bulletproof. Let's hope the Prince engines will follow on that tradition of quality excellence.</p>
<p>10.5:1</p>
<p>it's in the release</p>
<p>Wow, 10.5:1 is a pretty high comp ratio for a turbo motor. Usually the CR for a turbo 4 cyl. is in the 9 range to help prevent detontation. I'll bet the direct injection is allowing for this. This should also help low rpm power. Cool!</p>
<p>Let's not be forgetting during all of this that the French have been winning WRC Rally Races for years with small displacement four cylinders. In particular, I wish I could get my hands on a rally bred Peugeot 206, or even the current 306 Rally car. Citroen as well has been a dominant player. Just because US French relations, and our past history with French cars is less than stellar doesn't mean we can discount this new engine. If that were the case, then sales of Nissan (Renault) automobiles should be WAY down rather then their position as one of the only automobile companies actually posting regular gains over the last few years…</p>
<p>Ah, it's alright. Any naysayers on this engine will be quickly quieted when they can get 75 hp out of a simple ECU modification. ;)</p>
<p>Any mention in the releases about the possibility of retrofitting the new engines to our older MINIs? Just had to ask:-)</p>
<p>will the new Prince engine be unveiled with the next-gen Mini or will this engine appear in the final year or two of the current Mini????</p>
<p>These look like engines that will be very technologically advanced. Technology usually costs money, however, and I wonder if the increased cost of making them in an EU country, plus the technology will reflect in the price of the car. When I see things like “significantly lighter,” or “significantly more power” I will perk up. With about the same power and torque in the normally aspirated and turbo versions, the performance of the Mini and Mini S should not be significantly different. If it costs more, and there is no performance boost, there will be no joy in Mudville.</p>
<p>In the announcement Gabe said “And these engines will be built in the UK and not in Brazil.”</p>
<p>But above it says “PSA Peugeot Citroen will be building the new engines at its plant in Douvrin, France.”</p>
<p>I wonder how much input BMW actually had.</p>
<p>From the production methods and component designs, I'd say BMW primarily designed this engine.</p>
<p>Check out this article on the new R6 line of engines, slated for the new BMW 3-series, among others:</p>
<p><a href="http://www.germancarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2040718.001/page/1/bmw/1.html" rel="nofollow ugc">http://www.germancarfans.com/news.cfm/newsid/2040718.001/page/1/bmw/1.html</a></p>
<p>Dr. Panke (head of the BMW Group) accounced himself that the new MINI engine will be built at the Hams plant in the United Kingdom.</p>
<p>From what I've heard the initial engines for PSA will be built in France but all MINI engines will be built in the UK giving BMW more control over quality.</p>
<p>BTW for those wondering which company is doing what within this partnership here's an excerpt from a previous press release:</p>
<p>“The BMW Group R&D department will be in charge of designing the engines, and the common project team will be based in Munich. PSA Peugeot Citroen will manage process development, engineering for production as well as procurement. The production capacity will meet the future needs of Peugeot, Citroen and MINI vehicles and could reach up to 1,000,000 units a year. The cooperation which calls for both expertise in automotive technologies and the ability to manage large-scale production, is expected to generate economies of scale and meet both partners' segment specific gasoline engine requirements.”</p>
<p>A fascinating read… Definitely has high potential if the marketing department hasn't hyped it up too much.</p>
<p>On the debate over turbo- vs. supercharger, most claimed that there is no lag. But I think there is lag, just not nearly as obvious. When I drive my MCS, I definitely notice there is a noticeable rise in torque pass a certain RPM — especially when pushed hard from stand still. It's just that the power transition is much smoother than that of a turbo, where it's like: wait, wait, wait… POW! go!</p>
<p>The torque output of the naturally aspirated engine — if the claim pans out — would be much appeciated. I also own a MC (which I also love to drive), and the only thing I am disappointed about the car is the torque — the power grows steadily as engine speed goes up, but there is a dip right between 3k-4k RPM – where I like to be when doing moderate acceleration (merging onto highways, etc.)</p>
<p>One final thought. Not to imply any political view points, I am somewhat concerned about French engine designs. My uncle used to be a mechanic in the '70s & '80s in asia — and he always complained when he looked under the hood of a French car, it's like spaghetti — a mass of disorganization and chaos. In contrast, the German engine design is always very neat and organized.</p>
<p>From a service point of view, when a design is done in a very organized fashion, it make it much easier to service and diagnose than one that is not organized. That is not to say that the French engines are not as good as German's — just may be more difficult to service.</p>
<p>Things may have changed from those eras — and since there aren't any French cars in the U.S. (Peugeot went away in the late 80s, was Citreön & Renault ever in the U.S.?), I don't really know how things are now.</p>
<p>In any case, since BMW has input into this engine — should be o.k., right? ;-)</p>
<p>Lucas – BMW designed these engines so I wouldn't be too concerned.</p>
<p>What is it with these guys that they can't bring themselves to use a standard spin-on oil filter? Argggh.</p>
<p>Looks like this is an engine designed to be cheap to build, compact, and efficient, not a performance engine. Which were about the same goals as the Pentagon engine, so the move to the new engine is probably more deriven by the need to align with the changing business relationship between Chrysler and Daimler, rather than any real problems or issues with the existing engine.</p>
<p>I'll take a wait/see and I'd strongly recommend people not buy this engine until at least a year of field experience is gained.</p>
<p>Not sure if I like the turbo over the supercharger. The variable timing, the oil pump and the water pump technology on paper look great. I do hope that MINI takes control on the manufacturer of the motor as I would want the quality to be up to their standards. I would think that with all of these advances that the HP rating would be a bit higher.</p>
<p>Remember this engine will have over a year of history in Puegeot & Citroen cars before it's ever in a MINI. I wouldn't be too concerned with the first year of MINI production.</p>
<p>The BMW partnership is a typical PSA engine partnership. They do lots of these. BMW provided a lot of the technical and engineering expertise on the engine, and PSA managed the production of the engine. This is what PSA is becoming known for. Gabe, I doubt the engine will be built in the UK for the Mini. They will all be done on the same line. No way, would they build two production lines for this engine, when the whole push from BMW is efficiency and to keep costs down. Besides, it is not very European to build two line. Doesn't make sense.</p>
<p>It seems to me that the focus is obviously on efficiency. Both in the manufacturing process as well as the engine operation. With a key focus on longevity and fuel consumption. Performance was not the driving force. Yet they did want to make sure that the engines had performance. Just based on the literature it appears that if they were in a discussion for slightly better fuel economy or slightly better performance, that the slightly better fuel economy argument won. Not to say they cannot coexist in some form. Even though from some technical perspectives, the engine has a lot of technology, it will still need to hold up in comparison to the Chrysler engine. The Chrysler engine is very reliable, bullet proof, with very, very few reported problems. This engine will have to do the same to be successful. Engineering doesn't always make a successful and reliable engine. A lot has to do with manufacturing, which BMW was not as involved in. Only time will tell. Either way, great article Gabe.</p>
<p>Will the new Prince engine be unveiled with the next-gen Mini or will this engine appear in the final year or two of the current Mini????</p>
<p>John… I don't know that answer at this point however this article may help: <a href="https://www.motoringfile.com/2004/01/04/TheMINIGetsAPrince">http://www.motoringfile.com/2004/01/04/TheMINIGetsAPrince</a> (the R50 is the current MINI and the R56 is the next generation).</p>
<p>Based on that timeframe it would appear that there may be some cross-over. However I wouldn't count on that being the final word.</p>
<p>dgszweda – like I said those words came from Dr Panke himself in November of 2003. The French plant was announced in 2002. I guess we'll soon see.</p>
<p>If the focus was primarily on efficiency, they would have gone with a smaller motor that produced the same power. Instead, they're producing a motor that performs better across the entire powerband, with what sounds like a lot of low-end (maximum torque at 1,400 rpm)… out of the same displacement. All while using less fuel (a turbo motor is inherently more efficient than a supercharged motor).</p>
<p>You performance nuts will absolutely love the turbo. Do yo guys have any idea how much easier it is to get 30-50hp out of that thing! Direct fuel injection allows for exteremly high compression ratios(relitive to other boosted engines) and also high boost pressure because direct injection produces lower cylinder temperatures</p>
<p>Exactly, isellem! Direct injection eliminates the fear of knock entirely, so as long as your mechanicals and fuel supply can support it, you can crank up the boost to levels you couldn't previously get out of an engine with a 10.5:1 compression ratio. Depending on the capacity of the fuel system, you should be able to get even more than 50 hp, with just an ECU mod to tame the wastegate and adjust fuel mapping.</p>
<p>It would be nice to see someone like Randy Webb comment on this article and the potential of performance mods for the engine. Like others have said, the use of a turbo leads me to believe that relatively easy power gains are there. On the other hand, a 32bit ECU and all the engine controls, leads me to wonder who has the technology to remap this computer? Seems like there might be some engines burnt up in the process of experimentation. Engines are getting more hi-tech everyday, and this one looks to be a step above anything I have seen yet (not that I see all that much). The addition of direct injection, on-demand oil and water pumps, and individual cylinder coils makes engine control even more complex. </p>
<p>Also, I thought I read in a previous article this week that the engine line would top out at 170 HP? Does that mean a JCW is coming at 170 HP?</p>
<p>I am very excited about this new engine. Better efficiency and thus fuel economy are encouraging. Lighter weight is another perk. All the manufacturing techniques seem to point toward a long-life engine. The only thing I would add at this point is an electric oil pump, to give oil pressure prior to engine start up. Cold and dry starting is the source of a lot of engine wear.</p>
<p>This engine does sound excellent with good torque at low RPMs. I think our current models will look better by a long shot though.</p>
<p>Eric, I think they are considering JCW to be a whole different animal (i.e., separate from what they are talking about, which is their in-house production), in that JCW is a separate shop, who will start with the 170 hp and mod it up to 200 plus.</p>
<p>Also, JCW may be added later, so at first all you get is 170 hp.</p>
<p>Jazmini,</p>
<p>Jazmini, the press release just doesn't have anything about a 170 HP engine. The turbo is making 143 HP, so where is the extra 25-30 HP coming from? Is it from the easy tweaks that aftermarket companies would do?</p>
<p>Sorry for the previous post, total oops!</p>
<p>From the bottom of page 8 of the released document:</p>
<p>“These two engines are the first members in a complete family of power units which will ultimately range in output from 55 kW/75 bhp all the way to 125 kW/170 bhp.”</p>
<p>There's some debate on how MINi will position the 115hp and 140hp engines. It would seem that the 170hp will be saved for the Cooper S however I've heard talk of something even more powerful coming from the factory itself.</p>
<p>Hmm…
It would be quiet interesting if the the engines are positioned like this:
MINI One-115hp
MINI Cooper-140 (with a potential 170hp after a JCW kit)
MINI Cooper S-200hp
Well, it would be nice if the position of the engines were like this.</p>
<p>It would be cool if Mini puts that possible 200HP+ engine with AWD.</p>
<p>Wonderful info on the new engine range. I'm very excited to have real BMW technology at work in a small 4 cylinder. BMW's current I4's (not for US sale anymore) use the Valvetronic technology and have received wonderful reviews. I would expect BMW to make the MINI's engine at Hams Hall, which is where its other I4's are made. It's a stellar engine plant. </p>
<p>Trust the flying propellers. They know what they're doing- especially when it comes to engine design and manufacture. </p>
<p>These engines will be great and I know that they'll be solid and dependable.</p>
<p>I'm hoping for a 143hp Cooper with the 170hp for the Cooper S. The MINI One will probably see the 115hp unit. Those are pretty good spreads for the three models.</p>
<p>Keep it coming Motoringfile.com!!</p>
<p>Gabe, It's not unheard of to have a few test mules with the purpose of finding where the limits are and where things break. i.e. what's the mean time between failures. Hard to test within the target specifications. Often you have to push much further just to be on the safe side. Wouldn't surprise me if they had a few tuned significantly over 200hp, hoping to simulate a few decades of engine wear and abuse in mere months.</p>
<p>What excites me is seeing the torque curve of the 143 hp model surpass the JCW from 1400 to about 3500 very usable RPMs and then trying to imagine numbers for the equivalent MCS (assuming it's 170 hp), and then extrapolating further to the JCW. Just how much torque could it supply? but then I also noticed that the curve (or line) is very artificially flat from 1400 to 3600. Are they protecting something from breaking? Or de-tuning it to leave room for the MCS and JCW versions?</p>
<p>Also, any ideas on how much weight savings might be in the cards here?</p>
<p>After reading the press release and all the comments, seems like there is a general consensus [me too] of disappointment with the lack of a higher output model. Power corrupts, indeed !! However, with the new motor still a couple years out, why would Mini want to take the spotlight totally off the current production by announcing a new motor that would make the old one seem like chopped liver? Those types of press releases cause autos to collect dust on the dealer lots. The new motor may indeed be more powerful.
With luck, the new motor will have a few more ponies, the GVW will decrease by a few pounds [a hundred pounds, or more, would be nice], and the net result will be a better power to weight ratio with decreased fuel consumption. Reliability and longevity? Time will tell.
I just hope the new Mini doesn't get too over-engineered — like in the case of BMW's Z4, that has the engine-bay to cabin interconnect tube [basically a flute] to 'leak' intake/engine sounds into the cabin. Warning: cynicism approaching — I guess you could take this a step further, to save weight/money, and just play .wav or MP3 files [over the sound system] of intake drone, valve clatter, and exhaust. Let's hope that doesn't happen…
B^)</p>
<p>The MINI already has one of those interconnect tubes… look behind your intake box. A tube, conveniently placed to leak sound out of the cowl vent. ;)</p>
<p>Hmmm direct injection – did I miss something? The pic of the head doesn't show an additional “hole” for the fuel injector. Or does it share some kind of opening with the spark plug – like a pre-combustion chamber in other motors?</p>
<p>Yes :-)</p>
<p>Direct injection appears to be only for the turbo.</p>
<p>Page 18.
… fuel being injected into the intake duct at a pressure of approximately 5 bar. </p>
<p>Page 19
Direct gasoline injection for even more power.</p>
<p>oooh baby. Torque is 177@1400-4000….Lotza new advanced tech…. Dems good numbers dudes/dudettes.I cant wait for the next MCS.Christmas in July.Slurp(sorry, please excuse the drool on your monitor.) </p>
<p>Gabe,</p>
<p>Since there is no mention of a Inter Cooler on the Turbo engines, what do you think the upgrade path from JCW might look like?</p>
<p>I like some very pointed features, i.e., roller cam, timing chain not belts. The downside is that turbo’s and/or superchargers are a “poor man 6 cylinder”. If you need the six then go for it and stop “turboing”. I had a Saab years ago and althought hte turbo was good and the waste gate opened at 4800 rpm it still had an oil leak in the turbo eventually. Also turbos just put more pressure on the cylinder heads.With new ceramic heads I hope the don’t blow gaskets. I also am not too keen on the french building unless BMW is in there “full bore”. I would take a wait and see attitude for the moment. For those Chrysler inthusiasts, they have had more than there share of engine problems over the years and for years.
Last but not least remember, efficiency is another word for cost cutting.Remember the original idea of aluminum heads and blocks came from weight loss but if you overheat, you can’t cut aluminum heads over 10 thousandths but iron can go 50 plus. For the most part you have to toss the aluminum heads, that’s why the iron liners but these are just pathch jobs in the name of efficiency, keep it in mind. </p>
<p>Michael,</p>
<p>there is a mention of an intercooler
” To increase the charge level, the pre-compressed fresh air is cooled down in an intercooler before flowing into the combustion chamber. The intercooler itself is fitted in the car at a predetermined point meeting all the requirements of this particular configuration.”</p>
<p>modding potential will be much higher than that of a supercharged engine. esp. with direct injection…i cant wait to have a mini with a FMIC :)</p>
<p>So what are they going to call it?
The MINI Cooper T. Just like the rest of the manufacturers. I think the new motor will be nice but I think they need to look at heritage also. I thought the MINI was supposed to “break the cycle.” So much for that idea. :(</p>
<p>The “S” in Cooper S doesn’t stand for supercharged.</p>
<p>what does it stand for??
Yes even though you are correct, I still think it is wrong to change a thing that is very important to the heritage of the MINI. I’m just glad I got mine before BMW had a chance to screw it up.</p>
<p>I don’t mean to be harsh I guess I will just miss the whine of the supercharger. I agree with most of you in saying I believe the new engine will substanualy improve the quality if the motoring experience, I just don’t see why they had to get rid of the supercharger. I am holding back all further judgement until I see the car myself.</p>
<p>Have a great weekend.</p>
<p>Has there been any new info. on how the model-to-engine drop will shake out?</p>
<p>Will the S be getting the new 143 hp unit? Or is that for the Cooper? The 115 to the One or to the Cooper? Any word on this???</p>
<p>I wonder if I can put one of those new engines on my 2002 mini cooper. It will be cool to have a turbo under there or even a super charger. Can it be done? Putting a cooper S motor on the cooper?</p>
<p>What’s the world coming to a MINI with a French engine?
That’s a slap in the face to everything that was once British. I am toughly disgusted with BMW for allowing even a concept of this car to be made. Turbo or not the idea of using a Citroen/Peugeot engine is yet another slap in the face to the car that was to be designed after classic mini. What’s next, French issue headlamps!!!! (Still upset about the Monte Carlo rally upset in 1966.) This is truly a sad day for mini owners.</p>
<p>You should do a bit more research before posting such strong worded comments. BMW designed the engine in Germany and it will be built in England for the MINI. BMW is partnering with PSA mainly for help with logistics and for better economies of scale. This will be a complex and expensive engine, the more they make the less it will cost. This will be a German engineered engine built in the UK.</p>
<p>Totally agree with you george. What is BMW playing at with such an icon as the Mini. If the contract with Chrysler runs out 2007 what’s wrong in BMW developing their own 1.6 4cyl engine + supercharger. They have done it for the 1 series 1.6 + Turbo and keep the main component of a mini,the ENGINE BMW.
Disgusted that the PSA engine will also be mass produced and put into small / medium sized Citroens and Peugeots.
I would pay more if the engine was only for the Mini afterall nobody wants to pay £18000 for a Mini and somebody else having the same engine in a Citroen / Peugeot for a mere £8000.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Disgusted that the PSA engine will also be mass produced and put into small / medium sized Citroens and Peugeots. </p>
</blockquote>
<p>BWW doesn’t have the capital to spend on developing such a high-tech engine for a car whose annual production is so low. They need economies of scale for such development to be viable. Therefore they had to design and develop an engine and then find a partner to help with production logistics. </p>
<p>To me the argument against is simply ridiculous and in no way logical. You would take less refinement, performance, and technology if the engine was more exclusive. As an automotive enthusiast I find that trade-off to be unfathomable.</p>
<p>Fair point Gabe:
But do BMW engines feature in other manufactured cars. Certainly NOT.
So I’m still disgusted that BMW will ruin the mini forever, combining development with the likes of the french who lets say aren’t recogised in producing refined engines.
What was wrong in partnering another german company.
Being a car enthusiast whats wrong in modifying BMW’s 1.6 fleet and dropping it in the mini, to me that makes damm good sense for many aspects: COST,REFINEMENT,RELIABILITY,PRESTIGE.</p>
<p>Why is a German company preferred over a French company? Did I miss something here? Surely everyone understands that we are in a global ecomony and dozens of key components on the current MINI come from France.</p>
<p>Also it may be of note that BMW is currently rumored to be in talks with GM about supplying some of its award winning diesel engines. It’s all ecomonies of scale. If you want a company to stay independant and true to their mission in this day in age, compromises must be made in some way. Just be glad the compromises aren’t mechanical or technological.</p>
<p>I agree with Gabe on this one. I think people keep forgetting, despite MINI’s U.S. market position as “premium subcompact”, it’s still the cheapest car on BMW’s model line. For a high-tech, high performance engine such as this one, the development cost may sky-rocket to the point that they’d need to sell MINIs at $30k or more, then you’d have to ask yourself, whether the car’s pricing is reasonable for the market?</p>
<p>While BMW may modify BMW’s own 1.6 liter engine, I think MINI has much tougher constraints in size and weight than any of its BMW cousins to allow the modification to be practical. Take a look at a 1-series bonnet and you’ll notice the engine compartment is <em>HUGE</em> compared to the MINI.</p>
<p>One may argue that BMW can use it on its own low-end cars (such as the 1 series) to tip the economy of scale. However, because this is a relatively small engine with high performance, is it really practical to put to use in larger cars such as the 3-series and 5-series? Why would you use such a high-tech, compact engine, when a lower-tech, slightly larger engine could produce the same (or better) performance with about the same fuel economy? It’s like one could design a ultra-high-tech 2-cylinder engine that can produce 200hp, so it’s ultra small. Despite of that, would you prefer this 2-cylinder engine to a 4-cylinder producing the same power with lower tech?</p>
<p>In any case, partnering with other automakers to design an engine makes no less sense in cost, refinement, reliability and prestige than if BMW had designed the engine completely on their own. Given that BMW is the obvious expert in this field, and from the features and spec, they are the major contributors to the design, it is cost effective, would have the same (or similar) refinement and reliability as other BMW power plants, without any loss in prestige.</p>
<ol>
<li>Reliability with such profound engineering;</li>
<li>Price for the cooper S;</li>
<li>External aesthetics (which looks like they are getting cheap with)…</li>
</ol>
<p>in that order.</p>
<p>Will the MCS change from the supercharger to a turbo? </p>
<p>That is bad news for an automatic transmission lover.</p>
<p>Just a small thought from an Australian
mini cooper s driver – is there at all any possiblity that mini’s in the future would have a 2.0 Litre supercharged motor…..<br />
could some one advise me of this situation at all </p>
<p>Thank You </p>
<p>Rex James</p>
As an Australian driver of a mighty Peugeot 206GTi for the past five years (and almost 100,000 miles) now, I’m driving a French car built in England and LOVING it. I assume from the references to Chrysler that this is an American site, which perhaps explains the apparent ignorance of how the French — and Peugeot in particular — have been building cars that have <strong>dominated</strong> the World Rally Championship for the past five years (where I don’t seem to recall anything American, or German, come to think of it, even creating a ripple). Count yourselves lucky …
Just keep in mind that there are plenty of Americans (the people who run the site for instance) who are not ignorant about all of this. In fact there are many of us who can’t wait for the change.
So, did I miss it, or what, but any idea who will be the manufacturer of the turbo unit?
I think the new engine will be a great step. Turbo’s are much more efficient than superchargers. I will miss the whine of the supercharger, but the tunability of the new turbo unit will be great.
Thanks to all my gearhead brethren for all this talk on the new Mini engine. Now I’m really confused, but leaning toward just ordering the new car (if they’re even taking orders yet) and waiting. I was told by a dealer rep that the wait on a new order Mini is still 4-5 months. This is a CA dealer that sells MSRP. And they said they will not have the new model 07’s until January 07. This wait vs wait (which wait will it be?) makes me wonder if they’re just saying these things regarding 06 and 06 Minis to move the stock they have on hand. This dealer has a bunch of Minis, virtually all sunroofs and converts, and all I want is a plain white Mini S with a solid top with the Cooper Works package and the upgrade sound system. Hell, I’d take it with rollup windows if you could downgrade to that. 🙂 Tom
Hi, wow it does all look exciting…
I however am a little less than impressed by “bmw” engines.
We have a new bmw 318i and in the 3 months we have owned it it has been back to the garage 5 times with the same engine fault.
The engine loses power, stalls, fuel consumption goes down, power is lost, and it “misfires”.
they have diagnosed it as an engine management glitch, but cannot solve it. they have done various software fixes, swapped the valvetronic motor, and spent weeks on it without getting an answer. it is about to go back to them again…
these days they have to try and fix engines with laptops!
I just hope the mini engine is more reliable than it’s big brother’s.
I have a 2007 MCS and the engine is just outstanding. The low end torque is there as promised and the fuel economy is just unbelieveable. I get 37 mpg after a spirited mountain road driving. I would recommend a MINI Cooper S to anyone. The best engine I have had in any car.
sir! the is so cool! i hope i get that one mini engine
Funny how the entire text not only once has the keyword “reliability”. They mention noise, emission and fuel usage reduction quite often, but where are the notes about reliability?
No wonder Toyota rules…
<p>Hi, 30 000km (20 000 for diesel) has long been the service interval for the current engines here in Europe. And a lot of people don’t change oil more frequently, without any adverse effect.So who would let their engine go without an oil change for 30,000km?</p>
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