Sections: R56 (Coupe) | Rumor Mar 13th, 2006 30 Comments It looks like the 2007 MINI may have been officially debuted at the Oxford Plant by BMW brass late last week. Here’s short account from a rather jaded source at the plant:
The “R56″ was officially unveiled to staff at Plant Oxford last week. The “Roadshow” as it was called, was fronted by Plant Director Dr. Anton Heiss. After much unneeded excitement and questioning from his on stage colleague who’s name I forget, the tarpaulin was hauled off of the already half uncovered car. Dr Heiss talked us through the “ground breaking” developments and how, in his opinion the car is “even more go-kart like.” Yes the R56 has grown in most dimension for example 20mm at the rear but at what cost? The only exciting development I can remember from the roadshow is the fact that the new CooperS engine, labeled the N14, is in-fact turbo-charged!
MF Analysis: Sometimes for all the praise that the MINI gets we all forget that for some of the people making the car, “it’s just a job”. Nevertheless it’s nice to hear that 2007 MINI is progressing. We should start seeing some more revealing spy shots in the coming weeks and an official web introduction in the coming months.
05DSMCS Mar 13th, 2006 Link
Hmmm…sounds like a cynical recount of the event to me. Is it because this person is a disgruntled employee that they are so willing to divulge this information in what seems to be a sarcastic tone? I hope the final result doesn’t come with such a lukewarm reaction from the public.
GSKChicago Mar 13th, 2006 Link
When will the dealerships start taking orders for the ‘07 model? Just out of curiosity.
Dave Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I wouldn’t be surprised if the overall public reaction was lukewarm. MINI seems to be headed down a very evolutionary 911-esque path. While that’s nice for preserving historical design ties, it also has the side-effect of not having the next model be dramatically different from the current one. The new MINI got a lot of initial press because it was breaking new ground and making a modern day update to a classic, but the R56 won’t be so “fresh” in nearly that same way. Because of that, I wouldn’t be surprised if the reaction (to a new model that looks much the same as the current one) turns out lukewarm.
goonery Mar 13th, 2006 Link
saucer of milk for table 3 waiter !
TooLShack Mar 13th, 2006 Link
The reaction should be lukewarm, the new model really doesn’t do anything that differen. Yes there is a new motor but it’s the same HP range as the previous model, it’s just more of the same. I guess I might be jaded a bit myself because I want more from a Mini than they are willing to give. I want AWD I want more HP, I just want so much more from the car.
Tim Mar 13th, 2006 Link
Seems to me, if you are a current MINI owner, you would not want the next model to be drastically different from the one you own. Wouldn’t the value of used MINI’s be diminished if the new ones looked a lot different and were more desireable? I’m happy with evolution and, in my opinion, the 911 is a great example. Name another car model that was around 30 years ago, has evolved steadily over the time span and has never lost mardet appeal.
Shamus Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I’ve worked for several companies that have unveiled “new” products. While they’re usually great in some way, all the pre-release, company hype just gets on your nerves to the extent of jading the product itself! I imagine they’re just a little tired of hearing the marketing gimmicks.
Pete Mar 13th, 2006 Link
Does this “source” build our cars? Maybe he was responsible for the ‘03 window glitches, or the tailgate squeeks or the dash rattles…he should be happy BMW chose to build the car in the UK! He’s got a job, at least!
blalor Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I’m happy with evolution and, in my opinion, the 911 is a great example. Name another car model that was around 30 years ago, has evolved steadily over the time span and has never lost mardet appeal.
Depending on how snide you want to be, you could argue: 1. the 911 hasn’t gained any market appeal in 30 years, or 2. the 911 doesn’t have much market appeal to lose
I think the 911’s an incredibly capable sports car (from what I’ve heard; never had the opportunity to drive one) that’s about as bland as can be. In my opinion, all Porsches look the same in a way that goes far beyond mere family resemblance.
With the exception of Porsche’s cars (or because of Porsche’s cars) and the original Mini, if you don’t continually improve and refresh the car, you’re going to lose buyers. I love my MINI; it’s capable and it looks the dog’s knickers (or however it is that Cockney saying goes…) and it still gets lots of attention. They’re also still selling like gangbusters. But I do feel that if BMW doesn’t continue to revise the car, that it’ll eventually die. I just hope they resist the urge to make the car bigger over time, like the 3 series and VW with the Corolletta.
Rollin Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I’m glad to hear from the management level the acknowledgement of the importance of the appeal of the go-kart qualities. Hopefully this means the sports-car suspension will never be trimmed as a cost cut.
I think the traveler and other configurations will be the new ground for this generation. I too hope they just don’t make it a little bigger with each generation. Keep it Mini.
IanF Mar 13th, 2006 Link
” wouldn’t be surprised if the overall public reaction was lukewarm. MINI seems to be headed down a very evolutionary 911-esque path. “
So.. in about 20 years, the MINI will be powerful and great but a bit bloated and expensive, so BMW will introduce a less expensive “MINster”?
I’m still waiting until I see the new car in person….
Da Boy Mar 13th, 2006 Link
Cumon Pete, Be nice…
Nathaniel Salzman Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I agree that from what we’ve seen so far, the new new MINI will be pretty ho-hum when it comes to public reception. Though the changes are many, they are also pretty small. The grill is different, but not that different. The bonnet is different, but not that different. New motor and a very different interior, but overall, as has been said over and over, the average non-enthusiast won’t know the difference when they see one drive by. I’m OK with that. The Mini didn’t change for decades in any terribly significant way and yet still sold. I think MINI could easily be the exception to the prevalent attitude of “we’ve got to change the car all the time or it won’t sell.” I don’t think the car should continuously evolve as much as it should simply continuously improve. It does so many things so very well that seasonal aesthetic updates aren’t necessary for the car to be successful – especially with the expansion of the family to include the Traveller. I think this current evolutionary step is as big as is appropriate – new powerplant, simpler interior, pedestrian impact standards – but otherwise the minor adjustments made to the car throughout it’s current generation are exactly what I’m talking about. MINI simply made the car better. The dash rattled, so it was simplified into fewer pieces. The Cooper S was a little sluggish off the line, so they changed the gear ratios. Just little improvements that add up to the car getting better and better over time, yet always looking like itself.
At least that’s what I think. The car has such a wonderful timeless quality and I don’t want to see that lost in the name of mandatory evolution. It’s lines are so well-penned that I think they will stand the test of time if they’re allowed.
Teresa Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I say if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.
IMHO it would have been pretty tough to redesign the MINI & keep it as eye pleasing as it currently is (not saying it would have been impossible but I doubt they could have) so I for one am thankful that they are keeping the current look pretty much in tact. Hopefully the look will still be the same in 2009 as I plan to add a new one to my collection at that time ;)
kelly Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I would guess that the real reason for the refresh is to swap the engines. the cosmetics, chassis and bug fixes are for parts sharing with the new Traveller. After the R56 they will probably slow to a rate similar to the new Bettle.
To all yall porsche bashers, don’t forget that their low market SHARE saved vw from a hostile takeover last year.
james Mar 13th, 2006 Link
I think the main reason for the refresh is that the new engine demanded it. They are trying to make the car basically as good as the last one. Given the major, and somewhat unforseen change, with the engine this is the best way to go. And yes Merc buying Chrysler was not in the original Mini plans.
Dave. T Mar 13th, 2006 Link
as to the source’s attitude, I’m assuming he’s British. that should explain his tone. Just read it with a British accent and it doesn’t sound so bad.
faster,Tobias! Mar 13th, 2006 Link
The cosmetic changes came about not due to the engine, but because of changes to pedestrian safety laws in Europe. There now needs to be a minimum distance between the bonnet and the engine, lessening the chance a pedestrian struck by a vehicle should come in contact with the engine.
Bilbo Baggins Mar 13th, 2006 Link
The comparison to a 911 is not that far fetched. With the 911 they have a “mission statement” that clearly defines the direction that the 911 will always move.
I just hope that BMW/MINI has a clear “mission statement” for the MINI. I hope the mission statement is the same as what mine is. Because I would like to keep buying this brand of car for a long time into the future. But if it does not maintain a STRONG sporting heritage with “go-kart” like handling that improves with each succeeding model. Preformance that make incremental improvement with each new model. Never straying from the concept of the 2001 MINI. A small, tight, great handling, sporty car with a long option list that allows each buyer to customise to his hearts delight.
Vanwall Mar 14th, 2006 Link
If you end up with questionable decisions like say, the Mustang II, it only makes change for change’s sake seem like a poor excuse for even a minimal use of gray matter. MINI will most likely never be more than a niche car, even if in a very big niche like Porsche, and alienating the core buyer with “with-it” styling is not a formula for success.
The running gear could be updated, but I’d much rather they don’t make any radical changes in the styling – it’s already at an iconic zen-like level, a streak carried over from the Classic Mini. You don’t get there too often, and Crash Davis was right – don’t f with a streak.
BCNU,
Rob in Dago
Billy Mar 14th, 2006 Link
In response to questions about my tone! – Yes, I am British. And yes I am somewhat bored of this model already, as I have to endure the torture as approximately 25 almost random people who are supposed “launch champions” follow each of the R56 shells around the factory, instructing us on what to do! We all have our little part to play, and far be it from me to be silly enough as to reveal which part I play BUT when people outside of Plant Oxford see what the R56 is really like, it’ll be a massive let-down. Even the guy (who’s name I forget again) at the head of design for R56 could only produce the word “muchness!” from his somewhat limited vocabulary, to describe the over-all evolution of the Mini brand. They’ve splashed it with a bit more chrome, especially the rear lights which look AWFUL. I think the trim around the tail lights is at least 8mm thick! The “muchness” man said this will increase the “Britishness” What does that mean? If we’re in the habbit of suffixing words here to describe the R56 lets use ones like, Boringness and muchofthesamebuteversoslightlydifferentness. But I suppose this is my humble opinion which I am of course entitled too! We’ve so far built over 75 R56 mules, and according to Dr. Heiss we shall have produced over 550 by the time it is OFFICIALLY UNVEILED (hint hint) in 6 months time. – From the horse’s mouth ladies and gents. In conclusion – make of it what you will when it is released. Beware of the muchness!
Teresa Mar 14th, 2006 Link
Well “Billy” if you are really the source, I am thrilled as most Mini owners are that there will not be many changes to the Mini appearance. If you are bored with your job may I suggest that you try working for a different auto manufacturer. They are constantly & drastically changing things up because they can’t seem to get it right the 1st time. How exciting ;)
Justin Mar 14th, 2006 Link
You’re kidding right? Take a look at how many 911s Porsche sold in its inception and trend the sales figures over time, you’ll clearly find a fairly steady growth pattern (albeit some drop-offs at times). While the 911 has clearly put on some weight and sophistication, it remains a paragon in the sports car world. Btw, if you ever get the opportunity to get some seat time in one (911), take advantage of it!
Depending on how snide you want to be, you could argue: 1. the 911 hasn’t gained any market appeal in 30 years, or 2. the 911 doesn’t have much market appeal to lose
I think the 911’s an incredibly capable sports car (from what I’ve heard; never had the opportunity to drive one) that’s about as bland as can be. In my opinion, all Porsches look the same in a way that goes far beyond mere family resemblance.
tony T Mar 14th, 2006 Link
I think we should thank Billy personally – I dont want to get all excited over what turns out to be yet another Damp Squib….
minimc Mar 14th, 2006 Link
THANK YOU Billy!!
Finally someone who’s not blowing BMW-branded sunshine where it normally doesn’t!
Say what you will for Billy’s comments, but I think he’s spot-on. Most folks will continue to buy the MINI… not really recognizing the changes. The enthusiasts won’t have much to cheer about.
But that’s because of the current trend of let-downs… No AWD after the Getrag proto tested SO well (and gained so little weight) on the current plaform. AND the Emporer’s GP MCS. We had reason for higher expectation, but apparently we’re not the target.
If BMW can continue to pump out MINI’s which almost sell themselves why spend a bunch of profit to R&D a new drivetrain? An unfortunate effect of MINI’s overwhelming success.
I’m fairly happy with my current MCS. I’m just unimpressed with BMW brass. Typical.
ichor Mar 15th, 2006 Link
the new rear lights are indeed horrible. not to mention the interior…
[...] R56 Debut at the Plant [...]
Jodie Apr 26th, 2006 Link
I am currently a sales lady for MINI in the UK and im shocked at how so many people can have so many negative things to say about the new MINI! None of you have driven it so you have no idea about “the feel behind the wheel” and its not just about having a MINI its about what it represents-being able to design your own car, getting membership to the ministry, having wacky names to descibe colours such as black eyed purple. So I Suggest we all wait untill it comes out and see what extra’s are avaliable to spice our MINI Up. A point no-one has mentioned is the options that are going to be avaliable-we may have a whole new range so before you diss it-try it.
Paul Walster Apr 10th, 2008 Link
Have a listen to my 17k mileage r56 cooper s when started in the morning: http://www.strum.it/mcs Derek Woodman, Blackpool (where the car was bought from new) consider this normal. And after being shown the video, a senior mechanic from David Holms, Stockport also says the noise is normal. When asked why my Mini didn’t always sound like a tractor every morning, he said that it depends on which “phase” the engine starts? Someone from Mini please help! Paul Walster, Director Crosbie Cain & Kennish, Isle Of Man.
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