MINIUSA New Site & Configurator Launched

Sections: MF Feature Nov 21st, 2006 64 Comments

As we promised a few days back, MINI USA official taken the wraps off it’s completely redesigned website. Front and center with this redesign is the updated 2007 configurator featuring the R56 and a host of changes to the existing R52 convertible line-up.

But enough reading, let’s configure:

[ MINI USA.com ]

Written By: Gabe

64 Comments

mike Nov 20th, 2006 Link

They’re quoting 191 lb/ft of torque as the standard figure and not just a brief overboost. Sweet!

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Weeeeeee!!! It’s the old configurator, only better! (I was afraid it was gonna be like the one in the UK site)

Thank you MINIUSA!!!!!

Rich.

Benjamin Sidon Nov 20th, 2006 Link

This is better than Christmas.

Paul Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I like it a lot! No pop ups!

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

OK, I just noticed they reduced the “full” maintenance to 3 yrs / 36K miles. Is that new? Also, it’s too bad most of the options I want aren’t available until 3/07. Also noticing several small nit-picks but overall this thing rocks!

MauiMac Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Looking good! I like the fact that the Aero Kit can be factory installed.

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I was hoping the JCW mods would be made to work on this version, but they still don’t update the master vehicle model. Darn!

Benjamin Sidon Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Oh man, the non-JCW body kit is awful-looking.

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Can we file bugs/Feature requests here? Will miniusa read this?

-After making a new config can’t export to PDF or some other easily printable format for bringing to the dealer :-D

-I tried the email a config option, emailed it to myself and when I click the link I get a 404 error on the miniusa site.

Kyle Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Anyone see the Aero kit under section three thumbnail? It’s not selectable, but it’s different than the JCW kit. I think it looks better.

Seth L Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Yay, it works great in Opera!

That was my #1 complaint about the old site.

eto Nov 20th, 2006 Link

hmm… Lightning Blue looks similar to the color on the GP… perhaps it is just my monitor.

The new site is excellent. I’m amazed at how much better the US configurator is in comparison to the European sites.

joey drama Nov 20th, 2006 Link

no brg color line? :(

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I think the ‘classic’ combo with BRG is the wood/Cream Color line isn’t it?

groland Nov 20th, 2006 Link

For $159 you can emphasize your fake scoop with some chrome! ;)

JP Nov 20th, 2006 Link

First config of MINI S is a little over $30K. I wish the colors were truer. I like the Lightning Blue as seen on my monitor, but it’s probably a darker blue. I will see my M. A. soon to see the real colors. Except for the confusion over the trueness of the colors, this is an improvement over the old site.

vuanguyen Nov 20th, 2006 Link

$550 for a multifunction leather sport wheel??? Classical BMW Rip-off.

mdsbrain Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Todd has hinted he thought a set of slotted and drilled rotors were coming. But he said as a option for the 02-06 MINIs. hehe oh well. I love some of the options including the R108 wheels.

dickdavid Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Wow, I need to upgrade my home computer. I’m sure the Flash looks pretty smooth on a better machine.

GadgetGav Nov 20th, 2006 Link

OK, am I going to have to be the first one to say I can’t build a MINI I like..? :( I really want to like this car because I don’t know when they’ll change it next and my current MCS is already 4 years old, but I really can’t get to liking that new interior. I hope it will look better in person. The configurator itself is good, if a little slow (but their servers are probably getting hammered), but I’m really disappointed that I can’t make a car that makes me want to buy it like I did when I configured my current car…

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Looks like the EPA mileage values are not finalized yet. It’s still TBD on the site.

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Also the 0-60 time of 6.7s isn’t bad. And bmw is notorious for understating performance values. That means 6.5s or less probably won’t be hard to attain.

Vanwall Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Nice job, and it is still the ne plus ultra of configurators. I’m having fun with it for the rest of the evening!

            BCNU
          Rob in Dago

Stephanie Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I’ve waiting 3 months to order my new mini, but now I guess I’ll have to do it without GPS :(. WHY!!!! WHY!!!

Ketan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

The site is great, we have something the Europeans and the rest of the world wished they had. I am going to spend hours at work coming up with the perfect Mini but BRG with tan leather is the way to go.

Gabe Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Todd has hinted he thought a set of slotted and drilled rotors were coming. But he said as a option for the 02-06 MINIs. hehe oh well.

Yes they should be compatible with the R50/R52/R53.

VMMVMMM Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I love this. Those R108 wheels are sweet!

allenski Nov 20th, 2006 Link

it was fun configuring something NEW….it was the same anticipated feeling when I first configured my current MINI 5 months ago. I configured the same specs of my ‘06 to the ‘07. By comparison, the ‘07 would have cost me 3k more than what I paid for on my ‘06.

Aurel Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Site looks much better and functions much smoother than the previous version … they should have let the web developers redo the actual car … hehe.

Anyway, what’s with the “lowered” stance on both the MC and MCS in the config … they actually made them look good. Is that the new reality of the real world one, or is this just the way it looks on the web?

James Nov 20th, 2006 Link

OK, I know some of that stuff isn’t available until 3/07, but can’t they let us configure it now? I can’t configure my ideal MINI at the moment, so it’s almost pointless. Lightning Blue looks wrong, too much like Cool Blue. Astro Black still doesn’t look right, no hint of blue at all.

Josh Wardell Nov 20th, 2006 Link

I think Beamland did a wonderful job with the new site. Much snappier for me, navigation a little more simpler too. I hope there are new easter eggs to be found!

I quickly configured an 07… $34k and that’s without any JCW kit yet! Still not sure if I like the new one till I see it but I know I can’t afford it even if I do!

I’ve always wanted contrasting viper stripes and now they are a factory option..roof too!

Jeff Nov 21st, 2006 Link

James,

I agree. I wish even if the options aren’t available until 3/07, it would be nice to actually allow us to put them on.

Plus, I really want to see the hypersport Aero kit on the car to compare it to the JCW one. If I have to save additional money for the JCW to get the one I want, that shifts my whole budget around. Grumble grumble…

Gabe, any word on if/when those March 07 options will be made available?

Pogo Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Interesting, all of the ridicule of the non-functional MCS hood scoop may be unfounded. Miniusa webpage: Facts, Features & Specs; Performance & Efficiency; Hood Scoop Air-Intake details states “Like any performance vehicle worth its metal, the MINI Cooper S features an air-intake scoop in the bonnet that, besides looking bad-ass, helps provide ample airflow to the powerful turbocharged engine. Helping everything stay perfectly cool for optimum performance.”

BzzzBom Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Real MINIs have real hood scoops

Eelke Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Real MINIs have real hood scoops

Er, my classic doesn’t, and you can’t get much more real Mini than that. ;)

I wonder if they’ll add a (costless) “remove hood scoop” option to the price list, though. It’s just plain silly.

Brian Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Interesting now with the Cabrio there is a Sirius option. But only a 1 year versus a lifetime for the R56. So Cabrio lovers are being punished….

Joema Nov 21st, 2006 Link

I checked out the new US configurator last night and the colors looked wrong. For example, the lightning blue looks completely different than the lightning blue on the European sites (almost a pastel purple compared to a medium to dark blue). Also, the Redwood Red seats look odd. Hopefully MINI will fix this, as the colors and appearance of the seats are deceiving.

Jeffrey Nov 21st, 2006 Link

I’m with GadgetGav. Hopefully once we start seeing these options in person, I will change my mind. The colors on screen just don’t look right. The interior choices seem either too dark or too flashy. The closest thing to Indi Blue with Lapis Blue leather is the Laser Blue with Pacific Blue Cloth/Leather w/ ColorLine. It’s nice but not as deep and true blue. :) I told my wife she doesn’t need to worry about me ordering a new MINI this year. She smiled.

mpike Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Nothing was said in the configuration about the interior lighting that changes colors. That is not something I really care to pay extra for but I was wandering if it will be an option here in the US &/or will it be included in one of the packages? Also I am really interested in the alarm system. When will it be available and for how much?

Jeff Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Is the site down? All I get is a bare-bones outline of Mini info.

Gabe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Here’s the thing everyone needs to remember. This was originally planned for a December launch. The fact that it was moved up a month would indicate that they’ve had to make some concessions and will be improving the site in the weeks and months ahead.

Or in other words… be happy it’s a month early :)

banjoez Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Now that you can compare and visualize the old vs new on the same site (Cabrio vs R56) you can really see how much more bloated the new model looks. It may be a better performer but it has really lost a lot of its “MINIness” in the translation. Also $550 for cruise control? Give me a break…..

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

You just gotta love the option for robotic heated side mirrors. Was this a rumored option?

Gabe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

You just gotta love the option for robotic heated side mirrors. Was this a rumored option?

It was confirmed as a US option on this site earlier in the year. It’s been available outside the US for years.

Ben Nov 21st, 2006 Link

While a bunch of options (Hyper Sport, NAV, etc.) are known to not be available before 03/07, does anybody know when the new iPod adapter will make its debut? All it says on MINIUSA is “coming soon…”

I’m scheduled for a Feb build, and I’d rather not have to retrofit….

Seth L Nov 21st, 2006 Link

It’s fantastic seeing the new Wheels, Roof options (red stripes!), and upholstery. They all look great, and itÃ¢â‚¬â„¢s nice to be able to compare.

Crusoe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Very cool! A Pepper White MCS looks great, also liking the Sparkling based on UK photos. My MCS build is the same as before $26000. Now just waiting for the ‘09 50th Anniversary Model. Till then Pepe MC will keep me entertained.

Agree, MFSW price is crazy.

Pedro Nov 21st, 2006 Link

I am pleased that you can get the upgraded audio system for $550 without getting the whole $1400 HD radio / satellite options…

Nathaniel Salzman Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Wow. I LOVE what they’ve done with the site. It’s more simple, but in a good way, and they’ve done new and fresh things with the look of the brand – like spinning the color box and exploding the car. The site has a real sense of visual depth and dimension that it never had before. Where the old site was fairly flat and static, this one moves and transitions with a lot of energy. Very cool!

The configurator is also great – always was – and I’m happy to see that they’ve mostly just evolved it. There are SO many options. It reinvigorates my hatred for most of the new interior, but I’ll get over it. I hope they bring the silver roof back at some point. That’s one of my favorite things about my MCS.

Michael Baumann Nov 21st, 2006 Link

This is a great configurator! I don’t understand why Germany (or Europe) gets a rather crappy one in comparision. Or why MINI does have different configurators at all… Anyway, makes me want to configure just another car, very well done.

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Any thoughts as to why choosing the “powerfold” heated mirrors forces you to delete the cold weather package that consists of heated seats and heated washer fluid nozzles?

O(=^=)O Capn Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Because the mirrors are heated too. So, if you remove one of the items from the package it is no longer a package. That is why we love MINI a la carte.

O(=^=)O Capn Nov 21st, 2006 Link

I would say that it is a great evolution of the site just like the car is (except the headlights and interior)

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

But the configurator makes no mention of mirrors as part of the current cold weather package. Typo?

Pogo Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

The MCS Bonnet Scoop is Real!

http://miniusa.com/404.html#/learn/FACTS_FEATURES_SPECS/Pricing_Full_Equipment_List-s

Ã¢â‚¬Å“Like any performance vehicle worth its metal, the MINI Cooper S features an air-intake scoop in the bonnet that, besides looking bad-ass, helps provide ample airflow to the powerful turbocharged engine. Helping everything stay perfectly cool for optimum performance.Ã¢â‚¬Â

Sam Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

Gabe,

Is this true about the Scoop ? Is it real like Mini claims ?

Lucas L. Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

Wohoo! The two spoke steering wheels are back — but not for multi-function though… aannhh.

There is also an option for white rear turn signals… anyone knows what color the standard u.s. spec rear turn signal is? I know Euro specs are orange, but a lot of car makers these days are going for red turn signals for u.s. versions — which I always thought was stupid — cause that’s the same color as the brake lights. These days, around where I live, people already don’t (or don’t know how to) use their turn signals any more — making their color red probably would confuse them even more…

GZ Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

I actually like the new interior and exterior. The black/red leather/cloth seats will be great with a red or black car(please bring back REAL black for ‘08 MCSC!)The 10 speaker high fi will be an improvement over HK. I wonder if the JCW seats will be offered in color combos too.

I’m a bit confused as to what the “hyper sport” suspension will be. The “sport” button on the S must not be the only performance option for handling. Will the “HS” suspension replave the JCW suspension or will there be more upgrades dowm the road? Any details on what “HS” entails? They mentioned thicker sway bars (19″,22″?). Is this bad news for the aftermarket?

Morgan Moore Nov 24th, 2006 Link

Anyone know if there is a difference between the $140 “Chrome exterior mirrors” available in the Accessories/exterior styling section and the $150 “Chrome mirror caps” available as a choice when you are in the “Paint it” phase??

John Stauffer Nov 25th, 2006 Link

Getting pricey. I had a 2003 Cooper (not an S) – don’t ask why I sold it, but long story short, I essentially owned it for nearly free for a year and a half due to stellar resale. Toying with the idea of an ‘07 ‘S’, but I’m over $25K with cloth seats. If I equip an ‘07 the same way as my ‘03, it’s roughly $2500 higher. I wonder if the value equation still holds…

geno Nov 27th, 2006 Link

I found a “mistake” if you go into the audio section in Step 4. And you slide the selection over so you can pick the HD radio. Watch the Sirus picture.

Lorri Nov 27th, 2006 Link

Can’t build anything. Just get the websites “404 error, page not found.” I am a bit bummed, as I’ve been anxiously awaiting the day I could build my new MINI. I love my 05, but am thinking about a new one.

NICK Nov 27th, 2006 Link

the only thing that sucks is that u cannot see the john cooper works body kit on the car if you pick the option

Jenny Dec 1st, 2006 Link

Where’s the Oxygen Blue for the Cooper?

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MINIUSA New Site & Configurator Launched

Sections: MF Feature Nov 21st, 2006 64 Comments

Written By: Gabe

64 Comments

mike Nov 20th, 2006 Link

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Benjamin Sidon Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Paul Nov 20th, 2006 Link

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

MauiMac Nov 20th, 2006 Link

MrChips Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Benjamin Sidon Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Kyle Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Seth L Nov 20th, 2006 Link

eto Nov 20th, 2006 Link

joey drama Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

groland Nov 20th, 2006 Link

JP Nov 20th, 2006 Link

vuanguyen Nov 20th, 2006 Link

mdsbrain Nov 20th, 2006 Link

dickdavid Nov 20th, 2006 Link

GadgetGav Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Brendan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Vanwall Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Stephanie Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Ketan Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Gabe Nov 20th, 2006 Link

VMMVMMM Nov 20th, 2006 Link

allenski Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Aurel Nov 20th, 2006 Link

James Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Josh Wardell Nov 20th, 2006 Link

Jeff Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Pogo Nov 21st, 2006 Link

BzzzBom Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Eelke Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Brian Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Joema Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Jeffrey Nov 21st, 2006 Link

mpike Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Jeff Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Gabe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

banjoez Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Gabe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Ben Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Seth L Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Crusoe Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Pedro Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Nathaniel Salzman Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Michael Baumann Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

O(=^=)O Capn Nov 21st, 2006 Link

O(=^=)O Capn Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Morgan Moore Nov 21st, 2006 Link

Pogo Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

Sam Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

Lucas L. Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

GZ Nov 22nd, 2006 Link

Morgan Moore Nov 24th, 2006 Link

John Stauffer Nov 25th, 2006 Link

geno Nov 27th, 2006 Link

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