Archive for July 2010
Jul 9th, 2010
Update: Thanks to an MF reader we now know this car is actually a GETRAG Hybrid demo car. This is from Gettag; “The GETRAG hybrid demo car is a joint development of the hybrid cooperation GETRAG/BOSCH. Torque-split and axle-split hybrid versions are integrated into the same vehicle, making it possible to experience various possibilities of hybridization in the same vehicle.â€
World Car Fans is reporting the existence of a hybrid Clubman S but a closer look puts that statement into question. A look at the spy photo’s provided shows what appears to be a very aggressive JCW GP like body kitted Clubman with “hybrid drive” printed on the doors. Also notable is the peculiar location of the tailpipe, sidepipe’s just ahead of the left rear wheel.
Even more strange? The kit is eerily similar to an aftermarket kit we’ve seen many times. Could it be an aftermarket company trying to get some viral play in the market place?
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Jul 8th, 2010
After two hours of talking everything MINI, it’s over. Look for the show to be in iTunes early next week.
Jul 8th, 2010
Five new wheels are being introduced with the 2011 refresh. Starting with the Cooper, we see a new 15†wheel for the base model and all the 16s are being replaced with new designs (as seen above).
The Rib Spoke replaces the standard S-Winder on the Cooper S models and the 4-Hole Circular is an alternative for both Cooper and Cooper S cars. The 6-Star Twin Spoke is also available, and is the only 16†that can be had in either Bright Silver (standard) or Jet Black as a no charge option when you specify option 2RV.
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Jul 7th, 2010
MINI announced today that they will make use of the new iPod Out feature in iOS4 (Apple’s new operating system for the iPhone and iPod Touch) in future vehicles. The launch of a newly developed BMW Group interface technology will give both future MINI vehicles an easy-to-operate, intuitive way of using their iPhone and iPod touch.
Official Release: iPod Out enables BMW and MINI infotainment systems to display and control the music playback feature in iPhone and iPod touch in the vehicle’s main display. The on-board monitor in BMW and MINI provides users with the simplicity and familiarity they have come to trust in their iPhone and iPod touch and the intuitive and integrated iPod navigation menu can be safely operated through the vehicle’s interface controls. Additionally, state-of-the-art iPod features such as custom playlists and Genius, which instantly creates a playlist of songs that go well together from a user’s own library, is immediately made available to BMW and MINI drivers through the vehicle’s main display. iPod Out requires iOS 4 with iPhone 3G, iPhone 3GS, iPhone 4 and iPod touch (second and third generation).
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Jul 7th, 2010
For our US readers there have been a few interesting changes to MINI USA’s ordering packages. The premium, convienance, sport and cold weather packages are largely left unchanged but there are number of additions worth mentioning. The recently released “Value” package will continue for 2011 with the following options:
We don’t have pricing but we expect it to remain $1500. The package will be available only on the Cooper since the factory aero kit isn’t compatible with the brake ducts on the JCW or MCS. Of course the problem for most discerning MINI enthusiasts is of course the hugely unpopular factory aero kit. Sources are telling us that it’s included in this package simply because MINI has an enormous stockpile of them they need to get rid of before likely eliminating the factory aerokit for the 2012 model year. It’s also worth noting that the factory aero kit will not work on the 2011 MCS or JCW due to MINI not wanting to redesign it to accommodate for the new brake ducts.
Regardless if you can stomach the look the package will surely offer good value for the money.
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Jul 6th, 2010
Leading up to the debut of the 2011 MINI we’ve been dropping hints that the revised JCW will be both a little dissapointing and a surprising at the same time. Last week with the official information release it became clear that MINI’s intent was to make the JCW more unique while keeping the price relatively untouched. Untouched you say? Yes we expect a price increase of no more than a few hundred dollars over the 2011 JCW.
The biggest visual change is the optional Chili red roof and mirrors that coordinate rather well with with the new black and red bonnet stripes. However as expected MINI will only allow the roof with these approved exterior colors:
- BRG II
- Pepper White
- White Silver
- Midnight Black
- Eclipse Grey
Now here’s the list if exterior colors that are available but not with the new Chili Red roof:
- Laser Blue
- Spice Orange
- Chili Red
- Horizon Blue
- Ice Blue
- Hot Chocolate
But what about the new standard and optional equippment? Here’s the list:
Jul 5th, 2010
A few weeks back we heard a rumor of MINI altering the steering for the 2011 refresh. We now know why. It isn’t to give it more feel (as we reported) but to alleviate torque steer. More specifically the updated software uses the EPS to help the car maintain a straight line under full acceleration.
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