Nov 17th, 2010
Audio clip: Adobe Flash Player (version 9 or above) is required to play this audio clip. Download the latest version here. You also need to have JavaScript enabled in your browser.
Download | WRR @ iTunes | 31.3MB | 1:08:12
Todd, Gabe and myself talk about MINIs like we like and Todd got a few interviews from SEMA. Ask Chad will be back for Woofcast 358. We went a little long this week talking about the Countryman (again) and bashing GM (again) and a few other things (again).
While at SEMA, Todd get the chance to interview a couple of companies doing cool things for MINIs. One of them is Delucci Motor. Website isn’t ready yet, but there is a phone number and email address if you want to contact them further. continued →
Nov 16th, 2010
As we previously reported MINI USA is planning on a full release of JCW accessories before the official launch of the Countryman January 8th. In fact sources are telling us that the JCW accessories will start showing up in inventories as soon as December (including the JCW suspension and engine kit). Here’s the full rundown of what to expect:
- JCW Engine kit (identical to the one found in all other models)
- JCW Suspension (not as aggressive but pretty close to what we see in the other models)
- Two choices 19″ Wheels (black and polished – the best design MINI has created yet)
- JCW Aerokit (A lower prices kit involving less parts but every bit as aggressive)
- JCW Strips
- Red Mirrors
- Red Brake ducts
- JCW Steering Wheel
- JCW Shifter
In our minds the top four are stars of the shows here. Specifically the engine and suspension kits. The JCW Engine kit increases power from 181 hp to 195 hp and torque goes up to 184lb-ft between 1700-5500rpm (and about 200lb-ft between 1800 to 5000 rpm with overboost). In total that means you’re getting a 14 hp gain plus a serious torque boost – identical to what the kit offers on the R55, R56 and R57. continued →
Nov 16th, 2010
MINI advertising around the world often makes waves. The latest from MINI New Zealand is offering test drives at night. Why, you ask? Well it’s not just to show off the Xenons. The campaign takes a cheeky angle about what sorts of troublesome distractions can be avoided by dashing out in the dead of night. More after the break. continued →
Nov 15th, 2010
Both are online however the homepage and top navigation hasn’t been updated on the site. Therefore to configure a Countryman you need to choose a model (a Cooper S for example) and then click to change the model and choose the Countryman.
At this time it looks like the launch will be a multi-stage process with many of the JCW accessories not yet available on the configurator. But we’ll have more on that tomorrow.
Nov 15th, 2010
Some of you may remember rock legend Paul Weller from the 2009 MINI 50th Anniversary celebration at Silverstone. His collaboration with MINI continues with a uniquely custom car of his design and MINI’s making. Specially built at Oxford and hand painted by MINI craftsman, this one-of-a-kind Cooper will be up for auction until December 11th on behalf of charities Nordoff Robins and War Child. Press release details and gallery after the break. continued →
Nov 12th, 2010
New figures from the EPA confirm that the MINI Cooper remains one of the most fuel-efficient cars you can own. It’s tops in its class and right in there with the best performers from its surrounding car classes as well. See the numbers and get the full PDF after the break. continued →
Nov 11th, 2010
We’ve been hearing rumors for quite sometime about MINI USA making a big (and unexpected) splash during America’s largest sporting even, the Superbowl. And while we can’t give any more details at this time we can give you one word that you should remember… after the jump. continued →
