Nov 1st, 2014
We know. You’re wondering how we can be so confident about the US finally getting a diesel MINI when MINI USA has either shown ambivalence or pulled plug on the program in the past. Five years ago the US was on the verge of getting an R56 diesel. However due to the global economy meltdown the business case just didn’t make sense. However this time things are different. The UKL platform from the beginning has been designed to accommodate the urea tank required for US diesels making modifications less expensive. Then there’s the increased interest in higher MPG and diesel in the US that are both consumer cost (never mind the currently low fuel prices) and legislation driven.
So what diesel MINI will the US get? We originally reported that the US would be getting a MINI Clubman SD for 2017. While we believe that’s still likely, we believe that a Countryman SD is actually more likely for the 2018 model year. What’s the SD? Simply put it’s a diesel Cooper S drivetrain that produces 168bhp at 4000rpm and 266lb ft lbs at 1500rpm. MPG? That’s where things get really interesting. continued →
Aug 13th, 2014
During #mtts2014, we were able to speak with Chris Potgieter, MINIUSA Product Manager about questions that were submitted to Motoringfile as well as a few we had. As always, Chris was very forthcoming with details that he knew about and could speak about.
That includes:
- Details on the forthcoming JCW exterior package (and the return of Chili Red)
- Other JCW accessories and even info on the new tuning kit
- A mention of touch-screens in future MINIs? It’s in there – not sure what it really means
- Hints at forthcoming CarPlay integration
- Update on new options available for 2015
- Diesel updates
- Timing on the F55 four door in the US
It’s worth listening to the entire thing after the break. continued →
Jun 12th, 2014
A few days ago we told you about MINI USA’s plans to release a Clubman diesel in late 2016/early 2017. Today we get an early peak at what will likely be a variation of the engine used. The Cooper SD is the fastest and most powerful diesel ever offered in a MINI. With 170hp and a healthy 266 ft lbs of torque, the new 2.0L diesel should sprint to 60 mph in under seven seconds while returning 59 MPG US (4.0 to 4.1 litres per 100 kilometers). Will we see that kind of efficiency with the Clubman? It’s much too early to tell but we’d expect MINI to aim for something over 50 MPG.
Read on for the full details on the new Cooper SD and the MINI One First that was also launched today. continued →
Jun 9th, 2014
It’s easy to forget that MINI’s largest market doesn’t actually get the full MINI lineup. In particular, the US has never had access to MINI diesels. For years, MINI USA has attempted to bring a diesel model to the US, but poor fuel standards, engineering challenges and finally economic hardships have undercut the business case for diesel MINIs in America. However, that’s about to change. MotoringFile has received news from our sources that MINI is in the process engineering an entirely new diesel model specifically for the US market.
continued →
Feb 9th, 2014
Rounding out the launch models of the F56 will be the MINI Cooper D, One and One D. Let’s start with the One, MINI’s value and efficiency leader across both the petrol and diesel ranges. continued →
Dec 10th, 2013
If there’s one thing offered on MINI’s abroad that’s been coveted by US MINI enthusiasts, it’s diesel power train. With the debut of the F56, many US MINI fans are waiting with bated breath to hear official news of the much-teased Cooper SD power plant making its way to our shores. We haven’t received that confirmation yet, but we do know that MINI USA is trying to make the case. If the numbers line up, we’ll see possibly the Cooper D or Cooper SD become available in the US MINI lineup.
continued →
Jun 17th, 2013
In markets outside the USA, MINI diesel power plants have offered buyers additional options when it comes to saving fuel. From the frugal MINI Cooper D, to the more sporting MINI Cooper SD, the oil burning versions of the MINI have been objects of desire for many a state-side MINI fan. Personally, some of the most fun I’ve ever had in a MINI was motoring up the German Autobahn in a MINI Cooper SD Clubman. All that torquey grunt in such a light, small car made for a very fun package.
continued →
