As we reported almost a year ago, several of our sources have indicated that MINI USA is currently planning to bring at least one diesel model to the US. We believe this model incorporate the “SD” version of the BMW Group 2.0L diesel engine that produces 143hp and a healthy 225 lf-ft of torque in EU spec. What does that translate into? In the current R56 hatch it means 8.1 seconds 0-60 and efficiency anywhere from 57-65 mpg on the Euro cycle. That translates into something likely close to 50 mpg on the highway for the R56 and, likely 5-7 mpg less for the Countryman. All told pretty astounding efficiency with very respectable performance.
But if it comes, it will at a price. We’d expect the premium over the standard Cooper S to be anywhere from $2,000 to $3,000 – at least. And we also expect it to be available on the Countryman and Paceman exclusively with the 3 cylinder petrol powered F56 Cooper returning similar efficiency figures.
So with those numbers in mind, is a diesel MINI something you’d consider if you’re in the US? Would you pay for more efficiency with added torque?
At 211hp, the JCW GP isn’t setting any records for output from a 1.6L turbocharged four cylinder engine. Not that it’s pitiful, but many of you obviously expected the “ultimate MINI” to achieve greater power figures. How many of you feel that way? Let MINI hear your voice.
Does the JCW GP Have Adequate Power Output at 211 hp (218 EU)?
Yes. MINI & JCW should be about handling and not high power outputs (30%, 186 Votes)
No. JCW is being left behind by rivals that cost less, perform similarly and produce substantially more power (70%, 441 Votes)
For the first time ever MINI will be offering the six speed Aisin sourced automatic in the JCW. They first showed it in the JCW Countryman but we fully expect it to move across the JCW range to all models in time for the 2013 model year this September.
This is essentially the same six speed auto that MINI debuted in the 2005 Cooper S and is currently found across the MINI range. In the past we’ve panned it has mediocre and a easy way to sap some soul out of the motoring experience. But a funny thing we happened. MINI has slowly been improving the auto through updated and enhanced software. They haven’t worked miracles but they have made it less confused, quicker to react and overall a little smarter. continued →
(This poll is now closed. Look for more info soon).
You may have noticed in our recent review of the MINI Roadster that we were completely smitten. For the first time ever MINI has created an open top car that combines open-top motoring with and similar performance to the hard top MINI. It’s a thoroughly intoxicating mix of back to basics motoring combined with modern design and performance that left us wanting more. Or more specifically wanting a roadster in our garage. So we figured what better car for our next long-term MINI than a new 2012 Roadster?
All we had to do was convince MINI USA. To do that we simply told them how much fun our readers would have in helping us design and build it. They said sure – as long as we could give them a full spec by end of day… today (February 15th). continued →
With the release of the Coupe and the introduction of the Roadster, it’s a great time to step back and look at the MINI family. And with that, we can’t help but wonder which we’d have if given the chance. While we love the Countryman All4 in our driveway, a Coupe or even a roadster would look great in the MF garage. Then there’s the incredible utility of the Clubman or even the classic hatch. But enough about what we think. What’s your favorite MINI of the moment?
Two years ago we asked you a simple question. Roadster or Coupe? At the time they were just concepts. But that didn’t stop opinion from being incredibly divided. And when we say divided we mean not only were there strong opinions but it was split down the middle exactly 50/50. In fact well after over 1,000 of you voted there was only 10 votes separating the two.
So now that both cars have been shown in full production form, we wanted to revisit the question and see if opinions have changed.
Which would you have? All things (price) being equal, which would you prefer to have in your driveway? Find out more about the differences after the break.
1st Gen MINI R50: One & MC Hatch R52: All 1st Gen MINI Convt. R53: MCS Hatch 2nd Gen MINI R55: Clubman R56: Hatch R57: Convertible R58: Coupe R59: Roadster R60: MINI Crossover R61: MINI Crossover Coupe 3rd Gen MINI F54: Clubman F55: Five Door Hatch F56: Hatch F57: Convertible F60: MINI Crossover F58: Traveller
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Sections: Diesel, MF Poll Jan 3rd, 2013 59 Comments 
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