May 18th, 2012
The 2013 JCWs have been announced with the new valvtronic engine. Surprisingly, outside of the Countryman, the JCW range will not have higher output. The HP figure will remain at 211 hp (208 for the US) for the R5X range of JCW cars. Furthermore we’ve heard rumors from well placed sources that the US spec JCW Countryman may also end up with 208 hp rather than the higher 218hp figure seen in Europe. The upside is that the 2013 JCW will be the most efficient JCW ever and on par with the substantially less powerful Cooper S thanks to technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration.
Also new for 2013 is the option of the six speed Aisin automatic across the entire JCW range.
Official Release: In keeping with the times, MINI will inject the ultra-sporty performance characteristics of its John Cooper Works models with even greater efficiency from July 2012 with the introduction of a new-generation engine and other far-reaching powertrain innovations. Fresh from an intensive course of further development, the twin-scroll turbo engine develops the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor, but will make drivers’ hearts beat faster with its even quicker responses and stoke their admiration with substantially reduced fuel consumption and emissions. A much broader spread of MINIMALISM technology helps to enhance the efficiency of the John Cooper Works models, and all members of the sub-brand’s line-up can now be fitted as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox. Added to which, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman comes with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard. continued →
May 17th, 2012
Last week we brought you the history of the modern JCW Tuning kit. Now that history is getting a new chapter. As expected JCW Engine Kit is coming to the R58 Coupe and R59 Roadster later this year. As for all other models, the kit will be a dealer installed accessory with a cost of around $2,100 (not including installation).
The tuning kit will be the same 197 hp (200 bhp) kit found in other MINIs with 199 lb-ft of over boost between 1,800 and 5,000 rpm.
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Apr 18th, 2012
More than any MINI in recent history the Roadster is a car that needs personal contact to fully understand it’s value proposition. It happened to us the first time we saw the car. In person, its proportions and aggressively angled windshield combine to give the car a sleek and simple look that’s almost undeniably attractive and interesting. You can’t help but want to look at it closer.
While we can’t bring the car to you, we can give you the biggest Roadster photo gallery in the existence of the known universe. It also serves as a primer for a car that you’ll be seeing much more on this site as we gear up to take delivery of our long-term Roadster test car this June.
So kick back, grab a beverage and check out the galleries after the break.
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Apr 11th, 2012
Last week we posted photos of MINI’s latest environmental advertising installation — a “peep show” for the new MINI Roadster. Well as per usual with this sort of thing, pics are great, but video is better. Hit the jump for completely SFW topless action. continued →
Apr 3rd, 2012
Think the new MINI Roadster is sexy? You’re not alone. Residents in Hollywood are being enticed this week to take a peep at MINI’s newest topless model. Replete with double entendre, this latest bit of environmental advertising is one in a long line of such stunts put on by MINI USA. At least you don’t have to put in a quarter.
[Official Release] Enhancing its reputation as a fun-loving, cheeky, and often mischievous brand, MINI is revealing its new Roadster model in a racy, alluring way at a prime Los Angeles location. continued →
Mar 27th, 2012
The highly anticipated Recaro seat option will be unavailable for the Coupe and Roadster during the month of April. This is due to a subtle tweak in the design of the stand-alone post/pivot for the seatbelt due to potential wear issues.
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Feb 20th, 2012
Last week we asked you to help us design and spec MotoringFile’s new MINI Roadster. And after 12 hours and over a thousand votes were cast and counted we have a definitive winner. The Angry Midnight Black JCW that we created won with over 500 votes cast for a total of 47% of the vote. So why was this particular design so popular? And what makes it special? Let’s take a closer look at the car, the options and the results. continued →
