In MINI’s quest to make the JCW line more recognizable, they’ll finally be adding the JCW aero-kit as standard to the JCW Clubman. The change will begin with March production. The subtle design tweaks to the aero-kit that we saw with the factory introduction of the R56 aero-kit will be carried through to the Clubman – including silver trim around the grille (the same as other factory JCW aero-kits and not what you see above).

With this change the Clubman will also see the same JCW package available across the rest of the R5X models. The package comes with the aero-kit, red interior stitching on the wheel, shift and e-brake boots.

This is yet another step in making the JCW line stand out among the sea of standard MINIs on dealer lots. But according to sources it won’t be the last – even with the current generation of cars.

(Updated with detailed information) In perhaps the largest recall ever announced, MINI USA is recalling every Cooper S and JCW model sold from 2007 to 2011. The recall effects almost all 2007 – 2011 R55, R56, R57 and R60 models with the turbocharged Cooper S engine. For a full list of the cars affected and the specifics behind the problem, read on…

The Issue

The issue involves the electric auxiliary water pump on models that are equipped with the N14 turbo engine. The auxiliary pump is controlled electronically by an engine control unit. After switching off the engine, the electric auxiliary water pump conducts heat away from the turbocharger.

Under certain conditions, the pump’s electronic circuit board can malfunction. The malfunction can occur as a result of certain design features in combination with high operating temperatures.

If the water pump can fails, there’s a slight chance that the circuit board can overheat. And in an extreme case, overheating of the circuit board can lead to smoldering of the water pump. If smoldering occurs, this may also lead to an engine compartment or vehicle fire.

Models Affected

Here’s the full list of Cooper S models affected:

2007-11 / Cooper S (Dec 2006 – Oct 2010)

2008-11 / Cooper S Clubman (Dec 2007 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / Cooper S Convertible (Dec 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) (Jun 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) Clubman (Jun 2008 – Oct 2010)

2009-11 / John Cooper Works (JCW) Convertible (Apr 2009 – Oct 2010)

2011 / Cooper S Countryman (Nov 2010 – Jan 2011)

How can you tell if this is happening to your MINI? The first tip-off will be a plastic burning smell, or burning and/or smoke from the front of the vehicle may be noticed.

What Should I Do While I Wait for MINI to Notify me of a Fix?

First you can continue to drive your car. However MINI recommends parking your vehicle outdoors until repairs have been performed. Those who own affected cars will receive a letter asking them to have this service performed by their authorized MINI dealer, do so as soon as possible.

What’s Next?

At this point MINI is fixing all cars in its inventory and will be announcing a formal recall shortly. Any new or pre-owned MINI in dealers inventory will be held until the recall can be completed, but customer cars are not yet being held and the recall repair will not be happening until the service bulletin is released.

The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into the cars after 12 engine fires had been reported including five that destroyed the cars entirely. In eight of the 12 cases, the fires occurred when the cars were parked and turned off.

We’ll have more as we get it…

According to a report by German publication Auto Motor und Sport, MINI intends on showing a cargo van version of the current Clubman in late February at the Geneva Motor Show. The concept (which could be very close to production) reportedly will feature two seats and a flat load floor. Gone are the typical rear windows and in their place sheet metal for greater safety and reduced cost.

Rumor has it MINI wants to bring the version of the Clubman to market as a way to capture commercial sales in Europe that are currently not served by the MINI brand. It’s unknown whether or not MINI intends to import the car to the North American market.

With MINI adding the Recaro seating option along with the Roadster to the production line at Oxford, we’ll be seeing availability of some options ending with March production. Specifically Laguna Green (just introduced in September) and Laser Blue will be ending production. In addition Hot Chocolate will become unavailable on the convertible. But colors are just the start.

MINI will be phasing out the venerable Web Spoke wheels except for the newer black and polished lip combination that came out a couple of years ago. Also going away will be the Pace spokes which are the standard 17″ wheel that comes on the Clubman with the sport package (in the US). They’re also one of our favorite 17″ wheels MINI has ever produced. In fact, aside of the JCW Challenge spokes, we can’t think of a wheel we’d hate to see go more.

Finally MINI will be ending production of the rarely chosen Hot Chocolate top on the R57 Convertible. Not surprising since Hot Chocolate as an exterior paint color will be going away at the same time.

After years of US MINI fans asking for them, MINI USA has finally made the business case work and will be bringing a Recaro seat option to the US. The seats will be available on the R55 Clubman, R56 Hatch, R58 Coupe and R59 Roadster (i.e. not the Countryman or Convertible). The seats will come only in one configuration; heated finished in black Dinamica and Leather.

Now let’s talk pricing. (more pics after the break)

The Recaro Seats (known as option 4FA) will retail for $3,000 on Cooper models and $2750 on MCS and JCWs. Again that includes the price of the heated seat as well. The option will be available starting with March 2012 builds.

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?

Gallery after the break.

Gallery

When MINI released the R56 JCW we all groaned at the lack of visual differentiation. And while MINI has eventually fixed that issue with the 2012 models, there are still three years of JCW out there that, for all intents and purposes, don’t look any different than a Cooper S. This is particularly an issue when trying to find one used. I recently had a senior editor of a very large automotive website ask me for help in the JCW quest and I was blown away at how hard the process had become. I told him not to give up because the JCW was definitely the one you’ll want. But it takes patience and just the right amount of arcane MINI knowledge to find a real JCW.

As enthusiasts know, it’s not always easy to look for used cars on the web due to misleading descriptions. Often I leave it up to the photos to tell me the real story about the car. When it comes to the JCW, even that can be tricky. So what’s the secret?

Here are a few MotoringFile approved tips for all those looking at used R56 JCW. Hopefully these help you find the real-deal.

• Look for the wheels. JCWs came with a set of silver 17″ Challenge Spokes until 2010 when black also became optional. However note that I’ve seen more than one used JCW stripped of it’s Challenge Spokes by a previous (and greedy) owner sitting in a car lot.
• The massive red calipers of the Brembo four pot JCW brakes should be peeking through the front wheels. You can differentiate these from the aftermarket as they are the shape of the MINI wing logo. Although its worth noting dealers sell these as kits that easily bolt onto any R5X MINI.
• The JCW grille badge should be placed on the lower left side of the lower front grille. Around back there should be no mention of the word “Cooper”. Instead just a surf-board shaped JCW badge on the right side of the boot.
• Inside there should be a cheap looking plastic checkered flag sticker stuck to the right side of the dashboard. Surprisingly it’s legit.
• From 2008 to 2010 the red shift pattern was exclusive on the JCW.
• From 2011 on JCW offered a chili red roof on all R55 and R56 JCWs. Take rates have been low but it’s an easy way to spot a thoughtfully appointed JCW.
• From 2011 on JCW offered exclusive dark background gauges that make the interior much more distinctive (especially given MINI’s goal speedometer).

In the years ahead one of the most frustrating things used JCW shoppers will find is the proliferation of the JCW Pack. In 2011 MINI starting offering what they call the JCW Package which adds the JCW Aerokit, above mentioned Challenge wheels, JCW door sills and even the shift knob with the red shift pattern.

Why did they offer the look of the JCW without the go? It was a business case issue. Because JCWs hadn’t sold in the numbers they hoped for (perhaps because there was no visual differentiation) MINI couldn’t rely on JCW sales alone to make adding the aero-kit to the factory profitable.

And all of this meant another thing – depreciation. Yet the fact that JCWs don’t hold their value is a boon to anyone looking for one on the used car market. In fact the more I looked and the more I got into it, I realized that a used R56 JCW is probably one of the best used car buys for the enthusiast today. If you can find a real one.

First it was the hatch. Then the convertible. Fast-forward ten years and we have what you see above; an entire family of MINI options. With the launch of the last R56 variant MINI thought it was appropriate to get them all together for one big family photo. We can’t blame them. But we also thought it was time to celebrate just a bit. So we’re offering you an ultra hi-res version of the photo above as the ultimate MINI desktop wallpaper. Now the real question: which is your favorite MINI?

Check it out (along with more photos) after the break

Wallpaper

Hi-res JPG Download (1mb – right click and choose save file as or save link as)

Gallery

Yahoo! Autos has a story today featuring what vehicles car thieves tend to leave alone. Among the least popular boosted rides is the MINI Cooper Clubman. Not only is the instance of theft low, the reported average insurance claim payout is considerably lower than the rest of the list. This isn’t too surprising. Given all the electronics in the MINI’s ignition systems, you pretty much can’t steal a MINI without the keys or a tow truck. So rest assured, your Clubman is unlikely to go anywhere without you.

Good catch, db!

MINI Yours is introducing two exclusive colors for 2012 that will be available on all MINIs coming out of the Oxford Plant. MINI Yours (MIIN’s high-end line of factory options and dealer accessories) will be available a la carte with one caveat, that you order the MINI Yours side Scuttle. By ordering that one part you unlock the entire MINI Yours catalogue of exclusive options. And of course three of those options are two different exterior paints. See the rundown after the break.

• Laguna Green / Based on the Laguna Green found in many BMWs from the 1990s. It’s also similar to the green on the Paceman concept car but with more blue in it.
• Highclass Grey / A deep grey with hints of brown

And as you’d expect, each are metallic and are meant to work well with the various MINI Yours exterior and interior options.

Big thanks to Jon for the image seen above and Craig for a correction.

Note: colors above appear more washed out than normal due to lighting. Especially Laguna Green.

The model year 2012 is here and MINI USA has a number of changes and refinements that are well worth noting for anyone looking at buying a MINI. Ok it’s actually more exciting than that. Let me start over. The 2012 MINI is simply the best R55 R56 or R57 produced to date. Why? The changes have either been years in the making (JCW additions) or carefully crafted additions based on your feedback. Let’s take a look at the details including options, packages, MINI Yours and JCW (after the break).

Some of the biggest changes are several color combination restrictions being liftedallowing you to order some pretty interesting combos. Want a Spice Orange car with the Classic Green Lounge Leather and Hot Chocolate Color Line? Easy. Just order it and wait for mouths to drop (and foreheads to be slapped).

New or Changes 2012 Options

R56 and R57 Hatch and Convertible

• Horizon Blue (A93) has been discontinued and will be replaced with Lightning Blue (A63.)

R57 Convertible

• New option 4C9, Interior Surface Pepper White, replaces 318, Interior Surfaces Body Color.

R55 Clubman

• You can now get the lower C-pillars in body color with option 321 for Laser Blue, White Silver, BRG II, Eclipse Gray and Pepper White. The Upper C pillars will always be black with option 321.

R55 and R56 Clubman and Hatch

• New standard wheel for Cooper models is the 15” 7-Hole wheel, replacing the 5-Star Spooler (yes the holey is back!)

R55, R56, R57 and R60

• New option 4NA, is an interior mirror with a digital compass. It requires 319, UGDO.

R55, R56 and R57 Clubman, Hatch and Convertible

• FTGW Cross Check Cloth/Leather in Polar Beige will be now available on all body styles. T9GK Satellite Gray Lounge Leather has been released for all models. FKE1 Carbon Black Cloth/Leather is now released.

MINI USA Package Changes

The big news in packages is that the Convenience Package and Value Package are gone. The Premium Package will now combine the best of what used to be in 2011’s ZPP and ZCV.

Premium Package / Retail

• Anti-theft alarm system / $500
• Comfort Access / $500
• Chrome line interior / $250
• Auto-dimming rearview mirror / $250
• Rain Sensor and Daylight Function / $250

• Automatic Air Conditioning / $500

• Itemized Value / $2,250

• Package Price / $1750
• Discount / 22%

The big change here is that there is no longer a sunroof offered in the package. Instead it will be available as a stand-alone option and will remain at $1,000. In addition, the harman/kardon stereo upgrade is now a part of MINI USA’s newly- created Technology Package. Auto A/C remains and the rest of the items are new to Premium.

According to MINI USA the reason for this new content is to prepare for the upcoming Coupe and Roadster. Within a year MINI will have three products in the lineup that would have required their own dedicated Premium Packages. The idea was to precent confusion and simply the offering to one Premium Pack that would work on all MINI models.

The other new package is Technology Package. The package follows a similar pattern BMW has used for years by packaging up many of the more interesting technology related options in one mammoth kit. With one big addition, it’s all discounted. The package can also be upgraded to option 7L5 for only $750 more, furthering the value.

Technology Package / Retail

• Center armrest / $250
• Park Distance Control (rear) / $500
• Harman-Kardon sound system / $750
• MINI Connected / $1,000
• Itemized Value / $2,000
• Package Price / $1750
• Discount / 22%

Or you could go with option 7L5 MINI Connected with Navigation +$750 / $2,500

MINI JCW for 2012

The JCW Pack that was introduced with 03/2011 builds isn’t changing. However there are some small 2012 details worth mentioning. When you order the JCW Package for a Cooper or Cooper S with manual trans, you get red stitching on the steering wheel, shift lever boot and the parking brake handle boot. When you combine this package with Automatic transmission, you keep the red-stitched steering wheel but cannot get shift paddles. The shift boot and parking brake boot then lose the red stitching.

The big news for the 2012 model year is that John Cooper Works Hardtop and Convertible will comes standard with the JCW aero kit at the factory. However, it will take a bit more time than MINI expected to ensure a perfect integration at Plant Oxford, so the kit will not arrive until November 2011 production. This means that the 2012 John Cooper Works Hardtop and Convertible will not be available for ordering until the November allocation opens.

On the other hand, the John Cooper Works Clubman will not have the JCW Aero kit, so there is no delay in production or ordering the R55 JCW.

MINI Yours

For 2012 MINI Yours is debuting throughout the world. But what does that mean for the US?

It means MINI taking customization to the next level. WIth Yours MINI will be introducing a more premium and very exclusive series of options from upholstery, interior surfaces and an exterior color that can had together in a MINI Yours exterior package, or a la carte. Either way, you’ll need option code 3BY, the MINI Yours side scuttle, before you order anything else. Sounds odd but apparently it’s the one requirement for any MINI Yours options.

MINI Yours interior options include an Instrument panel covered in a smooth two-tone soft-touch leather that has exposed stitching. Then there’s option 4L5 gives you sumptuous Black and Satellite Gray while 4L6 gives you luxurious Black and Polar Beige.

But don’t forget the 2XB; a two-tone leather steering wheel that is probably the best MINI’s ever offered. Unfortunately (or fortunately for you manual snobs) it’s not available with shift paddles.

Then there’s “Soda”. A line of MINI Yours patterns that will be part of the new options. On the outside, the new 17” wheel, 2GE, MINI Yours 17” alloy wheel, can be had on all Cooper and Cooper S models. The MINI Yours Soda mirror caps (3A6) have a three-dimensional effect done solely via printing. On the MINI Yours Soda Lounge Leather (T2GK) the unique Soda pattern appears on the sides of the backrests and headrests. A contrasting black leather stripes runs down the middle of the seats as well and these are offset with a premium piping. Expect pricing to be slightly more than that of the “regular” Lounge Leather.

2012 Pricing

MINI Countryman Changes for 2012? Look for that info shortly…

Today MINI has not only taken the wraps off of the new Coupe but also released final 2012 pricing. And yes that include all models of the Coupe. Full rundown after the break.

Official Pricing

Equipment / Technology Changes for 2012

In regards to model year updates versus 2011, changes for the MINI Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman and Countryman models will be related to customization.

MINI Yours debuts in 2012MY, which is a more premium and very exclusive series of options from upholstery, interior surfaces and exterior colors that can be purchased as a package or as individual options. MINI Yours interior options include:

• An instrument panel covered in a smooth two-tone soft-touch leather that has exposed stitching
• Two-tone leather steering wheel
• The new MINI Yours 17” alloy wheel – on all Cooper and Cooper S models
• MINI Yours pattern “Soda” mirror caps, which have a three-dimensional effect
• MINI Yours Soda pattern Lounge Leather, where the unique Soda pattern appears on the sides of the backrests and headrests, and a contrasting black leather stripe runs down the middle of the seats and is offset with a premium piping

Cosmopolitan floormats will be standard on all MINI models sold in the US.

Specific Color / Option Changes by Model

All JCW Models

The model year 2012 John Cooper Works Hardtop and Convertible will be equipped standard with the JCW aero kit.

MINI Clubman

The lower C-pillars are now available in body color for Laser Blue, White Silver, British Racing Green II, Eclipse Gray and Pepper White.

MINI Hardtop and Clubman

New standard wheel for Cooper models is the 15” 7-Hole wheel, replacing the 5-Star Spooler.

MINI Hardtop, Convertible, Clubman and Countryman

A new option is an interior mirror with a digital compass.

MINI Hardtop, Convertible and Clubman

Cross Check Cloth/Leather in Polar Beige will be now available on all body styles, along with Satellite Gray Lounge Leather and Carbon Black Cloth/Leather.

With calendar summer about to officially start, it’s time to start looking forward to the 2012 MINI lineup and pricing for this coming fall. We’ve received updated pricing information for the various MINI models, as well as some package changes. As of this posting, our information is still incomplete, but here’s what we know so far.

2012 MINI Cooper Hardtop, Clubman and Convertible Pricing

The base price for the R56/R55/R57 will all rise by $100 each, but will now include floor mats as standard. That pushes the base prices to $20,200/$21,900/$25,650 for the Cooper engine class in the Hardtop, Clubman and Convertible respectively.

2112 MINI Cooper S John Cooper Works

The full JCW car will jump $700 over its current price to $30,500, making it the first MINI (not counting low-number special editions like the GP or WC50) with a base price above the $30k mark. However, taking into account that the price bump (finally) includes the JCW Aero Kit (as of November) and floor mats ($100), you’re in essence getting the Aero Kit for a mere $600. That’s a great deal, and the JCW car is finally getting the visual distinction it deserves.

Package Changes

Two significant changes to the MINI USA packages will come for 2012. The first is in the Premium Package, which will trade the Dual Pane Sunroof for Park Distance Control and the Chrome Line Interior. Why the change? MINI has two flavors of hardtop now. There’s the conventional rooflines in the Hardtop, Clubman and Countryman that can accept the sunroof. Then there’s the new Coupe, which cannot. Rather than having to keep track of two separate premium packages, the sunroof becomes an ala cart option.

The 2012 model year will also see the addition of a new package: the Technology Package. Our information is incomplete at this point, but we do know that this package will include at least Bluetooth integration, the center arm rest and MINI Connected. No word yet on pricing or what else may be included in this new bundle.

Here’s the full break-down:

Premium Package: $1750 (similar to the old convenience package) - Anti-Theft Alarm System - comfort access - chrome lined interior - autodimming rear view mirror - rain sensor and auto headlights - auto climate control

Technology package $2000 - Armrest - Park Distance Control - Harmon Kardon Stereo - MINI connected - Add Navigation to package for $750

For those who don’t read the comments, there was some interesting chatter the other day between frequent MotoringFile commenter and BMW insider Herr26. He gave us some interesting information on some future MINI variants. Specifically, Herr26 mentions the future of the Paceman, the next generation of the Clubman and the as yet unseen Spacebox (aka MINI MAT). Considering Herr’s comments are almost always spot on they’re probably worth repeating here for those who may have missed them.

The MINI (MAT) is the genesis of the Spacebox concept – some have dubbed MINI caveman because of it’s “cavernous” space in the interior (hah-hah) . But if you want to give it it’s final market term it will be called the MINI Traveller – It’s an ingenious concept – a MINI with more passenger flexibility. It is effectively a larger Clubman , with the next Clubman taking on a more sporting “Shooting Brake” style.

The MINI Paceman has developed into a more sportier looking vehicle with rear hinged “activity” doors making the car a full five door. but still keeping that dynamic sloping roof at the rear. The front of the car has changed and is following the next generation of MINI’s with the headlights for example instead of the placement on the front wings or slightly pushed in on the R56. The next generation of MINI illustrates it’s evolutionary traits by having them cut into the front of the car and raked further into the wings to give a really sporty impression.

We definitely like the sound of a sporty, AWD Paceman with even more aggressive lines. Most interesting is the description of the future Clubman. Many have wondered how the Paceman and Clubman can co-exist  without being too redundant. A longer shooting brake style Clubman could have almost a MINI Coupé fastback rear end and (according to Herr and other sources) could be based on the next generation MINI (the F56) and not the R60 Countrymam. This would give the Clubman a sport wagon profile possibly in the vein of the best shooting brakes over the years.

If you follow us on Twitter you may have already seen the news. As part of an effort to further differentiate the sub-brand’s cars from standard MINIs, MINI AG is making the JCW aerokit standard across the entire range of JCW cars. It’s a move we have called for since 2007 and we applaud MINI for finally making the right decision. So what took so long. According to sources it was plant capacity. Once MINI ditched the optional aerokit tyat launched with tue car in 2007 there was room to move the JCW kit to the plant. Albiet with some changes that allow for simplier installation. In addition to that the front splitter on tue Coupe has been lengthened a few millimeters for a more aggressove look.

Look for 2012 production to start in August of this year.

Historically we haven’t minced words when it comes to the factory “MINI aero-kit”. We’ve never been fond of the look. And apparently we weren’t alone. Even if MINI didn’t see the negative comments on it over the years on MF they have now seen the numbers. Yes sales have been much less than anticipated and MINI has made a change. Starting with March production the “MINI Aero-kit” (as it was confusingly known) will be replaced at the factory by the JCW Aero-kit.

What does this mean for those looking to buy a MINI? For starters the JCW Aero-kit should get less expensive. Currently the “MINI aerokit” can be had for $1250 via the factory. The JCW aerokit lists for $1961 before painting and installation.

It also means a better looking MINI. But I guess that’s obvious right?

There’s no word on how (if it all) this will change the JCW model as we know it.

We scooped this last week and now MINI is officially taking the wraps off of the latest special edition MINI. The Hampton takes some of the best of other models and combines them with a few new key pieces to create something unique on the Clubman. The model will be available starting with March production and should run through August production.

Official Release: As a pioneer and one-off in the premium small car segment, MINI offers an options range unmatched in its variety to allow customers to configure their car exactly how they want it. Customers can choose from a large selection of exterior paint finishes, light-alloy wheels, upholstery variants, interior trim and Colour Lines, MINI-specific options such as mirror caps and graphics, and numerous other optional extras and accessories, to make every MINI a one-off creation designed in detail to reflect their own individual style. From spring 2011 MINI will open up another new avenue when it comes to the ultra-stylish customisation of the brand’s cars. The MINI Yours range of products will feature exclusive design options delivered from the factory for the exterior and interior of the current range of MINI models. Among the features of the MINI Yours range are unusual paint finishes, upholstery variants and interior colours, stylishly configured equipment packages and limited editions based on the now four model series in the MINI family. (Full gallery after the break)

An exclusive variant of the MINI Clubman takes centre stage for the premiere of MINI Yours. The MINI Clubman Hampton special-edition model embodies the character of MINI Yours – underpinned by uncompromising premium quality and design cues typical of the brand – in a highly concentrated form. Its design features reference both the brand’s British heritage and the special edition’s unique designation, inspired by the southwest London suburb. At the same time, the first limited-edition variant of the MINI Clubman continues a tradition established by successful editions of earlier models. For example, the Park Lane, Seven, Checkmate and Sidewalk editions of the MINI offered customers particularly neat ways to satisfy their desire for exclusive configurations.

The MINI Clubman Hampton is painted in the Reef Blue metallic shade developed specially for this model. The roof and surrounds for the special edition’s rear doors are silver, as are the wheels and Colour Line. The exterior colours Pepper White, Midnight Black and Eclipse Grey can be specified as an option, while Black and Reef Blue are available as contrast colours for the roof and C-pillars. The light-alloy wheels in Twin Blade Spoke design can be ordered in silver or black with a dark red trim ring. The headlights come with black reflectors if the optional xenon units are specified. A logo on the B-pillar and “Hampton” lettering on the side indicator surrounds and radiator grille provide subtle references to the car’s exclusive status. The “MINI 50 Hampton” lettering on the door entry strips recalls the introduction five decades ago of an additional bodywork version of the classic MINI, which today ranks as the historic predecessor of the MINI Clubman.

The interior of the MINI Clubman Hampton also boasts a very distinctive style. An “H” on the seat tags, red edging and orange contrast stitching are the identifying features of the black Lounge Leather seats. The anthracite-coloured roof liner, the likewise anthracite dials of the rev counter and the speedometer on the Centre Speedo also contribute to the model’s special ambience. The Centre Speedo is bordered by a trim ring in matt dark red, like that on the wheels. The Chilli Pack is also included in the MINI Clubman Hampton, adding items such as a sports leather steering wheel, foglamps, automatic climate control, an on-board computer, a light package, a storage package and special velour floor mats in the style of the special-edition model.

This exclusive special edition will be available for the MINI Cooper Clubman, MINI Cooper S Clubman, MINI Cooper D Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Clubman. Production of the MINI Clubman Hampton will be limited to one year.

Full Gallery

[Show as slideshow]

Today MINI officially takes the wraps off of one of the worst kept secrets in the companies history; the Cooper SD. We’ve seen the engine and hear about the car as far back as 2009. Today we get the official word that this 2.0L engine (the largest ever offered in a MINI) will be available starting in March of this year across the entire line-up.

With a 143 hp on tap and an 225 lb-ft of torque, the Cooper SD does 0-60 well under 8 seconds while still getting around 54 mpg US. Of course the US market won’t be getting this version of the MINI (reasoning detailed here) but will show up in most markets around the world.

Official Release: Just a few months after the market launch of the new MINI family and the MINI Countryman, the start of 2011 has brought another wave of driving fun and individuality in the premium brand’s hallmark style. The MINI Cooper SD, due for launch in spring 2011, will be the most powerful diesel variant yet in the MINI line-up. The new 2.0-litre engine developing 105 kW/143 hp – available for the MINI, MINI Clubman, MINI Convertible and MINI Countryman – will drum up even more power yet burn extremely small amounts of fuel. Motor sport enthusiasts will welcome the new John Cooper Works Pack option also on offer for the MINI and MINI Convertible.

Furthermore, the customary selection of personalisation options available for drivers to configure their MINI in their own image has taken on even greater proportions. The newly developed MINI Yours product range offers a host of extremely attractive customisation options. The first ambassador of the exclusive and innovative MINI Yours style will be the MINI Clubman Hampton special edition.

MINI Cooper SD: Impressive on the power, frugal at the pumps.

The new MINI Cooper SD slots into the range above the MINI One D with 66 kW/90 hp and MINI Cooper D developing 82 kW/112 hp as the most powerful diesel MINI. Its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel unit produces maximum output of 105 kW/143 hp at 4,000 rpm. A stand-out characteristic of the new diesel is its mighty pulling power, which remains on tap even under heavy loads; maximum torque of 305 Newton metres (225 lb-ft) is available between 1,750 and 2,700 rpm. Add this to the excellent balance between output and fuel consumption familiar from the other models in the MINI family plus extraordinary power development for a four-cylinder engine, and the MINI Cooper SD has all the tools the sporty driver could ever need.

In its basic construction, the new 2.0-litre diesel fits the same template as the 1.6-litre units fitted in the MINI One D and MINI Cooper D. Its all-aluminium crankcase helps to keep the weight of the engine as low as possible, while the turbocharger with variable intake geometry develops the right level of power at all engine speeds. The engine in the MINI Cooper SD has a model-specific and extremely powerful turbocharger controlled by the engine management system, while common-rail direct injection with solenoid-valve injectors positioned centrally in the cylinder head ensure that the fuel is fed in extremely precisely and efficiently. The injection system works with maximum pressure of 1,600 bar and ensures optimum mixture preparation in the combustion chamber.

The new MINI Cooper SD is also fitted as standard with an extensive range of MINIMALISM technology. In addition to the engine’s efficiency, features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display, Electric Power Steering and the need-based operation of ancillary components help to produce outstanding fuel economy for this output class.

To ensure that its emissions are as clean as possible, the MINI Cooper SD is fitted with a diesel particulate filter and an oxidation catalytic converter. No extra injections of fuel are required to clean the particulate filter. And, as with all current MINI models, the new diesel variants meet the EU5 exhaust emissions standard. Comfort levels on the move, meanwhile, are aided by the four-cylinder engine’s low vibrations and harmonious acoustic properties; here, the particularly sonorous soundtrack of the MINI Cooper SD unit when pushing on through higher revs lifts it above its two diesel stablemates.

The 2.0-litre powerplant demonstrates its sporting credentials in the MINI Cooper SD with acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 8.1 seconds and a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). This outstanding level of efficiency is reflected in average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 4.3 litres per 100 kilometres (65.7 mpg imp or 54 mpg US) and CO2 emissions of 114 grams per kilometre. The new MINI Cooper SD Clubman reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from a standstill in 8.6 seconds and also has a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). The average fuel economy of the MINI Cooper SD Clubman is 4.4 litres per 100 km (64.2 mpg imp or 53 US mpg), while CO2 emissions stand at 115 g/km. The MINI Cooper SD Convertible, meanwhile, highlights its sporting potential with a 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 8.7 seconds and a maximum speed of 210 km/h (130 mph). Its extra dose of driving fun combines with average fuel consumption of 4.5 litres per 100 km (62.8 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 118 g/km.

In the MINI Countryman this extra-sporty diesel engine teams up with either front-wheel drive or the all-wheel-drive system MINI ALL4. The MINI Cooper SD Countryman sprints from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 9.3 seconds, the MINI Cooper SD Countryman ALL4 in 9.4 seconds, on the way to top speeds of 198 and 195 km/h (123/121 mph) respectively. The front-wheel-drive MINI Cooper SD Countryman has fuel economy of 4.6 litres per 100 km, the all-wheel-drive variant achieves 4.9 litres per 100 km. CO2 emissions are 122 and 130 grams per kilometre respectively.

The models fitted with the new diesel powerplant come as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, whose ratios are tuned carefully to the engine’s performance characteristics to enable powerful and silky smooth acceleration. A ready-to-drive weight of 44.8 kilograms (98.7 lb) makes this the lightest gearbox of its kind. Added to which, it sets a new benchmark in the MINI segment with its short shift travel and impressively precise action. A six-speed automatic gearbox will also be available from launch as an option. Its exceptionally short shift times and direct “target gear” finding capability on downshifts also allow the automatic to enhance the sporting character of the MINI Cooper SD. The six-speed automatic will also be available for the MINI Cooper D, MINI Cooper D Clubman, MINI Cooper D Convertible and MINI Cooper D Countryman from spring 2011. In the interests of delivering the optimum combination of engine and gearbox, these models will also be powered by a 2.0-litre diesel unit. This variant matches the output and torque of the 1.6-litre engine in the model variants with manual gearbox.

The MINI Cooper SD also uses model-specific design features to show off its sporting credentials. The most powerful diesel model in the range stands out – like the flagship petrol model, the MINI Cooper S – with its extra-large air intake in the front apron and an air scoop on the bonnet. Like the MINI Cooper S, it also displays its model identity in its side indicator surrounds (in its case with “SD” lettering) and has twin tailpipes positioned in the centre of the rear apron. The MINI Cooper SD, MINI Cooper SD Clubman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman also come with an eye-catching roof spoiler.

On Friday, MINI USA Product Manager Vinnie Kung spoke in an interview with MotoringFile about upcoming special editions from MINI. While we’ve leaked some teasers on MF frequent commenter (and BMW insider) Herr26 went ahead and spoiled spilled the rest.

As you can expect this special edition will be treated much like what MINI has done in the past. The car will be called the Hampton and will debut at the Geneva Auto Salon in early March. The edition will show up essentially as a package on the Cooper Cooper D, Cooper S and Cooper SD models (in the US that of course will be the Cooper and Cooper S).

The exterior of the car will feature exclusive Reef Blue metallic paint and exclusive 17″ Twin Spoke alloy wheels with centre caps incorporating a Damson Red lining (wheels in Silver or Black). The bonnet will have Damson Red (new design) strikes and the mirrors caps will be finished with (you guessed it) Damson Red pinstripe. There will be MINI 50 Hampton badging on side scuttles and B-Pillar. Rounding out the package will be a MINI 50 Badge on front grille and Bi-Xenon headlights with black trim

On the inside the car will receive exclusive Lounge leather upholstery in Carbon Black with Damson Red piping and the Anthracite Headlining. The Damson Red pinstripe theme will be carried onto the interior trim, floor matts (with piping and stitching) and the central speedo surround. Speaking of the speedo the center will be finished in grey similar to JCW models. Rounding it out will be a MINI 50 Hampton designation will be on the door sills

The following is a review brought to you by a new contributor at MF Eugene Sanchez.

Before I ventured into the compact turbo world, my daily driver was a Corvette Z06. With a horsepower of 505 out of the box, the car was an animal. Soon, extremely fast wasn’t fast enough, and I craved greater speed. It was time to modify. Six months later and $4000+ lighter, the modification process was well underway. I’d bought headers, a cold air intake and a custom tune. And yet the improvements in performance were barely noticeable. Then one night at 1am, the car and the dream met an untimely death when a young driver barreled through a red light.

Around that time, MINI had released a new turbocharged Cooper S. With some deliberation, I decided to expand my horizons to the compact front wheel drive turbo world. Expecting to get back on the V8 horse a few years later, I opted to pick-up my new hot hatch. I had heard about the tuning potential of turbo for years and was eager to modify this new machine. However it took nearly three years of ownership before what I felt was a worthy tuning solution hit the market. Enter the Alta AccessPort.

I received the AccessPort the day before a long drive from New York to Maryland for some quarter mile fun at Cecil County Raceway. I was excited to see real world numbers on what a tune alone could do to this car. When the box arrived from UPS I stared in amazement of what potential lay in such a tiny package. The unit came preloaded with the maps selected by an Alta technician. The installation of the tune was quick and simple. Eagerly, I packed my luggage and headed off on my journey.

The first thing I noticed was the throttle response which was finally how it should have been from the factory. I’ve never been a fan of the stock throttle response. With the sport button off it felt as if there was severe turbo lag. With the sport button on it felt as if the engineers were trying to exaggerate the turbo kicking in. As someone who takes their car to limits every day on the way to work, I didn’t like the sudden rush of power on the curves which I knew wasn’t actually true power but merely odd throttle mapping. With the tuning kit there are two maps included, one with an instant throttle response and one with a linear throttle response. For me, the linear throttle is such an improvement it’s worth the price of admission alone.

By the time I got to the on ramp for the highway my car was warmed up and it was time to play. First gear, being so short, flew by in an instant; it reminded me of the nearly useless 1st gear of a 911 Turbo. In Second gear, I had time to feel the huge increase in power. Remembering that the redline was now changed I didn’t shift and let it rip up through the RPMs. As I saw the needle swing past the 6,500 redline and continue to pull hard, the grin on my face widened. At around 7,100 I smacked the limiter after pulling out of legal speeds in 3rd gear to nearly 90mph!

Given the gearing and powerband, third gear was the most enjoyable. That annoying little dip in power around 3,000 RPM? Gone. How the car completely runs out of steam and falls on its face at around 5,000RPM? Gone. Do you have that constant frustration in the back of your mind that you didn’t drop the extra several thousand dollars for a JCW? I did and that was now gone as well. The Alta AccessPort transforms the entire vehicle.

After a couple hours of white knuckle driving and concentration on my V1 I decided to test out the gas mileage. Putting the car into 6th gear and cruising down the highway resulted in the same 34 miles per gallon it had before the tune. However, after some time in 6th I realized this tune was going to actually increase my gas mileage. Let me explain. 6th gear is the optimal highway gear but it never really had enough kick for me. Normally, unless it was a very long drive, I would make my highway journey in 5th gear. Now, with the tune, I could happily cruise along in 6th gear because the power gain was so great that a slight increase in throttle would yield more acceleration than 5th would pre-tune.

After several entertaining hours on I95 I arrived in Cecil County. The last time I was here I was reprimanded for going too quickly without a roll cage. Considering performance is relative, I was even more excited about my current attack on the tree of lights. I decided to load the stock tune and get a few runs to find a good base number. After about 5 runs I learned something new about drag racing. The ability to launch a high horsepower rear wheel drive car has nothing to do with the ability to launch a front wheel drive car. To put it simply, I sucked. After a few stock [balding] tired runs the best I could pull with my completely stock setup was a 14.9 at 92MPH. Considering I can’t launch at all but I can shift like lighting, the trap speed really is the more important number which shows the actual power of the vehicle. A 10 minute intermission at the pits and I had the Alta tune ready to fight for its worth.

Again, the difference was staggering. While my launching was far from improved, feeling the car pull through the gears on the sticky track was incredible. After 6 tuned runs all resulting in similar times, I had what I believed to be my best possible run, at my poor front wheel drive skill level. The timeslip read 14.2 at 98MPH. My guess is that most MINI owners are not big drag racers. Let me tell you, over a half a second increase and a 6MPH boost in the quarter mile is a huge gain. You can spend thousands on a naturally aspirated car to achieve the same results you get with the AccessPort alone.

Having never driven a factory John Cooper Works car, I cannot compare the performance. However, judging by my times, I would imagine my MINI is now at least equally as fast. There’s only one way to know for sure. Due to the incredible results of the AccessPort, I’ve decided against getting a GP at the end of my lease and have since ordered a 2011 JCW, which I will not be leasing. Currently, the car is built and waiting for its ride across the Atlantic. If I can get this type of performance from a stock MINI Cooper S, I must try it on a JCW.

One of the many great features of the AccessPort is its ability to adapt to your MINI upgrades be it performance parts or entire cars. While the AccessPort cannot run on two cars at the same time, you can uninstall it from one vehicle and install it onto another. Should you decide to install an intercooler or other performance part, Alta will be there to assist you. E-mail one of their technicians a list of your upgrades and they will send you an updated tune which will make full use of your new modifications. You can see a video of the flash process here.

While performance is clearly the number one selling point of the AccessPort, there are a number of other interesting features. You can find an empty street and record your own 0 to 60 and quarter miles times. I’ve always questioned internal electronic timing devices. The AccessPort was nearly dead on accurate to the results I was getting at the track from the NHRA certified timing gear. In addition, you can read and clear engine codes, log engine data, and easily uninstall the tune for that free maintenance trip to the dealership.

The Alta AccessPort has been a long time coming. Without question, the ultimate second generation MINI performance item is finally here. It is everything it claims to be and more. Right now, the AccessPort is compatible on all 2007 through 2010 Cooper S and John Cooper Works models. With the 2011 cars already on our shores, they will be compatible in the coming months. When that time comes we’ll learn how deep into the 13s a factory John Cooper Works car can go with the AccessPort.

As you’d expect I’d highly recommend this item to anyone who drives a turbocharged MINI. At $895, the “bang for the buck” of this product is nearly unmatched in the automotive world.

Alta AccessPort / MSRP: $895