Sections: JCW GP, MTTS, R55 (Clubman) Jun 5th, 2012 9 Comments 
More details about MINI TAKES THE STATES 2012 have been released. Earlier we let you know about registrations. We have learned that they have increased capacity at most of the events along the way, so if you encountered a problem registering for something specific, please try again!
Sections: JCW, Official News, R55 (Clubman), R56 (Hatch), R57 (Conv.), R58 (Coupe), R59 (Roadster), R60 (Countryman) May 18th, 2012 32 Comments 
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 →
Sections: R55 (Clubman) Apr 20th, 2012 15 Comments 
We’ve just received confirmation that the Clubman-based MINI “Clubvan” concept we saw at Geneva earlier this year is in fact headed for real world production. Additionally, we’ll see the stylish little hauler make its way state-side. First heard at Car and Driver and now confirmed by our sources, we expect the Clubvan to go on-sale sometime in the 2nd half of 2012.
No word yet on pricing, but you can expect everyone from your local florist to the occasional repairman adding this MINI to their service fleet — their branding stretching from one end to the other.
Sections: Auto Shows, R55 (Clubman), R60 (Countryman) Mar 7th, 2012 21 Comments 
To put it plainly MINI at Geneva this year is all about the Clubvan and the MINI Countryman JCW. And clearly the JCW CM is the star of the show. In person the car looks lower and meaner than in photos. Specifically the 19″ wheels give the car better proportions and fill out the wheel wells much more appropriately. But we’ll let you be the judge.
Click through for photos and give us your thoughts. continued →
Sections: R55 (Clubman) Feb 6th, 2012 9 Comments 
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).
Sections: R55 (Clubman), R56 (Hatch), R57 (Conv.), R60 (Countryman), Recalls/Campaigns Jan 15th, 2012 51 Comments 
(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… continued →
Sections: R55 (Clubman) Dec 30th, 2011 17 Comments 
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. continued →
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