(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…

Sometimes it’s just nice to be back where you feel most comfortable. Those were my thoughts as I slipped begin the wheel of a lightly spec’d 2012 MINI Cooper S hatch. No this isn’t some chopped coupe or puffed up crossover. This is the car (or at least the shape) that owes more to the original Mini than any other. So much so that BMW simply refers to it as “the MINI” internally.

Our tester came smartly equipped with:

• the Cold Weather pack
• black Conical spoke 17” wheels
• Dual Pane sunroof, black stripes
• black headlight housing
• auto dimming rear view mirror with compass
• armrest, rain sensing wipers
• auto headlights
• Xenons
• Bluetooth
• USB adapter and white turn signals.

Then there’s the MINI Yours items; off-white steering wheel, interior trim, Soda mirror caps and side scuttles. But most crucially our tester came equipped with the sport suspension. The result of all of this was that we had a $29.550 that both felt loaded and like a bit of a stripper given the seat material and lack of Navigation or MINI Connected. Sure going a la carte made for less value for the money but we couldn’t complain with a few of the sport oriented options.

At first glance the interior felt lightly spec’d until I realized the amount of MINI Yours included. The interior prominently featured MINI Yours mirrors, dash and steering wheel. If any of it was worth the money, it would be the wheel. Trimmed in black and white leather that closely resembles the feeling and texture of butter, this was softest most enjoyable wheel I can remember touching in a MINI. As we’ve said in the past, if there’s one place to spend money inside, it might as well be on the primary contact item in the cabin.

Buttery leather aside this is the best a Cooper S has ever felt to me. Revised electronics have fully eliminated the torque steer and the updated engine with Valvetronic makes this car feel as rapid as the original 197 hp JCW kit. You can thank the mountain of torque available low in the rev range, and rapid throttle delivery for that. In all, it makes the car less of a wind up experience (as in the R53) and more of a point and shoot.

Handling of course hasn’t changed. While it lacks that last 10% of feel the R53 had, the 2012 Cooper S makes up for it with a firmer weight and feel in the rest of the control points. The shifter, clutch and accelerator better correspond with the actions of driving the car and feel more in tune with the character of the engine and suspension.

Underneath it all our test car had the optional “sports” suspension which is a must have addition to any MINI as far as we’re concerned. While the ride is slightly more firm, it gives the car better control and less body roll. It’s also particularly helpful under acceleration, as it helps to reduce the backwards rock that reduces front grip when you go hard on the throttle.

This Cooper S wasn’t perfect though. Inside our test car, the leatherette felt oddly out of place given the expensive steering wheel. Then there’s the manual climate control that still, after last year’s revision, still looks dreadfully cheap in a $30,000 car. But elsewhere the 2011 refresh that all MINI’s recieved has done a lot to bring the look up market.

Despite those missed details, our test car reminded us why the R56 hatch is the heart and soul of the MINI. It has utility, performance and a price-point that is the most attractive of any model in the line-up. No surprise then that it’s the best selling MINI model month after month.

Most of all, our 2012 MINI Cooper S test car reminded us why we do what we do, why we love MINIs and why we love seeing more on the road every day. Small, efficient, athletic and endlessly fun, they are still best way to bring a smile to one’s face.

The current 1.6L MINI engine wasn’t quite born out of the strange bed-fellow partnership that the previous power plant was. The Tritec came to MINI from of Chrysler (where it was engineered and designed in Detroit) via Brazil (where it was produced). It just so happened that it turned out to be a robust and characterful power plant that suited the R50 and R53 rather well.

In comparison the Prince family of engines has quite the pedigree. Designed and engineered by key members of the same team that had just finished work on the famed M54 inline six BMW engine, the Prince engines introduced MINI to a number of new technologies. BMW even enlisted the help of the then BMW F1 team and some of their engineers when it came to a few key components within the JCW version.

Motorsports and the Prince engine started in 2008 with the updated MINI Challenge car. First shown in the summer of 2007 at MINI United (teased actually) the engine found under the bonnet was essentially a freer breathing version of the forthcoming JCW MINI. In JCW street guise the turbo four made 210 bhp. And while that was down on the Tritec JCW power plant (which made due with 211 bhp) torque was way up. In all it was the fastest MINI made yet.

But that wasn’t the end of the Prince’s motorsport involvement. Fast forward to 2010 when both BMW and MINI race cars debuted with the 1.6L turbo Prince under the hood. For the MINI this was in the form of the 300 hp WRC Countryman. However with BMW it was (surprisingly) in the form of a rear wheel drive 310 bhp, 310 lb-ft BMW 320 TC. Yes that means tranverse mounted 1.6L is turned sideways and mounted in typical BMW fashion (longitudinally).

BMW then went even further and put the revised MCS Prince engine (code named the N18) into the rear wheel drive F20 1 Series BMW. That engine (using the BMW code-name N13B16), is mounted transversely powering the rear wheels. It features two different tunes: the 116i with 136 hp and the 118i with 170 hp. The engine characteristics are slightly more refined to better suit the BMW brand.

What does all of this mean? For starters there will be a greater emphasis at BMW on developing the Prince family of engines in the years ahead. It’s also clear that BMW sees a bright and increasingly high performance future for some Prince engines. Last year the Cooper S turbo got a sizable boost thanks to BMW’s famous variable valve timing. Next year we expect that upgrade to extend to the current JCW power plant in the form of more power across the power-band. How much? Don’t be surprised to see the 2013 JCW (available in Coupe, Roadster, Convertible, Clubman and yes, Countryman) to flirt or even surpass the 220 hp mark.

Also under development (likely for 2014) is hybrid version of the engine that will likely make it’s way into the the Countryman and/or Paceman along with BMW’s own front wheel drive MINI based 1 Series.

Yes MINI is introducing a 1.5L 3 cylinder engine in the next generation MINI that will wow with it’s efficiency and performance. But it’s clear that the four cylinder Prince will continue to play a very important role for both the BMW and MINI brand on both the road and the track.

Download | 16.7MB | 34:36

Last week Todd and I sat down virtually with Vinnie Kung, MINI USA Product Manager on the occasion of the LA Autoshow. As usual when we sit down with Vinnie, we talked about everything MINI. From the new Roadster to the B Spec race car to clutch feel in the Countryman. And even why some Americans want MINI’s largest vehicle even bigger. As usual Vinnie was candid and eager to answer almost everything we threw at him. You can see a quick list of what we discussed after the break.

Topics:

• 2011 and Countryman sales
• Paceman
• Roadster specifics
• Roadster top and head room
• Recaros
• Coupe sales
• New B Spec Race car
• MINI Yours
• Colors (Laguna Green)
• JCW Countryman
• MINI USA and the WRC

MINI USA is getting in the business of selling race cars. Today MINI took the wraps off of the new B-Spec Cooper that will be sanctioned to run in the SCCA, Grand Am, NASA and the World Challenge. Basically any weekend next spring, summer or fall you will likely be able to find some place to race the B-Spec Cooper.

So why B-spec? B-Spec vehicles are production-based cars that are equalized on power and weight to make the racing as competitive as possible and all four of the major racing sanctioning bodies (SCCA, Grand Am, NASA and World Challenge).

“B-Spec racing is a great fit for MINI because the car is developed with racing heritage in mind and the races are run with vehicles very similar to those already sitting in the driveway,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President – MINI USA. “Getting involved with B-Spec racing offers a fun and competitive race environment without requiring MINI drivers to make a large financial investment to make their car a serious competitor.”

Helping to make this all possible is MINI of Charleston who is partnering with MINI USA on the effort.

MINI of Charleston, a Hendrick Automotive Group company, will build and sell turn-key MINI Hardtop racing vehicles by the start of the 2012 season. It will also offer class-legal conversion kits so the owner of any 2007 – 2012 MINI Cooper Hardtop can easily be ready to race in B-Spec. All safety equipment will meet or exceed requirements set forth by the sanctioning body.

During the LA Auto Show, the first MINI’s B-Spec prototype will be on display. This vehicle will be driven by Brad Davis, Executive General Manager of MINI of Charleston and team driver Robbie Davis.

MINI USA’s existing contingency program for all four racing series will be extended to sanctioned B-Spec race teams, with financial compensation for an eligible podium finish.

“MINI entering B-Spec racing is full of benefits,” said Vinnie Kung, MINI USA Product Manager. “Drivers can enter the racing arena for a fairly low investment in a car developed from the ground up with performance and handling at its core. In addition, MINI USA’s contingency program is to compelling, it could even pay off the car itself in about a year.”

Final contingency payout information, as well as detailed pricing for the MINI Hardtop adapted by MINI of Charleston and the conversion kits, will be announced as the start of the 2012 season draws closer.

Vehicle Specs: 2012 MINI Cooper Hardtop B-Spec Racer

• HP: 121 @ 6,000, factory rated TQ: 114 @ 4,250, factory rated
• Steering: Electric power-assisted rack and pinion, 14.1:1 ratio
• Weight: 2,535 pounds, 60.4%/39.6% F/R, factory rated
• Length / Wheelbase / Height: 146.6”/ 97.1” / 55.4”
• Suspension: KW V1 Coilover Struts and Shocks/ Vorshlag front camber plates
• Brakes: Standard MINI Brake system with Carbotech Brake Pads and Way Motorworks Stainless Steel Braided hoses.
• Safety Equipment: Kirk Racing Roll Cage with Kirkey Intermediate Road Racing Seat and Schroth Hybrid III Harnesses, Cage Nets and Window Net.
• Wheel / Tire: 15 x 7 Kosei K1 aluminum alloy / Hoosier SM6 205-50-15

Performance-enhancing electronics standard on all MINIs

• Dynamic Stability Control (DSC)
• Four-wheel disc Anti-Lock Brakes (ABS)
• Cornering Brake Control (CBC)
• Brake Force Distribution (BFD)

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

[Official Release] MINI, official partner of Team GB and ParalympicsGB, has unveiled its new London 2012 special, limited edition models to celebrate the monumental London 2012 Olympic Games.

There will be just 2,012 of these special edition models built, which are available in Cooper, Cooper D, Cooper S and Cooper SD trims and come in the Union Jack themed colours; Chilli Red, White Silver or Lightning Blue. All models boast white mirror caps and a white roof featuring the iconic London 2012 Olympic graphic.

Full gallery after the break.

The exterior also features a distinctive Union Jack single sport stripe which runs over the bonnet, roof and rear tailgate of the car. The side scuttles also bear the London 2012 Olympic graphic. To finish off the dynamic look, the MINI London 2012 edition features unique grey 17-inch conical spoke alloy wheels – unavailable on any other MINI model.

Inside, the most striking feature is the London skyline, beautifully etched across the width of the piano-black dashboard. Silhouetting some of London’s most iconic landmarks, including Tower Bridge, Battersea Power Station and the London Eye, the dashboard also displays the words “London 1 of 2012”.

The London 2012 inspiration continues with red and blue stitching twined with white piping on both the front and rear Black ‘Lounge Leather’ upholstery. The headrests complement the theme with Union Jack piping and a London 2012 logo is stitched on the inner edge of both front seats. Coloured stitching also features on the hand brake, gear stick gaiter and floor mats which also have piping.

All London 2012 special edition models come packed with a bundle of extra options like Lounge Leather sports seats, DAB radio, air conditioning, cruise control and chrome interior touches. MINIMALISM technology* also comes as standard; helping to make the 99g/km CO2 emitting Cooper D models exempt from London Congestion Charging.

As well as fuel sipping mpg figures and low CO2 emissions – MINI is one of the top five low CO2 car manufacturers** – drivers can enjoy the brand’s trademark go-kart handling and charismatic personality in a truly patriotic driving experience.

To bag one of these must-have street accessories of 2012, the new MINI London 2012 Edition pre-sale list opens at today, with the new models hitting UK roads from March 2012. On the Road Prices for the MINI London 2012 Editions models are:

MINI Cooper Hatch £17,800 MINI Cooper D Hatch £19,080 MINI Cooper S Hatch £20,125 MINI Cooper SD Hatch £20,860

MINI is releasing a special edition R56 Cooper S for the European market to celebrate it’s multiple wins at the Monte Carlo rally almost 50 years ago. The car comes in Chili Red with a white roof and unique stripes on the side. Additionally the car will feature unique badges and a white rings gas cap.

Perhaps the most notable thing to the are the four front driving lights installed on the grille. This marks the first time that MINI has officially sold a car with more than two driving lights. MINI has said this reduced air flow to the engine of the with the R50 and R53 models. However with the R56 the majority of cooling comes into the car via the lower grille allowing for the extra pair of lights.

Inside the theme is continued with “Monte-Carlo Edition stitched into the seats and a two-tone red and black steering wheel. Additionally the steering wheel, keychain and fender decals are individually numbered.

And for the final touch, MINI brand ambassador and winner of the 1966 and ’67 Monte Carlo Rally Rauno Aaltonen will be signing each car.

The 200 of the Monte Carlo editions will be made available to European buyers later this year for the price of €36,500 ($49,600). And for those of you in the US, yes this does seem somewhat familiar. In 2004 MINI USA released a Cooper S called the MC40 to commemorate the same thing. Although with 1,000 units made and no ability to personalize the car with specific options, the MC40 quickly became a tough sell for most dealerships. Hopefully MINI has more luck with the much more exclusive and better options ‘Monte Carlo Edition’.

Source: Left Lane News

While I was out last week driving a bunch of fast BMWs around California, I had a chance to see the MINI Goodwood as it made its US debut at Pebble Beach. The MINI Goodwood (yes even we refuse to use the full name – MINI Inpsired by Goodwood) doesn’t have a defining exterior characteristic like the JCW brand or other limited edition MINIs. In fact from a distance, it just looks like a very well specced dark colored MINI Cooper. And that’s completely by design.

Designers at Rolls Royce didn’t want to create a car that was an extrovert. As is their philosophy, they simply wanted to created understated elegance that led into a rich and sumptuous driver environment. For a MINI owners used to seeing Union Jacks decals and white wheels, it’s a foreign idea. But for the Roll Royce owner (or anyone with that mind-set) the exterior is for the world, the interior is for them.

The defining characteristic of the car is obvious the second you open the door. The smell, the textures and the subtle details are almost overwhelming. Yes $52,000 is a lot of money for a MINI. But when you see it up-close, you start to understand the truly bespoke nature of this car. It is meant to appeal to high net-worth individuals who want a efficient urban runabout with the style and elegance they’ve come to expect in their lives.

Leather is everywhere. And this isn’t the leather we know from the rest of the automotive world. Where almost all cars use leather with printed patterns on them to hide the mediocre quality of the hide, Rolls Royce uses hides that are carefully prepared to ensure consistency of colour throughout. Every millimetre is inspected by eye to make sure there are no imperfections. Additionally the leather is pre-shrunk and specially dyed so that it won’t squeak or crack with age.

Then there’s the carpeting which will likely be one of the softest and most luxurious things you’ll ever lay your hands on.

The MINI Goodwood isn’t intended for me and it’s likely not for you. But the Goodwood incredibly successful at redefining the MINI in the eyes of a demographic that is increasingly looking at smaller more efficient cars for daily transportation. And there’s no better starting point than the already stylishly iconic MINI

Special thanks to Bryan from Kilometer Magazine for providing the photography.

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…

As MINI Inspired by Goodwood makes its European debut this weekend at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, MINI announces UK pricing for the stunning car which blends Rolls Royce luxury with the unmistakble MINI driving experience.

From 30th June 2011 customers will be able to place their order for one of just 1,000 MINI Inspired by Goodwood models priced at £41,000. The first of these unique cars will be delivered in March 2012.

MINI Inspired by Goodwood is the result of an exceptional collaboration between MINI and the Rolls Royce Motors Cars design team. The special edition MINI features top-grade materials and the highest level of workmanship.

The exterior and interior design features, were conceived at the Rolls-Royce Design division in the Sussex town of Goodwood and provide the car with a luxurious charisma and an incomparably high-quality ambience.

Inside the MINI Inspired by Goodwood, specially selected materials and precise craftsmanship guarantee the highest degree of comfort. The dashboard, central console, air vents, carpets, heated lounge leather seats, roof lining, doors and interior cladding all boast the exclusive Rolls-Royce colour Cornsilk. The dashboard and doorhandle surfaces, which are manufactured in Goodwood are finished in Walnut Burr, a premium wood trim exclusive to Rolls-Royce. The MINI Inspired by Goodwood also features cashmere roof linings, sun visors and rear storage tray as well as deep-pile lambswool foot mats – a quality also featured in current Rolls-Royce models.

The most striking features of the exterior design are the body finish in the exclusive Rolls-Royce colour Diamond Black metallic and 17-inch light alloy wheels sporting a multi-spoke design.

The MINI Inspired by Goodwood is powered by a l.6-litre 135 kW/184 bhp four-cylinder engine with Twin Scroll turbocharger, direct petrol injection and variable valve control. The power unit, which is featured in the new MINI Cooper S – it is the most efficient engine in its displacement class.

The MINI Inspired by Goodwood’s range of high-quality equipment offered as standard also includes Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control, automatic air conditioning, an onboard computer, MINI Navigation and the audio system Radio MINI Visual Boost, which includes the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system. The car also comes with MINI’s 5 year servicing package; MINI TLC.

Customers can find out more about the MINI Inspired by Goodwood at www.mini.co.uk and can place an order at their local MINI dealership.

Source: MINI UK News

Full Gallery

[Show as slideshow]

12►

So let us set the stage. On one side we have a lightly specced and well modded 2006 MCS. On the other we have a loaded 2007 MCS with the JCW suspension, engine kit and aerokit. Both have identical wheels and tires and of course the gorgeous Astro Black. So enough of the set-up. Let’s step back into the fall of 2007…

(Originally posted November 28th 2007) We’ve done several R53/R56 comparisons over the past year but one thing we’ve never done is tested two (almost) identically equipped MINIs back to back. Along with that, we’ve never had the right opportunity to equally assess both cars over the right roads and in the right conditions. And while MotoringFile has been the host of multiple articles comparing the two cars, I always felt they missed a little something without back to back drives. This comparison was to be different. We’d be focusing on driving the cars rather than talking about styling, price and all the other hotly contested debates that we’ve hosted on these pages previously.

So the plan was hatched; we’d drive from Chicago to Kalamazoo Michigan with a detour to the Indiana Lakefront. Here we’d find some of the best (and largely unknown) roads in the entire region. Once back on the highway we’d finish with a two hour blast up I94 to Bell’s Brewery, home of one of the most celebrated micro-brewed beers in the US. Along with the two MINIs being tested would be another R53 (’03 vintage) and a chase car in the form of a Porsche 911 Turbo (996).

But why travel two hours to buy a case of beer and bring it back? About a year ago the distributor of Bell’s in Illinois sold the rights to distributor that the Bell’s management found rather unsavory. Instead of dealing with this new company, Bells decided to simply pull out of Illinois and the entire Chicago market. But as a tip of the cap to it’s Chicago clientele, Bell’s decided to offer a discount to anyone purchasing beer at the brewery with an Illinois driver’s license. Thus the 2007 Bells Beer Run (aka East bound and Up) was born.

Now onto the cars. Our goal was to test two cars that were seemingly equal in performance. So we needed one of the last R53s made and it had to have all of the popular modifications that have become commonplace with MINI enthusiasts. Thus our 2006 R53 test car came equipped with the following:

• Astro Black on Astro Black
• Miltek Exhaust
• Webb Motorsport Intake
• Webb 15% Reduction Pulley
• 18″ 16lbs OZ Ultraleggera Wheels
• JCW Steering Wheel
• JCW Brakes
• w/some of the toe “dialed out” by a local garage (the owner was adamant it makes a difference with turn-in)

Power = 185hp +
Torque = more than stock…

This particular R53 was one of the last made and it was is excellent condition with fairly low miles.

With the R56 we wanted a similar wheel/tire combination and modifications that upped the power in a similar fashion. Luckily I just happened to have the perfect car… sitting in my garage. On paper my 2007 MCS matched up particularly well with our R53 test car due to the newly released dealer installed JCW Kit. Here are the full specs:

• Astro Black on Astro Black
• JCW “Stage I” Engine Kit (Exhaust/Intake/ECU)
• JCW Suspension Kit
• 18″ 16lbs OZ Ultraleggera Wheels
• JCW Steering Wheel
• JCW Pads (other brake components are identical to JCW brake kit on the R53)

Power = 189hp (192bhp)
Torque = 200ft lbs

We started out from Chicago on the newly re-opened Dan Ryan expressway. Immediately it was obvious that the modded R53 had a ton of power in the mid range and top-end. While the R56 could hold it’s own, it certainly wasn’t dramatically faster. And the sound of the R53 from behind was fantastic. Just a hint of Supercharger whine and the growl of the Miltek exhaust gave the car one hell of a presence.

In contrast the R56 JCW MCS had a less complex note to it but was (surprisingly) equal in aggressiveness if heard from outside the car. Driving behind the JCW R56 you’re immediately struck by the difference. The JCW kit adds a note that is deeper than on the R53 even with the Miltek. The exhaust itself was also louder both in and outside the cabin on the highway. Under cruising speeds we found it fairly subdued (it didn’t drone as some aftermarket exhausts do), but move the pedal at all and sound returns with a vengeance.

Having owned basically an identical car to the R53 we tested, I can vouch for its quickness. Whether around a track or on the highway, the car was exceptionally fun. However the highway wasn’t always it’s most ideal setting. Above triple digits, the R53 had a tendency to become a little less planted and lose some critical steering feel. In other words the front end became a little too light for comfortable high-speed cruising.

In contrast to this the JCW MCS (equipped with the JCW aero-kit) felt noticeably more confident than both the R53 or the R56 I tested at 140mph + on the German Autobahn. In fact, above tripple didgets it felt close to the GP in composure. The conclusion one has to reach is that the wind tunnel study done on the optional JCW aero-kit does effectively increase front down-force and provide a better experience at high speeds. While I had heard this said to me by more than one person at MINI over the last year, I had never felt this first hand until now.

As we neared the Michigan border, it was finally time to get off the expressway and head for the shore. There are a few hidden gems around the Beverly Shores area that seemed ideal to put these cars to a proper test. And with the help of the GPS in the 2007, we finally found them.

First up, the JCW R56.

“Insanely fast,” were the first words out of Matt’s mouth as we walked away from the R56 after a short drive. I’ll agree it’s fast, but insanely fast? Yes the R56 has loads of torque. And with the JCW kit it has a bit more power too. With the meat of the power-band starting low and going all the way near redline, acceleration seems to be effortless. But what makes it all the more enjoyable is the engine’s ability to rev so quickly.

The JCW kit not only increases the power noticeably but gone is the annoying flat spot where torque seems to disappear in the stock R56 MCS. In it’s place is a clean upsurge in power that starts when you touch the pedal and doesn’t seem to stop until redline. And there’s now so much torque on tap (officially 200ft lbs) that you don’t really dare burry the throttle for more than a moment unless you’re truly prepared for triple digit speeds. But it’s not that there’s a huge number disparity between the two cars tested here. The difference is really how and when the JCW R56 applies the power. Which is to say with efficient vengeance and all the time.

There’s little question that this particular R56 has the edge in handling due to the JCW Suspension kit installed (also available on the R53/R50). But you can’t really appreciate the difference until you drive the two cars back to back. Where the stock suspension in the R53 felt stiff and ready to play, the R56 seemed to swallow corners with a shrug and a “what’s next?” sort of attitude. It allows for more composed motion through the corners and thus more control at the limit. It also gives you more traction coming out of corners. There’s less of that weight shift to the rear that you’d normally get in a quick FWD car like the MINI. The combination of the JCW suspension, updated DSC (standard on the R56) and the optional limited slip made the R56 feel almost faultless in the corners despite the cold leaf covered pavement.

But enough of the new car. Let’s get behind the always familiar R53 JCW steering wheel and get reacquainted with the car that built the new MINI’s reputation. Immediately it’s painfully obvious that both the throttle response and the power delivery are second rate to the R56 – even more so to the JCW R56 tested here. At best you could describe it as… delayed. At worst it’s alarming after a drive in the R56. But if you wait just a bit, you’re rewarded not only with some impressive pull but with a sound that is completely addicting.

You can hear everything in the R53. The intake, the exhaust and the supercharger whine is startling at first if you’re not used to it. And this is coming from someone who’s owned essentially the same car for two years. You have to love the sound to be able to tolerate it all day. Luckily I do. And then of course there’s the glorious exhaust popping. On this car (equipped with a Miltek exhaust) that back-pressure popping has a classic car feel that is addicting.

Then I turned the wheel and things got better. The R53 has an immediacy in it’s steering that (for better or worse) the R56 can’t quite match. It’s been said before, but I’ll say it again; the R53 simply has more steering feel than the R56. While the ’07 JCW MCS doesn’t ever seem lacking, it just doesn’t quite match the purity that you get from apexing at speed in a 2006 MCS. But somewhat surprisingly the steering is also noticeably lighter than the R56. It lacks the weighted and on-center feel that I begin to take for granted in the R56. While it’s especially evident off of the twisties, it’s also obvious in the tight stuff as well.

One change that I hadn’t noticed as clearly before was the pedal placement. Where on the R56 I could heel-to-toe with just a little flick, on the R53 it was more of a concerted effort. It didn’t take long to adjust to the set-up but it was surprisingly noticeable. However it’s worth keeping in mind that heel-to-toe style shifts are something much easier practiced in the R56 due to it’s ability to rev quickly. The R53 (with it’s supercharger all the baggage that comes with it) seems to rev at glacial speeds in comparison. Because of this, the naturally aspirated R50 Cooper (not tested here) was always quicker to rev.

Beverley Shores is one of my favorite areas in Northern Indiana. It’s located on Lake Michigan on dunes that centuries ago became overcome by forest. For enthusiasts that means two things; elevation changes and corners. For everyone else it means a gorgeous lake-shore with Lord of the Rings style forests. Due to this, it’s also the location that was used to display the famed “World’s Fair Houses” from the 1933 Chicago World’s fair. The homes were built in Chicago by a handful of the most well known architects of the day and once the fair was completed, disassembled and shipped (via boat) across the lake to Beverly Shores.

Alas the years were not kind to the houses. Several were taken by the lake during storms and the others simply fell into dis-repair. Thankfully the state of Indiana stepped in last year and the remaining homes are being refurbished and/or rebuilt to the original specifications by individual owners. So before leaving the area a stop had to be made to pay our respects to the seemingly unbridled enthusiasm that these homes represented 75 years ago. And who doesn’t want to see the first electric garage doors?

As we headed back onto the highway I was almost in disbelief. The extent to which the cars were different shocked both of us. I had driven the two back to back before, but never with so little time in between and through such demanding roads.

There was little question that it was the R53 that had the edge in steering feel and that its turn-in was quicker. While the R56′s on-center feel and better weight made it feel a little more grown-up, it was still eager to play. But it felt like it lacked the last 15% of feel that made the R53 so pure.

But it was the power of the new “Prince” engine and the smoothness of the new transmission that stood out in my mind as the huge differentiators. The R56 was just plainly faster on every facet of the test. Once more, while it lacked some of the R53s steering feel and immediacy, there was also little question that the JCW suspension gave the car inspiring grip and control in the corners.

And with that, we were back on the highway. With three Valentine One’s in the group, we made pretty good time. Although I got the distinct feeling that the 911 Turbo in the group was just toying with us staying back in the pack. Perhaps he knew, if anyone was getting a ticket (and potentially jail-time), it would be the guy with the word “Turbo” on the back of this car.

After another hour or so we finally made it to Bells Brewery. We saddled up to the bar and ordered a pint (just one) and some lunch. And that’s where the debate started. Or not. As it turned out, Matt and I pretty much agreed from the first words out of our mouths. There wasn’t much mystery about it. Sure the debate gets cloudy when talking about things like styling preferences but discussion on performance was pretty cut and dry.

Once we got packed up and said our goodbyes to all that is Kalamazoo, we headed back out onto I94. One hour and 45 minutes later we were in Chicago. I won’t go into how this was possible but I can tell you it even included an unscheduled detour through the wonderful metropolis of Gary Indiana.

As we were heading into Chicago I reflecting on how different the two cars are. The power and speed of the R56 had always been masked due to it’s smoothness. Then there’s the R53′s lighter steering and inferior on-center weighting that didn’t seem all that bad when I owned one. And of course the wonderful immediacy of the turn in with the R53, something the R56 can’t match.

Then it hit me. The R56 is a product purely designed and engineered by BMW. Even the engine is 100% BMW engineered. It truly is the better car of the two, no question. The R53 on the other hand is a product of, well basically an unhappy marriage. It was designed and engineered by BMW and Rover outcasts (talented as they may have been) as the BMW Group was going through one of the worst periods in it’s history with the Rover losing millions daily. And yet it turned out to be an exceptional, capable car with (above all) loads of personality. Part great people and quite possibly part luck, the R53 (R50 and R52 included) will forever be remembered as special cars for resurrecting a brand the right way. But today, with these two cars, it’s second best.

And then, as I was turning off the highway I heard something in the JCW R56. A rattle, just in-front of the sunroof. 4500 miles and this was the first signs of imperfection. Maybe these cars aren’t all that different?

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

Since 2008 we’ve heard rumblings of a higher performance JCW model (in the vein of the 2006 GP) that would close out the R56′s production cycle. The rumors have always centered around more power, better aero and the JCW suspension as standard. Then over a year ago a spy photographer working for Leftlanenews captured these images that seemed to correspond with what we knew of the car. The main feature being the enormous MINI Challenge-esque rear defuser.

Fast forward to today and we see new photos courtesy of Autoblog that appear to show the same formula in an updated prototype form. The key indicators that this is the real deal are:

• Redesigned and re-profiled front grille
• The lower JCW suspension seen in the smaller wheel/tire gap
• Huge rear diffuser clearly derived from the Challenge race car.
• The more subtle and functional spoiler
• Updated front splitter seemingly taken from the Coupe

So what does all this mean? We believe we’re seeing a special edition R56 JCW that will be a limited run sometime next year. We expect more power and torque along with better aero (less lift in the year) and perhaps even a reduction in weight (a la the GP). It’s also not that hard to fathom these tweaks being applied to other JCWs based on the R56 (R58 coupe for instance) and being sold as limited editions in the coming years.

Needless to say this is what we and many of you have been waiting for. Rest assured you’ll be hearing more on this car at MF in the coming weeks and months. Until then go check out the full gallery over at Autoblog.com