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.

New-generation engine for the John Cooper Works models offers instantaneous power delivery and a restrained appetite for fuel.

An outstanding baseline concept and a constant flow of innovations provide the basis for sustained success in race competition and beyond. Indeed, a rigorously applied strategy of further development has also given the road-spec John Cooper Works models a decisive edge in their respective segments. Expertise refined over years of motor sport involvement has ensured ultra-sporty driving fun by perfecting the interplay of a powerful engine, advanced chassis technology, and bespoke exterior and interior design elements. And so the John Cooper Works models are poised to embark on the new season stronger than ever and with fresh power under the bonnet.

The family of elite athletes in the MINI ranks welcomes another new member in the shape of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. The five-door model is fitted with a particularly powerful variant of the new-generation engine. Its 160 kW/218 hp is channelled through an all-wheel-drive system to deliver a new take on outstanding performance that can be enjoyed not only on the road but also over rough terrain. Peak torque of 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) is available between 1,900 and 5,600 rpm, and the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman dashes from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.0 seconds – regardless of whether the power flows through the standard six-speed manual gearbox or the optional six-speed automatic. Top speed is 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph). Equally impressive is average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres / 38.2 mpg (automatic: 7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg) and CO2emissions of 172 grams (184 g) per kilometer.

The new-generation engine can also be found in the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, MINI John Cooper Works Convertible, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster. The further developed powerplant is based on the unit in the MINI Cooper S and likewise uses a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC system. This throttle-free load control technology optimises both the responsiveness of the engine and its efficiency; lightning-fast reactions to the driver’s requests for power go hand-in-hand with a restrained appetite for fuel.

The technical make-up of the 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine – which sports a John Cooper Works logo on its cover – has a direct link to the development of race-trim engines and has been honed exclusively for the John Cooper Works models. Its cylinder block and bearing mounts are made from aluminium and join forces with reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and low-weight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled to help provide the extra cooling required by a turbocharged engine, and the intake camshaft features infinite phase adjustment.

The turbocharger, meanwhile, develops even greater charge pressure than the engine in the MINI Cooper S Coupe. The likewise bespoke exhaust system can be identified from the outside by its polished stainless steel twin tailpipes. The engine produces its maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm. The overboost function allows this figure to be raised to 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) for a short time between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm.

The new engine links up as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox tuned to suit its performance characteristics. However, the John Cooper Works models can now also be ordered as an option with a six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function. The automatic also allows the driver to change gear manually using either the selector lever or the shift paddles on the steering wheel.

MINIMALISM technology delivers top performance and increased range.

In addition to the improvements made to the engine’s efficiency, the more extensive use of fuel consumption and emissions-reducing technology makes the John Cooper Works models more credible ambassadors than ever for the principle of MINIMALISM. Only rarely will the unparalleled driving fun need to be interrupted to refuel, thanks to technology such as Brake Energy Regeneration, which concentrates power generation for the in-vehicle network during periods under braking and on the overrun. Working in tandem with the manual gearbox, the Auto Start/Stop function switches the engine off automatically when the car stops at junctions and in traffic tailbacks, while the Shift Point Display advises the driver of the most efficiency-enhancing moment to change gear. The electric power steering also does its bit to reduce fuel consumption, its electric motor only using energy when power assistance is actually needed. This array of innovations has helped optimise the balance between driving fun and fuel consumption displayed by all the John Cooper Works models. Indeed, fuel consumption in the EU test cycle has been cut by up to 0.5 litres per 100 kilometres, depending on the model. The MINI John Cooper Works races from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) on the way to a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph). Average fuel consumption stands at 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions come in at 153 grams (165 g) per kilometer.

The MINI John Cooper Works Clubman also blends imposing acceleration – 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds (automatic: 7.0 sec) – and a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph) with exemplary fuel economy of 6.7 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.2 mpg (automatic: 7.2 l/100 km / 39.2 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 155 grams (167 g) per kilometre. The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible sprints from rest to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds (automatic: 7.1 sec) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h / 146 mph (233 km/h / 145 mph). Yet its fuel consumption is just 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg) and CO2 emissions are limited to 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.

A 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) time of 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.6 sec) makes the MINI John Cooper Works Coupe the fasting-accelerating of these elite athletes, and it also boasts a top speed of 240 km/h / 149 mph (238 km/h / 148 mph). This outstanding sporting potency belies average fuel consumption of 6.6 litres per 100 kilometres / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 153 grams (165 g) per kilometre. The MINI John Cooper Works Roadster reaches 100 km/h (62 mph) from rest in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) and continues on to a top speed of 237 km/h / 147 mph (235 km/h / 146 mph). Its average fuel consumption comes in at 6.8 litres per 100 kilometres / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg), with CO2 emissions recorded as 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.

Racing feeling and unmistakable style.

All John Cooper Works models combine their stand-out sporting potential with unmistakable looks and special equipment features which accentuate the feeling of race competition both inside the car and out. Standard specification includes the Sport Button (which allows the driver to tweak the car’s accelerator responses and steering characteristics), particularly powerful brakes, the DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) for the driven axle, plus bespoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: 18-inch) and runflat tyres. The likewise standard John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit optimises both the airflow over and around the cars, and their visual impact. Exclusive paint finishes and roof colours, plus an ultra-sporty interior ambience with special seat upholstery variants and interior trim elements, add further bespoke touches. Customers can now order Striped Alloy and Pepper White interior trim elements, for example. And the standard-fitted sports steering wheel now features a John Cooper Works logo in the lower section of the centre spoke.

The John Cooper name has embodied the successful relationship between the British small car and sporting competition for several decades. It was back in the 1960s that the legendary sports car designer hit upon the idea of injecting a fresh dose of enjoyment into everyday road driving, and extra-potent variants of the classic MINI soon carried his name. Today, the MINI sub-brand John Cooper Works represents the epitome of race-track feeling and stand-out performance. The six elite athletes that make up the John Cooper Works range, along with options and accessories designed to enhance the agility of any MINI and lend all variants of the car a more defined sporting character, create a powerful advertisement for the brand’s motor sport genes.

As is customary, MINI will be rolling out a handful of key changes for production starting this March. As is typical they call into three categories: color and trim, new and/or updated options and restrictions. Let’s take a look at all of them after the break.

• The White Silver package with the Clubman will not be available with a white roof starting 03/12
• Clubman gets the optional JCW Package complete with aero-kit
• Clubman JCW also gets the aero-kit as standard
• New iPod/iPhone cradle for the Countryman
• The Countryman Cooper S gets a new 128 mph speed limiter
• The Clubman to be offered with Spice Orange
• The Hot Chocolate convertible top is phased out
• Laser Blue and Laguna Green phased out.
• MINI Yours bonnet stripes and side scuttles offered in black
• All R5X models get Reef Blue (replacing Laser Blue)
• Special editions start production: Baker (R56 MCS), Baywater (R56 MC and MCS, and the Highgate (R57 MC and MCS).

And the biggest news? The R59 MINI Roadster goes on-sale February 25th.

(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…

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

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.

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

The current MINI convertible was introduced in early 2009 just after the Clubman. Immediately it was a sales success quickly surpassing the R52 1st generation convertible in both favorable reviews and sales. However as it customary with cars that have limited functionality (ie toys for many people) sales have dropped off dramatically as the years have passed by. In fact for 2011, the R57 MINI convertible is down over 25% as compared to 2010.

To make matters worse for the R57 MINI will be bringing to market the new Roadster. A sleeker and sportier looking iteration of the convertible, the R59 Roadster is destined to steal even more sales away from the R57. So case closed right? MINI will just end R57 production surely? Read on to find out.

It may surprise more than a few but MINI intends to continue producing the convertible for another three years. MINI’s plan all along has been to produce the R57 convertible until late 2014 when the switch-over to the F57 next generation MINI convertible will take place. That would give the R57 a standard (in BMW terms) six year life-cycle typically needed to make the car profitable.

So for those that have been asking MF, yes that means MINI will have two open-top cars on the market for at least a year and a half as production cycles overlap.

MINI will be releasing a special edition MINI Convertible known as the Highgate later this year. The car will follow along the lines of the recently released MINI Hampton. Created by MINI Yours, the Highgate will feature a new color – Ice Chocolate Metallic. According to our sources the color looks to be a cross between Hot Chocolate and Astro Black.

Inside the Highgate features an interior finished in Chocolate leather with contrasting white stitching.

Look for the Highgate to debut late this year and be for 2012.

Note: The image above is our interpretation of how the Highgate could look based on the information we’ve received. Expect changes.

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

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.

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.

You likely read last week in our interview with MINI USA Product Manager Vinnie Kung. But we wanted to go over the decision and talk about what the broader picture of MINI’s engine line-up in the US.

First off MINI will clearly be without a diesel in the line-up in the US. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be alternatives. But before we get to that let’s recap what was said in the interview. MINI USA had planned on bringing over the Cooper D for the 2010 model year as early as 2007. The plan was to use the engine without urea injection until 2015 when new EPA rules would go into effect. However the 2008 worldwide economic collapse brought some unfortunately realities to BMW and all non-essential projects were cancelled.

Fast forward to 2009 and MINI USA was once again ready to get started selling diesels. However a new problem emerged when the EPA moved up a key date for cleaner emissions and thus urea injection became a mandatory. MINI USA investigated the idea and talked to everyone with the design and manufacturing process. The answer wasn’t pretty. The cost would be staggering considering the body in white would have to be altered to make room for the urea injection system. Once again the plan was shelved.

As we enter 2011 MINI USA is offering two petrol powered 1.6L engines with solid efficiency and good performance. But we all know that the MPG numbers both achieve will look antiquated in a few years. MINI and BMW knows this and engineers are busy within Germany working on the next generation of MINI powerplants.

What can we expect? We’ve talked a lot about the new range of 1.5L turbocharged three cylinder engines. More power, better MPG and lighter we expect great things from this new range of three bangers. But the engine strategy doesn’t end there.

As an official press release and spy-shots suggest, MINI is partnering with Getrag to produce a hybrid powertrain. We know literally nothing about this power plant. But what we can logically guess a few things:

• It will be a plug-in hybrid given industry trends and a few sources
• It will likely be featured in the larger models (like the Countryman) in the MINI line-up due to the extra components needed. In fact we’d be surprised if it was featured in anything BUT Countryman based models.
• Because of the last bullet we look for this to be based on the 120 hp four cylinder Cooper engine from the current MINI generation.

Fast forward a few years and we could be seeing Hybrid Countryman and Clubman models with three cylinder hatchbacks and convertible all getting around or over 50 mph on the highway while being even quicker than today’s cars. And that’s not to even mention the new MINI City car coming around 2015. Not a bad future in our minds.

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

It all started with that simple iPod connector that debuted in 2003 in BMWs and MINIs. The idea of connecting technology from outside the car and allowing it to power the infotainment center in the dash. Fast forward seven years and MINI has finally taken a giant leap with MINI Connected.

In fact leap isn’t even the right word. In reality Connected is a watershed moment in automotive technology for the simple fact that it takes software development out of seven year automotive cycles. And equally important it introduces app like mentality that allows for software development to focus on new features that are built on robust platform. That means MINI can tailor the Connected app and your car’s future functionality for whatever comes next in the world of technology. What’s going to be hot in 2013? We have no idea. But in 2013 MINI can update MINI Connected and have it there ready for you.

Or you can also think of it this way; Connected allows MINI related functionality to be driven by your iPhone and then displayed on MINI’s new gorgeous hi-res display all while being controlled by the center joystick. It takes the phone out of your hand and makes the car the interface for your life.

At the recent press launch of the 2011 MINI range, we had a chance to walk-through MINI Connected with BMW Senior Engineer Robert Passaro (one of the lead engineers of MINI Connected). Robert not only talked us through each feature but gave us some background on the technology and why it was built. The idea (as mentioned above) is all about decoupling the car from the technology.

But we’ll let Robert walk you through the system. Here’s a quick video of Robert and myself going through Connected. (video after the break)

It was interesting to hear from him first hand about the MINI Connected delay for the US market. The official reason is that MINI was waiting to finalize the additional features (listed below) before they brought the option to their largest market. MINI didn’t think Connected was as compelling as it needed to be with just we radio, RSS and Twitter.

For the record here’s the current list of features on the European app (which will be updated when the US version comes out):

• Web radio
• RSS news reader
• Twitter client (with auto populated tweets optional that know location, temp and time)

And now here’s the full list of features that the US app will have (combined with the list above):

• Google local search
• Google send to car
• Dynamic music (creates music based on your driving and what your doing (ie turn signal, acceleration, cornering)
• “Minimizer” (tells you how to optimize the way you drive for better efficiency)
• (original feature) Web radio
• (original feature) RSS news reader
• (original feature) Twitter client (with auto populated tweets optional that know location, temp and time)

Now that we’ve talked about the technology and what we’ll have when the US version of the app and option is released, let’s talk about how well MINI Connected actually works.

Of the three the RSS reader is the one that most cries out for either a larger screen or a different system interface. Because of the space used for the MINI infotainment interface navigating through the text (or even choosing the car to read the text) can be a little cumbersome.

Twitter on the other hand is extraordinarily simple. It allows your to choose between posting your own update or choosing from three canned tweets that contain GPS, speed or temperature data to creating something vaguely compelling (ie I’m motoring on I94 and it’s 54 degrees).

By far the most interesting of the featuring in 1.0 is the web radio. The system (much like iTunes radio option) allows you to choose one of thousands of web radio stations all over the world. Even MINI has a handful of stations from Europe that stream music wirelessly. It’s incredibly compelling and would kill the need for Sirius in my next car.

All the functionality of course relies on your iPhone’s connection to broadband data. But what does this mean for owners without unlimited data plans? We spoke to MINI about this and based on some quick calculations they’ve done, even if you used MINI Connected to stream video five days a week for two hours a day (a pretty long commute) you’d only reach around 1GB. AT&T for example has two plans; one with 250MB and another with 2GB. Clearly the 2GB will be a good idea with MINI Connected. Of course that doesn’t count many iPhone owners who are still grandfathered in with old unlimited plans.

The app currently supports five languages and will be expanding in 2011. And speaking of expanding MINI didn’t give anything away in regards to what platform is next. However if we had to guess (from reading body language) it would likely have to be some form of Android. Of course what form and what flavor of Android it’ll be compatible with is anyone’s guess. After that we’d guess a stripped down version would be available for Blackberry.

But there was one more technology we got to play with at the 2011 MINI press launch; iPod out. Ever since that first iPod/car connection in 2003 automakers have been struggling to create a way to control iPods and now iPhones. To answer this MINI and Apple have worked together to create a standard called iPod out. The technology enables the MINI Connected system to display the familiar iPod navigation menu in the vehicle’s main center speedo display, and control the music playback features in the iPhone, the iPod touch and the latest generation iPod nano, using the vehicle’s controls.

The interface is designed by Apple and because it’s symbiotic, it’s very fast. Better yet, features can be added by Apple courtesy of updates to the iOS. It’s the ultimate way to get your iPhone or iPod playing through your MINI.

MINI Connected is a technology that is good and about to get much better. It’s an automaker ceding control to allow for better technology, more integration and future proofing of the cars we buy. For MINI it’s an easy way to always make sure the customer has the entertainment and functionality they want. For us it’s an easy way to always have the latest technology in our cars. It’s a classic win win and we can’t wait to see it hit the US market-place.

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