US based BMW tuner Dinan has finally introduced (as in two plus years of waiting!) their first MINI aftermarket parts. The initial offering are available as separate pieces or in the form of the Dinan S1 Kit for 2002-2003 Cooper S ($1696). The kit includes Engine Software; High Flow Cowl Induction Intake System; Free Flow Exhaust; Strut Tower Brace; Signature Floor Mats; Serial Numbered S1 Plaque. Dinan claims a 12hp increase among other improvements. The kit comes with Dinan's typical warranty serviceable at all Dinan BMW Performance centers.

05

Dinan has a long history of serving the US BMW community with quality upgrades. However in this case it's important to note that not all MINI dealers will service Dinan parts that are under warranty. Further MINIUSA sent an internal Memo to dealers after Dinan announced it's attentions last year to enter the MINI market. The memo made it clear to service departments that any aftermarket modifications that aren't MINI approved (i.e. JCW) will void or limit the warranty on any parts of that car that the modifications effect. Basically they seemed to be saying that while Dinan may be offering a warranty themselves, MINIUSA will be treating they're modifications as they would any aftermarket tuner. Of course one can assume that this is due to MINI's very close relationship with John Cooper Works and the soon to be released catalog of JCW performance parts.

All that being said it is nice to see another aftermarket tuner throwing their hat in the ring in regards to the MINI. While Dinan traditionally represents the highend of BMW tuner spectrum, anytime someone new enters the market it forces other companies to release better products or look at improving their current ones.

Interestingly MINI Mania just announced a warranty on all their products somewhat similar to the one that Dinan offers. Maybe just a coincidence?