MINI Coupé & Roadster Launch Dates
The two most anticipated cars from MINI enthusiasts are currently taking shape deep within Munich at MINI Design. The MINI Coupé and Roadster promise not only a sportier look but a sportier driving experience than any similar MINI product before them. And the best part? Both will be coming in within 18 months.
First up will be the R59 MINI Coupé coming in August of 2011. The R59 will launch in MCS and possibly even JCW form initially (if the JCW model isn’t available at launch it’ll come shortly thereafter). MINI will be marketing the car as its most focused and hardcore product yet while highlighting the unique and personal design.
Next up is the R58 Roadster arriving at a dealer near you in March of 2012. We expect the same line-up of MCS and JCW available at launch (or shortly thereafter with the JCW).
Both cars will sport a redesigned front and rear facia and unique hood designs. Currently MINI is looking at several designs ranging from an Aston like look with the running lights placed closer to the corners. It’s all in an effort to make the two cars unique in design from their Hatch and Convertible siblings.
However has one more surprise in store for the Coupé which we’ll tell you about soon.
We expect to see final product versions in March at Geneva. Look for testing mules to start showing up this summer lapping the ‘Ring, driving through the desert and dicing it up in Munich traffic.
<p>coming in….. WHEN!?</p>
<p>Jason – sorry the code in the article somehow omitted the best part for about 3 minutes after this was posted. It’s in there now. August ’11.</p>
<p>BTW there’s nothing really new here. The only reason this was posted (really reposted if you look at our <a href="https://www.motoringfile.com/2010/05/05/mini-roadster-coupe-update-design-launch-dates/" rel="nofollow">previous article</a> from early May) is that the mainstream automotive press finally heard this news from MINI USA yesterday.</p>
<p>The moral of the story is if you want the latest news that is actually taken from sources deep within BMW and MINI, check MotoringFile and BimmerFile.</p>
<p>Really looking forward to the twins. Great news about the August delivery. Maybe they will through a 2 liter JCW into it ;)</p>
<p>Are those European or US release dates?</p>
<p>US. Jim McDowell said the same thing at a Western Automotive Journalist dinner on Monday.</p>
<p>Matt</p>
<p>Will the Coupe design allow a sunroof? Too small?</p>
<p>If the Coupe and Roadster become the success we expect them to as inidciated by the success of the Twin Concepts and of course reaction by MINI enthusiasts and of course sites like “Motoring File” .</p>
<p>Then expect a next generation to be something entirely different. The terms Coupe and Roadster will stay or for the Roadster perhaps not. The idea is to offer a more unique interpretation by having a design using MINI design elements but make it more sporty especially in terms of height and use no carry over exterior parts. basically have it’s own bodyshell away from a regular MINI.</p>
<p>Underpinnings will be carried over but with a unique body that will not share anything with the next generation MINI, The Roadster however might be replaced by a more individual looking MINI Spyder as many within BMW think the Roadster and Cabrio could be a little too close for comfort , style wise.</p>
<p>The true test of the Coupe and Roadster lies within it’s acceptance within the market but there is no denying the potential within these two cars.</p>
<p>I took a new MINI Cooper S whilst filming and photographing it in Valencia for a spin today (you will see the results in July) – makes me question if I should replace my 135i and go back to a MINI.
Dont get me wrong a 135i is a splendid car but there is something about a MINI and in the 2011 there is something that has been brought back that makes you want one again. Plus it looks fantastic with the refreshed changes , it looks more premium and feels it too.</p>
<p>Also thinking of doing a MINI spoof of Audi’s “next big thing” as an additional marketing initiative?
If you have seen the “Twist”? I was thinking about having The main character but not JT- (Sorry fans!) being asked to Join them , being handed the envelope , looking at the Audi and saying no , then he exits and drives off in a new MINI. And the players looking at each other and asking why?</p>
<p>The Countryman is the “next big thing” in Europe over 50% of production is already spoken for , MINI Cooper D Countryman being the most popular and that is before the Countryman arrives in the market.
And the US.</p>
<p>Herr26 I hope you know how much everybody enjoys your posts. I don’t always agree with your view but enjoy reading them all.</p>
<p>I do really like that they are handling the R58 and R59 as more sports oriented cars. If the Twins stay in production after the re-design I do love the idea of them having specific bodies. I also think moving the R58 closer to a spyder will really help. I think the current design works pretty good but it is close to the R57 in many ways.</p>
<p>I have a huge amount of hope that MINI is watching the huge volume of money spent in the aftermarket tuning their cars and realizes that a large portion of that is performance related. I think this is a huge testimonial for the thirst for a more powerful MINI. I would lay money on the fact that if they build these cars to set new performance for the brand the market would be there. I think if its left being only slightly upgraded over the standard cars their future or more mixed (I think the sales figures of the current JCW bear out this view).</p>
<p>Anyone want to speculate on pricing? Where do they fit into the line?</p>
<p>Yes, MINI, if you read Motoringfile like you’ve said you do, hear us enthusiasts, and hear us well:</p>
<p>The idea of a high(er) performance MINI (ahem… MORE POWER), is extremely appealing, and desired.</p>
<p>Do you realize how much money is spent in the aftermarket to get your current and past products to go faster? significant money spent on smaller diameter supercharger pulleys, intakes, exhausts, dyno tuning, larger turbos, intercoolers, twincharge kits, etc.</p>
<p>I, myself, have poured a huge chunk of change into my MINI Cooper S, seeking more power.</p>
<p>Give us enthusiasts what we’re salivating for! Please!</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Yes, MINI, if you read Motoringfile like you’ve said you do, hear us enthusiasts, and hear us well:</p>
</blockquote>
<p>The great thing is yes – they do read the site and pay attention to the comments.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Anyone want to speculate on pricing?</p>
</blockquote>
<p>We at MF did last year but to some it up, expect this to be a premium product like the R57 is.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I took a new MINI Cooper S whilst filming and photographing it in Valencia for a spin today (you will see the results in July) – makes me question if I should replace my 135i and go back to a MINI. Dont get me wrong a 135i is a splendid car but there is something about a MINI and in the 2011 there is something that has been brought back that makes you want one again. Plus it looks fantastic with the refreshed changes , it looks more premium and feels it too.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>I’m currently driving a MCS Mayfair and was thinking the same thing. I really miss the MINI driving experience but it’s gong to be hard to pass up an 1M.</p>
<p>“…expect this to be a premium product like the R57 is.”</p>
<p>Well, that will push a number of us right out of the market. Too bad. It looked like fun.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>Well, that will push a number of us right out of the market. Too bad. It looked like fun.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>What do you hope it will be for the MCS Coupe?</p>
<p>I am with you on the 1M Gabe, likely to replace our 06 R53 with a R59 (likely will check out if they do something worthy on the performance side with JCW for it) likely just the base car though since money right now is better spent in the aftermarket than with MINI on the performance side.</p>
<p>It only makes sense that it’ll be priced higher than the MCS. Like people have been saying in the comments; people are spending a lot of money on aftermarket products to make the MINIs go faster.</p>
<p>If the R59 is MINI/BMW’s response to our demands, ofcourse they’ll charge a premium, and it’ll be for people who want a ‘Sports Performance’ oriented MINI.</p>
<p>I wish they’d make a Justa Coopay. Everyone thinks every car needs more power, but if the Coopay comes in lighter than the hardtop (I think 200 pounds was mentioned), 120hp would be great fun. And the mileage would be great, too.</p>
<p>As for a $30,000 two-seat “sports car” with under 200hp, driving the front wheels…well, if that floats your boat, have at it.</p>
<p>Bring it
Ready and waiting.
<a href="http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4677023479_cf1120b4d4_b.jpg" rel="nofollow ugc">http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4677023479_cf1120b4d4_b.jpg</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>I wish they’d make a Justa Coopay. Everyone thinks every car needs more power, but if the Coopay comes in lighter than the hardtop (I think 200 pounds was mentioned), 120hp would be great fun. And the mileage would be great, too.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>You may eventually get your wish but it’s unclear what markets will get the proposed Cooper model.</p>
<p>MORE BLOODY POWER. And don’t tell us it’ll cost thou$ands, more, nonsense. A Jan tune doesn’t cost that and it’s a kick in the pants.</p>
<p>DO WANT!</p>
<p>…this is going to be nice people…</p>
<p>I think this is the most responds from Gabe in long time.
Must not be so busy now the press day craziness is over.</p>
p>@Gabe</p
<p>“What do you hope it will be for the MCS Coupe?”</p>
<p>I assume that when you indicate a premium price like the R-57’s you are talking about $5000 – $7000 more than an MCS hardtop.</p>
<p>Most of the engineering and tooling is already done. It involves less material and probably a bit less labor to manufacture. Isn’t it essentially an R56 without 2 of the seats and their accoutrements?</p>
<p>How about pricing it the same as an MCS hardtop? I could afford that.</p>
<p>Its quite a bit of engineering to get these cars together. It also makes sense that they aim between the S and the JCW for placement.</p>
<p>Definitely stimulating designs. Uncertain as ever about the quirky coupe cap. Might have been distinctive to accentuate the haunches with bolder, broader, and more aggressive Porsche-like looking wheel arches.</p>
<p>Overall, I think this dynamic duo has an excellent chance of scoring a home run and of successfully piquing the sensibilities of U.S. MINI enthusiasts.</p>
<p>Curious about what the mysterious (and yet undisclosed) secret “ingredient” the coupe will incorporate?</p>
<p>Another great post and more proof that MINI is determined to get its performance mojo back. Here is the pudding proof: “sportier driving experience than any similar MINI product before them”. As for the additional surprise for the coupe… please let this surprise be ALL4 so we have a tarmac rally contender right out of the JCW box! :)</p>
<p>Please let the surprise next week be a front suspension just like the Focus RS or the Megane “RS” 250!</p>
<p>As mentioned by “goat,” AWD would be great. The success of the limited production AWD R32 certainly attests to the desirability of combining superb suspension and power with improved adhesion.</p>
<p>Do MINI look after MINI owners in regard to trade in value? Does anyone know? The coupe is a very tempting replacement to my R56.</p>
<blockquote>
<p>I think this is the most responds from Gabe in long time.
Must not be so busy now the press day craziness is over.</p>
</blockquote>
<p>No I was stuck at an airport waiting for a flight for a few hours.</p>
<p>I’m #4 on the ‘interested’ list at the local dealer. I want the roadster and the timing of the release is just about right, so it comes down to price. If the final pricing is too high, I’ll get a TT or a Z4 or one of several other options. For me, value has always been part of the MINI equation, but that seems to be the one thing that has become much less appealing with the new models.</p>
<p>Jim Petersen,</p>
<p>That picture on Flicker of the black with gold stripes (I think) is the first picture of the coupe that really gets me going. My only wish is that this would be made available the first of the year, rather than late Summer of 2011. I think that I could almost talk myself into this.</p>
<p>Already got the Mazda MX-5 PRHT.</p>
<blockquote> <b>Herr26</b> …but there is something about a MINI and in the 2011 there is something that has been brought back that makes you want one again…</blockquote>
<p>I really want to believe you, Mein Herr. I look forward to sampling the new wares. Until then, I will continue to enjoy thrashing my R53 JCW. 130k miles and counting.</p>
<blockquote><b>Gabe</b> …it’s gong to be hard to pass up an 1M</blockquote>
<p>It would be very hard for me to pass up a 135 hatch with extra M goodness, not that I will ever have that chance in the US. But the 1-Series coupe just doesn’t work for me. The proportions are way too awkward. And this is coming from someone who totally digs the Z3 M Coupe, which some would argue is the poster child for awkward proportions. And the price tag of an M version 1-Series is going to be scary. $50k?</p>
<p>@ Bill in Iowa, well if you are going to get one from MINI of Omaha… get in line I am first in line for non-dealer spec.</p>
<p>I have to wait until 2012 for my roadster? That is unfortunate, as my R53 is costing me money to maintain at high milage.</p>
<p>They’ve just killed any chance I’ll buy a MINI for the next year and a half. Showing these so early can’t be good for sales. If they kept silent people wanting these kinds of cars might otherwise pick up a current-model JCW, which I almost did until I heard about these.</p>
<p>I’m very excited about the cars, and very disappointed about the wait. I’m driving my R53 into the ground at 130 miles a day for work.</p>
<p>Assuming the R59 coupe concept comes into production summer 2011 with JCW power along with less weight(200 lbs?)& lower profile, the handling & performance should be somewhat better than current JCW hatchbacks. Have also heard that the 2011 line of 1.6 lter engines may have a bit of increase in HP as well as mileage figures. One other thing…who feels seeing the coupe concept all in one color & a reworking of that rear window spoiler might be better looking & sleeker than that current two tone concept?</p>
<p>Bob,</p>
<p>I agree, the one color looks very good with a splash of red on that black one in Spain.</p>
<p>Jim: You’ll have to take the spot for the coupe as I can’t wait that long. My Miata lease runs out in November, so I’ll just have to suffer along with the refreshed JCW, Black with the Red, really like that combination. It won’t be loaded up too much, but enough to make me smile. And, yes, it will come from Regan in Omaha. I had thought about the new dealer in Des Moines, but I’ve bugged Regan so much that I’d get a guilty conscious if I went elsewhere.</p>
<p>Jim:
Oops, I forgot to mention, I’m ordering one of those bad car, the JCW, that has terrible suspension, that doesn’t have enough power that has too much torque steer, that isn’t distinctive enough, and over priced. That being said, I’m still ordering one.</p>
<p>First off, the suspension is no where near as bad as most say, I’ve drivn and ridden in one, power while it could be improved is still much stronger than the S, the torque steer can be improved upon if one does some spring work and lowering the JCW, and I’m sure the red roof on my black JCW will get noticed. And for over priced: Well, take a MIni S, add the JCW tune package, add the Brembo Brakes, throw in the cost of the Challenge wheels and see just how much difference there is in price.</p>
<p>Right, not much, and we haven’t mentioned the gray gauges, the optional red roof and mirrors, the JCW only checkered seats, or the optional black leather with red piping, or the anthracite headliner, or the free optional black Challenge wheels. Then the strengthened transmission/clutch and motor itself. Sure, a tune could probably get you over 210 hp, but just add those same improvements to the JCW engine and see where you are. That’s my take, and I’m getting one.</p>