World Debut: The New (Refreshed) MINI

(Photo and video gallery can be viewed after the break) The 2011 MINI is here and it’s refreshed and completely both inside and out. All existing MINI models – Hatch, Clubman and Convertible – benefit from design refresh to both exterior and interior. At the front, a new bumper with a lower air intake serves not only to update MINI’s face but also to improve pedestrian protection courtesy of larger deformation zones. New style fog lamps adorn either side of the air intake which on MINI One and Cooper features a black cross bar to emphasize the car’s low, wide stance. On the Cooper S two purposeful air intakes help cool the brakes in extreme situations (something MINI enthusiasts have been asking for since 2002).

Digging deeper into the updates you’ll notice both the front and rear lights are new. The optional Xenon lights now feature adaptive control that follows the angle of the steering wheel (effectively lighting around corners). The side indicator has a distinctive design of concentric circles and sits in the redesigned side gill housings.

At the rear, a new bumper the tail and brake lights are now LEDs while the brake lights use dynamic intensity lighting that varies according to the deceleration force applied. Pulsating light affords following drivers an opportunity to gauge the urgency of the braking. The LED (finally) design also gives a distinctive look at night. Integrated reversing and rear fog lamps are also new and are housed in the rear bumper.

Along with five new paint colors and five new wheel designs the 2011 MINI models are subtlely different, yet decidedly refreshed.

Interior

The interior of all MINI models has undergone a significant makeover as well. The centre console, the steering wheel and the air conditioning and audio controls have all been modified with higher quality plastics and a new matte black finish. They also serve to add functionality and improve ergonomics – something long sought by many of us. Apart from the practical benefits of the new interiors, the ambience is further enhanced by new materials and color options. In total there are six new upholstery choices, three new fascia options and two new interior colour lines for door and side panels.

The New JCW: Now with more Red

While the 2011 JCW doesn’t feature any increase in power, they are some new unique options offered for the first time. Specifically the JCW will be offered with an Inverse color option. It is Chili red with a contrasting colour for the roof and door mirrors. Complementing this unique treatment will be the option of Black Challenge alloy wheels, while inside the standard equipment includes anthracite instruments, a Chili red fascia, black lounge leather seats with red piping, red stitching on the gear-and hand-brake lever and red trim on the ignition key. At this time it’s unclear if MINI is throwing in the lounge leather seats for free. We’d guess not but it’s certainly not a bad idea when it comes to increasing the value of the pricey JCW.

One very interesting decision by MINI regards the lights. For 2011 every MINI model will have black headlights as an option. That is of course with one exception; the JCW model. This is exactly the opposite that we would expect and in fact the opposite of what we’ve told MINI to do for the past two years on these pages.

A final note on the US spec JCW. There is a rumor (obviously unconfirmed) that the US market will be joining the UK is offering the JCW aerokit as standard on all JCWs from 2011 on. We have our doubts but we’ll know more soon.

MINI Connected

Information and entertainment is ever changing and MINI has responded with a new audio, Bluetooth and navigation systems that offer countless ways to integrate into your life.

All radio systems in the refreshed MINI range are equipped with a CD player and AUX-in connection that supports MP3 players and features DAB radio standard across the MINI range (MINI First . The optional MINI Radio Visual Boost and MINI Navigation system use a 6.5” high resolution widescreen colour monitor in the centre of the dashboard and the redesigned navigation system now incorporates an much improved map display layout. It’s unclear if the US market will get the visual boost radio (essentially a radio using the 6″5 high-res display) but given other automakers use of displays with similar audio systems it would make sense.

The updated center console houses Bluetooth hands-free phone preparation including a USB interface. These interacting technologies permit audio streaming from appropriate mobile devices and the display of album covers and new office functions such as email. Apple iPod compatible videos can also be viewed on the board monitor however the technology behind this is a little unclear at the moment. Suffice to say we’ll have more on that in the days ahead.

MINI Connected (optional) now offers owners of an Apple iPhone a range of functionality including web radio, which allows you to listen to any radio station in the world that has a web address, Google Local Search and Google Send to Car. The system can also receive RSS news feeds and uses a range of MINI services. Users can even read Facebook and Twitter messages and even send standard text messages. With the voice control option messages can be readout on a text-to-speech function.

Engines Updated

First the Cooper. The R60 Cooper has 122 hp up two from the previous configuration of the naturally aspirated Prince engine. Yes it’s just a slight increase but there are a lot of changes under the surface. The naturally aspirated 1.6L gets a new map regulated oil pump that adjusts pressure and volume based on needs of engine (and not just engine speed as before). It results in a 3% fuel savings and allows for the whole system to heat quicker in cold weather (due to it not engaging in cold starts when it’s not needed).

The MPG ratings haven’t been released yet but we expect final figures to be around 2 mpg higher on the highway.

Even more impressive is what MINI have done to the Cooper S. Yes there’s more power, but lets focus on efficiency first. The R60 MCS will reach the same mpg (not a typo) on the highway thanks to a more substantial upgrade. In fact CO2 levels go from only 140 gm to 143 despite the turbo and the extra 60 hp. The MCS sees all the same updates that the Cooper gets but with the major addition of fully variable valve train (Valvetronic as BMW calls it) along with refinements of friction point throughout the engine. The result is an increase of around 10hp for approximately 182 hp (final US figures are forthcoming).

Valvetronic gives the Cooper S the ability to rev quicker, deliver more power yet achieve better miles per gallon. A win win by all accounts.

When I spoke with the MINI engineer that lead the development of the revised engines, he noted that all of these additions to the range are patented and will only show up in the MINI range. I probed a bit more and he expanded on the relationship with PSA a bit. For one BMW handles all development separately and in fact PSA is only in charge of purchasing components. All Prince engines are assembled in the UK at Hamms Hall with only the block coming from France. Additionally he pegged the ratio of British to French parts at around 80/20.

And that cold start issue? It’s eliminated with the new engine. For the sake of the MotoringFile reader I continued to press him a bit and he let slip that the issue was caused by a production problem from a supplier. However problems with current engines have been rectified with a fix sent to dealers earlier this year according to the engineer.

How is this new power translated to the road you ask? It was impossible to feel the difference in acceleration (and power) between a 2010 Cooper S and the 2011 Countryman Cooper S with the new engine simply because of the added weight the R60 carries. However I could detect a difference in the eagerness of the car to rev and some subtle changed to the clutch and shift feel.

The transmissions also see some substantial revisions on the 2011 models as well as the Countryman. The Countryman features unique ratios and a taller shift lever but aside from that all changes carry over to the 2011 models as well.

The biggest upgrade is the entirely new clutch that is now self adjusting. This provides a more consistent pedal feel and we’re told should be a little more robust than the previous version. The flywheel is now a dual mass unit that adds a bit more comfort in regards to smoothness and sound. Also new are carbon based shift cables that add an even smoother feel and should last the life of the car.

The result is gearbox that feels even more slick than before. While it lacks the positive feedback of some of the better BMW gearboxes, it’s certainly a step up from any of the competition (I’m looking at you VW) and a noticeable improvement over the previous system.

The six speed automatic is also upgraded in several key ways. The biggest change comes with a system called neutral control. At idle (with your foot on the brake) the auto equipped Countryman (and any other revised 2011 MINI) will subtly de-couple from the previous engaged gear. Once you lift off the brake the transmission re-engages with the previous gear. The net result is a subtle gain in efficiency. In sport mode this system is off for optimized (and more immediate) acceleration.

Another improvement in the auto is stop and go detection which can tell when you’re in stop and go driving and change the shift program to stay almost entire in 2nd for smoother operation.

Initial Thoughts

We’re still sifting through information from sources as the officially releases make no mention of revised shocks and steering electronics (both rumored). We also don’t have photos of all the new colors inside and out. Make no mistake, this is just the start of us learning about the 2011 MINI refresh. But what do we think as a whole? Despite the lack of sheet metal changes (the only technical one being the Cooper switching to the Cooper D hood) this is a pretty impressive update for MINI. More power and efficient engines, updated design inside and out plus a huge upgrade in technology in the cockpit. Not a bad way to run out the last 2-3 years of production for the 2nd generation MINIs.

There will be many articles and plenty of drives and reviews in the coming months of MotoringFile so we’ll hold off on too much more judgement at this point. However until then, you can see the entire photo gallery and official release below.

Full Gallery

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Official Videos

Overview

R57 Convertible

R55 Clubman

Official Release

(This is the EU version of the official release. There is no US specific information at this time.) The global market launch on 18 September 2010 will see a brace of all-new diesel engines joining the portfolio alongside the extensively upgraded petrol engines already available for the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible. The four-cylinder diesel units stand out with their greater pulling power, efficiency and smoothness – qualities developed on the back of the BMW Group’s outstanding expertise in the field of engine development. Added to which, far-reaching MINIMALISM technology helps to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The new MINI One D (66 kW/90 hp) and new MINI Cooper D (82 kW/112 hp) set a new benchmark in efficiency with average fuel consumption of 3.8 litres per 100 kilometres (74.3 mpg imp) in the EU5 test cycle and CO2 emissions of 99 g/km. The variety within the model range is broadened further by the new MINI One D Clubman and the new MINI Cooper D Convertible, the first ever open-top MINI with a diesel engine.

Striking design modifications, an updated range of engines and a selection of additional innovative equipment items give the MINI family new impetus as it sets about writing a dynamic new chapter in its history of success. The MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible all enjoy the benefits of a host of new features which emphasise even more powerfully their characteristic personality, high level of quality, unmistakable driving fun and exceptional efficiency. The global launch of the new MINI family on 18 September 2010 is thus set to further enhance the appeal of this unparalleled range of premium models in the small car segment. All-new diesel engines ensure increased pulling power combined with even better economy. Indeed, both the new MINI Cooper D and new MINI One D achieve average fuel consumption in the EU5 test cycle of 3.8 litres per 100 km (74.3 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 99 g per km.

The new four-cylinder diesel engines join the extensively upgraded petrol engines already in the range. The MINI family engines cover a spread of outputs from 55 kW/75 hp in the MINI One to 135 kW/184 hp in the MINI Cooper S. Two additional variants add even greater variety to the model line- up. The launch of the new MINI family brings with it the premieres of the new MINI One D Clubman and new MINI Cooper D Convertible.

The detail-based design modifications introduced for the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible shine the spotlight on both the enhanced sporting capability of the models and their even more defined premium character. For example, the air intake in the front bumper gains visual emphasis (on the MINI Cooper S, in particular, but also on the other models), while eye-catching brake air ducts add an extra stylistic flourish to the MINI Cooper S. Elsewhere, features such as the newly designed LED rear lights and strikingly bordered side indicators represent the embodiment of cutting-edge elegance.

High-quality materials and an extremely harmonious colour scheme mark out the contemporary and exclusive character of the interior of all the MINI models. The newly designed controls for the audio and air conditioning systems ensure optimised functionality and ergonomics. And new avenues are opened up for owners to customise their car to suit their personal style. The selection of seat upholstery variants, trim elements and Colour Lines have all been updated and extended, and the range of exterior paint finishes and wheel designs also offers fresh new touches. The “design worlds” Rally, Classic and Scene serve as guides when it comes to combining these features to harmonious effect. Although the design worlds are put together on the basis of recommendations from the MINI design team, there remains considerable room for variation and additions according to customer preference.

The innovative character of the MINI family is expressed in the extended range of available equipment items. Adaptive Headlights can now be specified for the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible in conjunction with the optional xenon headlights. In addition to this, automatically dimming exterior mirrors and new ambient lighting covering an extremely broad spectrum of colour are also available. Meanwhile, the package of entertainment and communications equipment – including the innovative MINI Connected functions – breaks new ground. MINI Connected comprises globally unique technology governing the integration of the Apple iPhone into the car’s system architecture and allowing its telephone, music player and online functions to be operated using a joystick, steering wheel buttons and the on- board monitor. An application available from the Apple App Store enables users to receive Facebook and Twitter posts inside the car, display them on the on-board monitor and have them read out via the optional MINI Connected voice output function. The application also comes with the web radio function, reception capability for RSS news feeds, the usage package for Google local search and Google Send to Car services and the Dynamic Music function.

New diesel engines: increased pulling power, CO2 emissions cut to 99 g/km. A new generation of turbo-diesel engines enables the members of the MINI family to build further on their already outstanding position as far as efficiency is concerned. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder units embody the superlative level of development expertise within the BMW Group. Their combustion chambers have the same optimum ratio between bore and stroke as the 2.0-litre engines fitted in BMW cars, with a specially designed engine housing and likewise made-to-measure cylinder head making the transversely mounted units the perfect fit for the MINI models. The engines boast common-rail direct injection and a turbocharger with variable turbine geometry, which provides precisely-judged power development throughout the rev range. The new units benefit from a programme of substantial optimisation over the engines they replace – improving both responsiveness and efficiency. Their aluminium construction makes them extremely lightweight, and they also break new ground in the small car segment in terms of engine acoustics.

Both the MINI Cooper D and MINI One D are fitted with a diesel particulate filter and oxidation catalytic converter. These are accommodated within the same housing, are maintenance-free, go about their business so unobtrusively that the driver would not know they were there, and do not require any additional assistance to do their jobs. Like all MINI models, the new turbo-diesel variants also meet the EU5 emissions standard.

The potential of the new turbo-diesel concept in the MINI Cooper D is particularly impressive. Maximum output of 82 kW/112 hp at 4,000 rpm and peak torque of 270 Nm (199 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 2,250 rpm are a recipe for instantaneous responses and impressive power development. The dash from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) takes a mere 9.7 seconds on the way to a top speed of 197 km/h (122 mph). The new MINI Cooper D boasts average fuel consumption in the EU5 test cycle of 3.8 litres per 100 km (74.3 mpg imp) and achieves a new best CO2 emissions mark of 99 g per km.

MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible also set new benchmarks in efficiency. The more powerful of the two turbo-diesel engines in the new MINI Cooper D Clubman generates acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.2 seconds and a top speed of 197 km/h (122 mph). The average fuel consumption of this model in the EU test cycle has been reduced to 3.9 litres per 100 km (72.4 mpg imp), combined with CO2 emissions of 103 g per km.

The launch of the new MINI family also sees the debut of diesel technology in the brand’s open-top variant. The MINI Cooper D Convertible blends the outstanding efficiency of the new turbo-diesel with a still unmatched level of top-down driving pleasure in the small car segment. The MINI Cooper D Convertible accelerates from a standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in
10.3 seconds and is capable of a 194 km/h (121 mph) top speed. The sporting credentials of the new model variant are complemented by average fuel consumption of 4.0 litres per 100 km (70.6 mpg imp) in the EU test cycle and CO2 emissions of 104 g per km.

MINI One D: a new engine and now two model variants.

Impressive torque available low down the rev range and exceptionally high fuel economy are also defining characteristics of the entry-level diesel model in the MINI family. The turbo-diesel unit powering the MINI One D develops 66 kW/90 hp at 4,000 rpm and places maximum torque of 215 Nm (159 lb-ft)

on tap from between just 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. The MINI One D completes the sprint from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.4 seconds on the way to a top speed of 184 km/h (114 mph). This model brings together improved performance figures over its predecessor with likewise optimised efficiency. Its average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle also comes in at just 3.8 litres per 100 km (74.3 mpg imp), and CO2 emissions are pinned to the new low of 99 g per km.

The new entry-level diesel engine is also available for the MINI Clubman. This model variant accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 11.8 seconds and reaches a top speed of 182 km/h (mph). The average fuel consumption of the MINI One D Clubman in the EU test cycle is 3.9 litres per 100 km (72.4 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions recorded at 103 g per km.

Building on the impressive efficiency of the new diesel engines, standard- fitted MINIMALISM technology also makes its contribution to further reducing fuel consumption and emissions. MINIMALISM technology is grouped into model-specific combinations, and includes systems such as Brake Energy Regeneration, the Auto Start/Stop function, Shift Point Display, electromechanical power steering (EPS) and the need-based operation of ancillary components. A standard six-speed manual gearbox channels the engine power to the wheels. Both models come with a new, self-adjusting clutch. Automatic readjustment ensures that the pedal feel you expect from a MINI is there to be enjoyed over the car’s full service life. Plus, the synchronisation of the gears is further optimised by a carbon coating for the clutch linings.

Sporting capability, efficiency and variety: the range of petrol engines for the new MINI family. Cutting-edge drive system technology boasting exceptional variety headlines the range of petrol engines for the new MINI family. The 1.6-litre four-cylinder units also boast a host of technical features whose development is rooted in the outstanding wealth of engine expertise within the BMW Group. The output spread of the new generation of engines – introduced in spring 2010 – ranges from 55 kW/75 hp or 72 kW/98 hp in the MINI One to the 90 kW/122 hp of the MINI Cooper and the 135 kW/184 hp under the bonnet of the MINI Cooper S.

All the petrol engines are equipped with fully variable valve management, which is based on the VALVETRONIC system used in BMW engines. This technology optimises the engine’s responses and at the same time significantly reduces fuel consumption and emissions levels. In the MINI

Cooper S, MINI Cooper S Clubman and MINI Cooper S Convertible it joins forces with petrol direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger, making the engine the most efficient in its displacement class. In the MINI Cooper S it delivers acceleration of 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.0 seconds yet gives average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of just 5.8 litres per 100 km (48.7 mpg imp) and limits CO2 emissions to 136 g per km.

The MINI One MINIMALIST, available in two variants, has the lowest fuel consumption and emissions of all the petrol-engine models. It can be ordered with output of either 55 kW/75 hp or 72 kW/98 hp, both options claiming average fuel consumption of 5.1 litres per 100 km (55.4 mpg imp) and CO2 emissions of 119 g per km.

Alongside the MINIMALISM technology, with features such as Brake Energy Regeneration, electromechanical power steering, the Auto Start/Stop function and Shift Point Display, all the models in the new MINI family now also boast thermal encapsulation of the entire drivetrain. This addition optimises heat storage between one journey and the next in order to minimise the friction losses in the drive unit which occur as the engine temperature falls. Moreover, fuel consumption from cold starts is reduced by a significant shortening of the warm-up period. The thermal encapsulation measures comprise insulation elements around the bonnet, firewall and side sections, and an all-round rubber seal. They also promote aerodynamic optimisation, which in turn also helps to enhance efficiency. The improved use of heat has benefits for passenger comfort as well; in colder outside temperatures the stored heat can be used effectively to quickly warm up the interior of the car.

Modified design: a clear nod to sports performance and elegance.

The precision-modified design of the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible accurately showcases the three models’ enhanced sporting potential. A new geometry for the front bumper allows them to meet increasingly stringent pedestrian protection requirements even more effectively, and larger deformation zones serve to reduce the risk of injury in a collision with a pedestrian or cyclist. The new details merge in subtly with the overall appearance of the new models. The designers went to great lengths with the three-dimensional sculpting of the newly designed body elements to ensure that the customary MINI proportions, including its short overhangs, were kept intact.

The modifications in the lower section of the front apron are considerably more prominent. Here, the borders of the positioning light units and foglamps now have more pronounced three-dimensional contours. The lower air intake

on all the model variants is also given greater visual emphasis. On the MINI One and MINI Cooper, a black cross-piece accentuates the width of the car, while outer air intakes (optionally with chrome frames) on the MINI Cooper S guide cool air to the brake discs and add an extra edge to the sporting appearance of this model variant.

The hallmark MINI circular headlights have newly-designed light sources with modified styling. Black headlight reflectors, which were first featured in the MINI 50 Camden anniversary model, are available as an option for all models, with the exception of the MINI John Cooper Works.

Looking at the car from the side, the new design of the familiar MINI side indicator surrounds between the front side panel and the door provides an extra, finely-judged touch of elegance. The glass cover of the indicators now has a striking structure formed from concentric circles. On the MINI One and MINI Cooper, the combination of shiny and matt black surfaces gives the surround an extremely high-quality appearance.

LEDs optimise both the signalling effect and contemporary appearance of the rear and brake lights on all members of the new MINI family. Standard-fitted dynamic brake lights flash to warn vehicles following behind if the MINI is braking particularly hard and prompts them to follow suit. This advanced light technology also lends the MINI models a very distinctive look during the hours of darkness. Other new features include the reversing light and rear foglamps, now located in the lower section of the rear bumper. On the MINI One and MINI Cooper these are housed in a centrally positioned and harmoniously styled red strip of lights. An additional light-breaking edge in the bumper emphasises the horizontal arrangement – and thus the broadness – of the rear of both models. In the rear bumper of the MINI Cooper S is an outlet opening whose width and contours take their lead from the design of the front air intake. The reversing light and rear foglamps are integrated into the outer areas of the rear of the car, reflecting the positioning of the brake air ducts at the front.

The powerful lines of the rear end of the MINI One Clubman and MINI Cooper Clubman are emphasised by the broader impact elements on either side of the licence plate recess. The rear bumper of the MINI Cooper S Clubman has a wide opening between the two exhaust tailpipes which replicates the form of an air outlet and is bordered by chrome edging. The extremely slim, vertically stacked rear lights of the MINI Clubman are now – similarly to the MINI and MINI Convertible – framed by an inner chrome strip.

Attractive new additions to the range of exterior paint finishes and standard and optional wheel variants offer customers additional scope for personalising their new car. The new metallic paint finishes British Racing Green, Spice Orange and – for the MINI Cooper S – Eclipse Grey can be specified from launch. Ice Blue will be available at a later stage.

Extreme sports performance, exclusive design: MINI John Cooper Works. Chili Red can now be specified exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works and MINI John Cooper Works Clubman as a contrast colour for the roof and exterior mirror caps, and can be combined with the Pepper White, Pure Silver, Midnight Black, British Racing Green and Eclipse Grey paint finishes for the body. And to complement the effect, the standard-fitted 17-inch light-alloy wheels in Cross Spoke Challenge design can also be specified in black as a no-cost option.

The interior of the extreme sports model, which is powered by a 155 kW/211 hp four-cylinder engine, is kitted out with black sports seats featuring contrasting red stitching and trim elements in Chili Red. The steering wheel rim, the gearshift lever and handbrake lever gaiters also have contrasting red stitching. Another exclusive option available for the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman and MINI John Cooper Works Convertible are Lounge Leather seats with red piping. The instruments of these three model variants are fitted as standard with anthracite-coloured dials.

Design worlds help to achieve detailed customisation.

The range of seat upholstery, interior colours, trim elements and Colour Lines for all other models of the new MINI family has also been extensively revised. Among the newly introduced options are the Cross Check cloth/leather combination, the interior colour Polar Beige, trim elements in Striped Alloy, Black Checkered and Pepper White, and the Satellite Grey and Toffy Colour Lines.

The selection of available colours and materials is set out on a model-specific basis. What’s more, the Rally, Classic and Scene “design worlds” have been introduced for the first time as a basis for creating a configuration of the MINI, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible which fits the owner’s personal style. Each of these design worlds comprises a carefully coordinated combination of body paint finish, roof colour, wheel design, interior colour, upholstery, trim elements, Colour Line and other visual details. They represent a recommendation by the MINI design team and lend each car an extremely coherent character. In customary MINI style, additional – and almost limitless – customisation can be achieved by varying the individual components of each design world and adding further items from the extensive range of equipment and accessories.

All the models in the new MINI family come as standard with a wealth of interior features which underline their high level of quality even more strikingly than before, as well as ensuring optimised functionality. The distinctive design of the cockpit, all the controls and the door and side trim exudes cutting-edge exclusivity, a virtue now accentuated further by an extremely harmonious colour scheme and high-quality materials. All of the buttons and switches (and their surrounds) on the centre console below the Centre Speedo are now black, as are the controls and framing of the audio system display. The air conditioning controls are bordered by a chrome ring, and another chrome highlight can be found in the steering wheel. The keypads of the optional multifunction steering wheel are also in black.

MINI premiere: Adaptive Headlights.

All models can be ordered with a selection of innovative equipment features to enhance comfort, safety and the familiar MINI personality. Adaptive Headlights are available for the first time for a MINI in conjunction with the optional xenon lights. This technology allows the headlights to follow the line of upcoming corners to ensure illumination of the road surface. The steering angle, yaw rate and speed of the car are all taken into account in determining the beam angle of the headlights. In addition, customers can now specify an automatic dimming function not only for the rear-view mirror but for the exterior mirrors as well.
The optional ambient lighting uses three LEDs to provide an extremely broad spectrum of colour covering a total of 756 shades. This allows the lighting in the interior to be adjusted even more widely. The MINI Clubman is fitted with a new retractable roller-type luggage compartment cover. Added to which, the belt guide for the right-side front seat has been optimised to make it easier for rear passengers to get in and out through the rear-hinged Clubdoor.

First-class entertainment and communications.

The new audio and navigation systems and optional integration platforms for external music players and mobile phones all offer top-class entertainment and communications capability. All the radio systems include an MP3-compatible CD player and AUX IN connection to hook up external music players with the on-board audio system. Even the standard-fitted MINI CD radio comes with six loudspeakers. The optional MINI Boost CD radio boasts newly designed controls, and the radio’s volume control and station selector are now positioned at the same level.

The MINI Visual Boost radio and MINI navigation system come with a 6.5-inch high-resolution display in the Centre Speedo and a Bluetooth hands-free facility with USB audio interface. The maps for the MINI navigation systems are stored on an on-board Flash memory device and can be updated via a USB interface. The map display can be viewed in a day and night mode. Also, when the car is stationary, video files stored on a compatible Apple iPod can be viewed on the on-board monitor.

In conjunction with the Bluetooth mobile phone preparation with USB audio interface, which also includes a snap-in adapter in the centre console with charging function and a roof aerial, both the MINI Visual Boost radio and MINI navigation system allow the use of add-on functions supported by a connected mobile device. These include audio streaming via Bluetooth, album cover artwork display on the on-board monitor and innovative office functions. For example, caller lists stored on a mobile phone and business cards from contacts can be viewed on the on-board monitor. In addition, the optional voice output function allows calendar entries recorded in a smartphone to be read out.