Mini Goodwood packs the heart of a Rolls-Royce for Shanghai

While it may seem anathema to American tastes, in the Old World, bigger is not always better. Particularly if you live in a city laid out long before the advent of the automobile. But overseas buyers can still have extravagant tastes, so downsizing to a smaller vehicle to get around densely-packed cities shouldn’t necessarily equate to losing out on those little touches that make a high-end automobile what it is. Hence cars like the Ferrari edition Abarth 695, the Maserati edition Alfa MiTo, the Aston Martin Cygnet, and this: the Mini Inspired by Goodwood.

A joint effort between the two subsidiaries of BMW in England, the Mini Insipired by Goodwood (named for the home of Rolls-Royce) is set to be unveiled shortly at the Shanghai Motor Show. Mechanically, it’s essentially a Mini Cooper S, packing the same 1.6-liter turbocharged four with 181 horsepower and 177 lb-ft of torque (192 hp on overboost).

The exterior is distinguished by Diamond Black Metallic – a color straight from the Rolls-Royce catalog (or alternatively, Mini’s own Reef Blue Metallic) – with 17-inch multi-spoke alloys and the requisite special badging. But like a Disney character seeking access to a secret, lion-shaped desert cave, it’s what’s inside that counts: Rolls-Royce craftsmen have collaborated with the Mini Yours custom orders department to trim the Cooper’s cabin out in Cornsilk leather, Walnut Burr wood trim, black Nappa leather upper dashboard, thick-pile carpeting… the works, in other words – everything you’d expect from a Rolls-Royce cabin, only smaller.

There’s a lot to love here, but try not to love it too much: only 1,000 examples will be made, and as with all BMW-related option packages, we’re sure it won’t be cheap. Even though deliveries start about a year from now, we see this car going down a storm, so you’d better get your order in quick.

[Source: Mini]

PRESS RELEASE:

MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD: THE HIGHEST IN EXCLUSIVITY.

• Limited production model from the MINI Yours range of special edition vehicles and options
• Based on the MINI Hardtop, this special edition includes authentic Rolls-Royce materials, colors and accessories
• Production limited to 1,000 units worldwide
• Deliveries to begin spring 2012

WOODCLIFF LAKE, NJ – April 13, 2011-The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, which will make its world debut at the Auto Shanghai 2011, is an exclusive special edition that adds another layer to the MINI brand experience with a generous dose of automotive luxury and exclusivity in its highest form.

Close collaboration with the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars design team at the development center of Rolls-Royce in Goodwood, England has produced a limited-run special edition MINI, whose exterior and interior design is inspired by fine materials and the British luxury car marque’s commitment to absolutely flawless workmanship.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, which will be produced in a limited edition of 1,000 units, combines typical MINI driving fun with discerning craftsmanship, select materials and a styling marked by typical British understatement of the world’s leading producer of luxury automobiles. Deliveries of the 2012 model year vehicle, which will launch as part of the exclusive MINI Yours product line, are scheduled to start in spring 2012.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is characterized by top-grade materials, the highest level of workmanship and stylish supremacy. The special edition of the MINI Hardtop was built under the guidance of the Rolls-Royce Motor Cars designer team and transfers the unmistakable style of the British luxury car manufacturer to the equally unique MINI, an original within the premium small car segment.

The exterior and interior design from the MINI Yours range: fascinating charisma and incomparable high-quality ambience.

As the first premium model in the small car segment, MINI has been a genuine trailblazer, the unsurpassed scope of its equipment features and accessories allowing it to meet the most varied requirements. And now MINI fans can express their appreciation of exclusive individuality, eye for stylish elegance and penchant for uncompromising premium quality with even greater sophistication.

Inside the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, a harmonious color concept, selected materials and a production quality characterized by precise craftsmanship guarantee the highest degree of well-being and comfort.

The dashboard, including the surrounds of the central instrument and the air vents, the center console, carpet surfaces, the Lounge leather seats, the roof lining as well as the door, side and body pillar cladding boast the exclusive Rolls-Royce color Cornsilk, a warm and natural shade of beige. Only the upper section of the instrument panel, which is lined with extremely high-quality, soft full-grain leather, is in black.

The dashboard and door handle surfaces are manufactured in Goodwood and finished in Walnut Burr, a wood quality also exclusive to Rolls-Royce. The black nappa leather dashboard top, Tipped Leather Cornsilk door linings as well as Piano Black surface finishes for the buttons on the multifunction steering wheel and the controls below the central instrument all provide additional quality-enhancing accents. These veneers are selected at the Goodwood factory exclusively for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD, and the matching black dials for the speedometer and rev counter bear the same typeface as their Rolls-Royce counterparts.

Two of the most striking features of the exterior design are the body finish in the exclusive Rolls-Royce color Diamond Black metallic and 17-inch light alloy wheels sporting a multi-spoke design. Alternatively, the MINI color variant Reef Blue metallic can be specified as an option.

The chosen paint shade is also used for the exterior mirror caps and roof spoiler of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD. The exclusivity of the special-edition model is also reflected in its body design. The car’s front and rear apron are the same as those found on the MINI Cooper S, but are combined with the bonnet from the MINI Cooper D. Rather than carrying over the air scoop of the MINI Cooper S, it boasts a harmoniously flowing surface which underlines the stylishly elegant appearance of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD.

There are also high-class aluminum badges stamped with the lettering “MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD” on the side indicator surrounds above the front wheel arches and on the door sills. Another badge, also featuring the legend “One of 1000″, can be found on the centre console in front of the gearshift lever (or selector lever, if the automatic gearbox is specified).

Beyond the signature features of the special-edition model, the standard equipment fitted in the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD also meets the highest expectations of a premium car. The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD’s range of high-quality equipment offered as standard also includes Xenon Adaptive Headlights, Park Distance Control, automatic air conditioning, an onboard computer and the audio system Radio MINI Visual Boost, which includes the Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system.

Twin-scroll turbocharged engine delivers customary MINI driving fun.

The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is powered by a turbocharged l.6-liter four-cylinder engine that was featured for the first time in the 2011 MINI Cooper S. The MINI Cooper S engine ensures that the hallmark MINI driving fun and imposing power reserves are available on tap. The engine includes a Twin Scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control.

The 1.6-liter drive unit generates 181 hp and maximum torque of 240 Newton meters (177 lb-ft), which can be raised to 260 Newton meters (192 lb-ft) using the Overboost function.

The most efficient engine in its displacement class combines its outstanding power development with exceptionally low fuel consumption and emissions figures. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph is all over in 6.6 seconds, while its EPA fuel economy ratings are 35 mpg highway / 27 mpg city / 30 mpg combined (manual transmission). As an alternative to the standard six-speed manual gearbox, the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD can also be ordered as an option with a six-speed automatic.

Inspired by Goodwood, built in Oxford.

The exterior and interior features specially developed for the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD embody the inimitable style of Rolls-Royce Design. From the initial inspiration, the selection of materials and the detailed preparation of the color concept, to the fine-tuning of the production process to ensure unimpeachable quality standards, the entire development process in Goodwood was carried out in close collaboration with the MINI plant in Oxford and the BMW Group’s development center in Munich.

The special-edition car will be built at the Oxford MINI plant, where the MINI Hardtop, MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible are also produced for the global market.

Bred from the finest of stock: The MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD.

The British origins of the two brands, their shared belief in meeting the individual needs and desires of their customers, and the creative pooling of ideas between the various brands at BMW Group Design provided the fuel for the collaboration between Rolls-Royce and MINI. At the Rolls-Royce headquarters in Goodwood, southern England, Rolls-Royce interior designer Alan Sheppard has overseen the emergence of a MINI which reproduces the hallmark majestic allure of the historic luxury brand and an interior ambience born of exquisite materials and outstanding workmanship in a representative of the small car community for the first time.

The exclusive status of the MINI INSPIRED BY GOODWOOD is rooted in a materials and color concept which reflects the unmistakable and globally unique Rolls-Royce style not only in its individual component parts, but also in the configuration put together for the special-edition model.

Paris 2010: Mini Countryman WRC looks the part

When Mini first announced it was taking the Countryman to tango with the rest of the brawlers in the World Rally Championship, we had our doubts about the crossover's ability to keep the pace. But judging by the look of the Prodrive-prepped machine, the Countryman WRC should have no problem locking horns with the big boys on the world stage. Mini gave the rally racer an official unveil at the 2010 Paris Motor Show, but the company is keeping the drivetrain details to itself for now.

Not too long ago, the internets enjoyed a rash of videos showing a Countryman WRC prototype busting through the hills of Portugal, so we have some notion of the car's capabilities off tarmac. Will Prodrive's expertise be enough to help Mini keep its head above water in the WRC? Something tells us that all depends on who they stick in the cockpit.

Minor updates to Mini Cooper leaked

If loose lips truly sank ships, the interwebs would be at the bottom of the Pacific. A few shots of the 2011 Mini Cooper and Cooper S have hit the web courtesy of the keen-eyed crew at MotoringFile. As you might expect, Mini isn't exactly walking away from the iconic shape that has dominated the brand since it hit the scene a few short years ago. Instead, it looks like we'll be seeing (very) slightly reworked front fascias with something of a smiley face treatment and a host of LED lighting.

From what we can tell from these few leaked brochure photos, it looks like we can expect a few new colors to hit the Cooper pallete as well. The base Cooper will be available dipped in Spice Orange and the Cooper S will boast a powder blue hue in addition to the spectrum already available for the car. So far, we're not quite sure what to expect in terms of power or drivetrain additions, but our guess is things will continue to stay pretty much the same for 2011.


[Source: MotoringFile]

Geneva 2010: Mini Countryman

There were no surprises at the Mini press conference today in Geneva when the covers were lifted off the 2011 Countryman. We got our first look at the brand's first crossover back in January, and we can now fill you in with the full details about the mini-ute. The Countryman is obviously Mini's largest vehicle at just over four meters in length, and its optional ALL4 all-wheel drive system is a first for the brand as well.

Looking at the car in person, not too much has changed in the front of the cabin for the Countryman compared to its two-door counterparts. Aft of the front seats, however, the second set of doors opens up to two individual buckets that should be relatively hospitable for normal sized adults. Leg room doesn't seem to be in abundance, but this is a Mini, of course. A variety of gas and diesel engines will be available in Europe, but American customers can expect the same 1.6-liter inline-fours available in the current Mini range.

Celebrating the world debut of the brand's fourth model, MINI is setting one of the outstanding highlights at the 80th Geneva Motor Show 2010.

The MINI Countryman carries over the driving pleasure so typical of the brand into a new dimension. This is the first MINI with four doors and a large tailgate as well as a variable interior offering space for up to four occupants. At the same time the MINI Countryman is the brand's first model measuring more than four metres (157") in length and available as an option with ALL4 all-wheel drive.

Given all these qualities, the world's one and only premium car of its kind exceeds the limits to urban mobility, adding new features to that feeling so characteristic of MINI and winning over additional target groups.

The new MINI One Convertible is another of the new models being presented to the public at the Geneva Motor Show from 4 – 14 March 2010. With its 72 kW/98 hp four-cylinder power unit, this new version of the Convertible offers a particularly economical opportunity to enjoy the thrilling openness and fascinating agility on the road again so characteristic of the open-air MINI.

Like all other petrol engines available for the MINI, the MINI Clubman and MINI Convertible, the power unit of this new model has also been optimised in the spirit of MINIMALISM for superior performance and efficiency all in one. All of the brand's petrol engines now fulfil the EU5 emission standard and offer a – in some cases significantly – improved balance of performance and fuel economy on the road.

The MINI One MINIMALIST also making its debut at the 2010 Geneva Motor Show is a particularly outstanding example of sustainable driving pleasure the owner will enjoy for a long time. The new entry-level model is available with either 55 kW/75 hp or 72 kW/98 hp and in both cases offers an outstandingly low CO2 rating of just 119 grams per kilometre quite exceptional on a petrol engine car.

The MINI Countryman: brand new options – but still a typical MINI all the way.

Once again the MINI brand is presenting its unusual potential through a completely new vehicle concept. Offering even more space than before, featuring an elevated seating position and additional ground clearance as well as ALL4 all-wheel drive, the MINI Countryman introduces brand-new opportunities to enjoy the driving pleasure so typical of the MINI brand.

In its design and driving behaviour, the new MINI Countryman is clearly recognisable at first sight as a genuine MINI. Right from the start, the car stands out through its unique look – it is powerful, robust and versatile in all its features and appearance. Various design elements and proportions typical of the brand also stand out from the very beginning, enabling the fourth model in the MINI range to bridge the gap between the classic concept of the MINI and a modern Sports Activity Vehicle.

The MINI Countryman clearly demonstrates its provenance from the very beginning through its driving qualities. Like all models within the brand, it offers the most agile handling in its segment. Highly sophisticated suspension technology and electromechanical steering both precise and efficient guarantee that characteristic go-kart feeling further enhanced to a new level through the elevated seating position and optional ALL4 all-wheel drive. Active safety of the highest calibre is guaranteed also by DSC Dynamic Stability Control naturally featured as standard.

The MINI Countryman is available from the start with a choice of three petrol and two diesel engines. The range of petrol engines extends from the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Countryman through the 90 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper Countryman all the way to the 135 kW/184 hp MINI Cooper S Countryman boasting the most efficient power unit worldwide in its four-cylinder 1.6-litre class. The two diesel models are the 82 kW/122 hp MINI Cooper D Countryman and the 66 kW/90 hp MINI One D Countryman.

ALL4 all-wheel drive is available in both the MINI Cooper S Countryman and the MINI Cooper D Countryman. And last but not least in this context, all models naturally comply with the EU5 emission standard in Europe and ULEV II in the USA.

One of the standard features of the MINI Countryman is the innovative Center Rail storage and fastening system. Body paintwork and interior colours created exclusively for the new model, a large range of upholstery variants, decorative trim, high-end audio and navigation systems as well as numerous features specific to the new model offer the connoisseur and aficionado a wide range of options in configuring the MINI Countryman to his personal style in a unique manner again typical of the brand.

MINIMALISM all the way: more pulling power, less CO2.

The features typical of every MINI, apart from the characteristic design of the car, its thrilling, very agile handling and premium quality quite unique in the small car segment, include a truly outstanding level of efficiency. And now, after thoroughly upgrading the wide range of petrol engines available on the MINI, MINI Clubman and the MINI Convertible, the entire brand is making further progress in the consistent reduction of both fuel consumption and emissions.

Following the philosophy of MINIMALISM, the balance of performance, on the one hand, and CO2 emissions, on the other, has been further optimised on all petrol engine models. And again, it almost goes without saying that all models now fulfil the EU5 emission standard.

The MINI Cooper S with its 1.6-litre four-cylinder offering another 7 kW/10 hp for overall output of 135 kW/184 hp and with a reduction in CO2 in the EU test cycle versus the former model by 13 to 136 grams per kilometre, is a particularly outstanding example of MINIMALISM and its practical benefits. A similar improvement of both agility and efficiency results in particular from the combination of a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct gasoline injection and fully variable valve management now featured for the first time on a MINI.

The new MINI Cooper combines an increase in output by 2 kW/3 hp to 90 kW/122 hp with a reduction in CO2 emissions to just 127 grams. Delivering maximum output of 72 kW/98 hp, the new MINI One comes with an increase
in engine size, engine output and torque combined with yet a further reduction of CO2. Now also displacing 1.6 litres, this power unit is likewise available in
the new MINI One Convertible, accelerating the open four-seater from a standstill to 100 km/h in 11.3 seconds on average fuel consumption in the EU test cycle of 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 49.6 mpg imp) and a CO2 rating of 133 grams per kilometre.

The new MINI One MINIMALIST now available in two engine variants is making its appearance in the market with the lowest level of fuel consumption and emissions ever seen so far in a MINI with petrol engine. Featuring the appropriate engine in each case, these two entry-level models offer the same performance as the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One and, respectively, the 55 kW/75 hp MINI One. Thanks to optimised engine technology, Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start Stop, a gearshift point indicator and further special features of MINIMALISM, both models average fuel consumption of just 5.1 litres/100 kilometres (equal to 55.4 mpg imp) in the EU test cycle and the same CO2 rating of 119 grams per kilometre.

Enhanced networking for even greater driving pleasure:
MINI Connected.

At the 2010 Geneva Motor Show MINI is setting the stage for a completely new and absolutely unique rendition of in-car entertainment. Together with the market launch of the MINI Countryman, MINI is also introducing innovative options to further enhance the driving pleasure so typical of the brand by intelligently networking the driver, his MINI, and the world around them.

As the world's first car maker, MINI, through the introduction of MINI Connected, offers a newly developed, functionally quite unique USB interface for optimum integration of the Apple iPhone in the car's audio and infotainment system. Exclusive to MINI, this technology sets the foundation for full integration of Smartphone functions to a standard never seen before. For the first time in an automobile, MINI Connected ensures a complete network with the world of entertainment, communication and online functions, plus vehicle information, all provided by modern Smartphone technology.

The new, additional functions integrated in the MINI are activated and masterminded through the car's own control system. The prerequisite for full use of all functions provided by MINI Connected is the installation of the likewise brand-new MINI Visual Boost audio system which, through its high-resolution colour display in the central instrument and the MINI joystick on the centre console, ensures ideal conditions for convenient, simple and intuitive use of the system at all times.

Unique the world over: Web Radio and Mission Control.

MINI is proudly presenting the Web Radio function at the Geneva Motor Show as a typical example of the many new options offered by MINI Connected. Sitting in a MINI networked through MINI Connected with the outside world, the driver is able to receive his favourite radio station anywhere in the world and regardless of his current location, provided the station he would like to hear transmits its programmes also in the comprehensive database of radio broadcasters.

The driver chooses his station the usual way through the MINI Audio System, thus benefiting from very convenient and safe control options also while driving. MINI is the first car manufacturer in the world to offer this function in a regular production car.

MINI Connected also offers the option to integrate further services and functions in the car, the innovative iPhone interface providing a unique potential for the exchange of data subsequently used for an unusually wide range of infotainment, navigation and communication options in the car.
And at the same time MINI Connected provides the possibility to enhance
and upgrade every function, tailoring all features to the driver's specific
wishes and preferences.

Yet a further outstanding highlight of MINI Connected is the Mission Control function featured for the first time in the MINI 50 Camden anniversary model. Mission Control evaluates a wide range of signals relating to the vehicle itself, current driving conditions, and the surroundings, thus offering the driver – again in that particular style so typical of MINI – very helpful information and advice relevant to his current requirements. Mission Control therefore highlights the MINI's status as a genuine personality in the world of motoring, at the same time giving the driver an even greater feeling of being connected directly to his car through direct interaction.

Signals from the car are used consistently to generate new, situation-based dialogues time and again, always according to current requirements. Information typically used for this purpose covers the car's safety and comfort settings, such as the signal to buckle up the seat belts, use of the car's air conditioning, as well as current information on driving and traffic conditions, such as the outside temperature and the level of fuel in the tank.

The wide range of information and messages provided by the system once again significantly enhanced over all conventional functions, ensures an ongoing, highly meaningful and helpful dialogue between the MINI and its driver also in situations recurring daily on the road. And last but not least, MINI Connected offers a wide range of options also through Mission Control to expand and customise the mode of operation, for example through different language versions and driving modes.

Detroit 2010: Mini Beachcomber Concept

The roof, too. That's right folks, Mini rolled out a concept of a concept. The Beachcomber (see above) is based on the Mini Crossover. However, the Crossover is no longer just a concept, as it will be making its way to production soon. And it's not alone, as Mini has also green lit the Coupe and Roadster. All three will be produced at Mini's Oxford, UK plant.

Speaking of Mini, their sales were down six percent last year. Or should we say only six percent, as 2009 basically sucked as far as car sales go. In the U.S., however, Mini sales were down 16 percent, but the segment (small premium cars) was off a disheartening 40 percent. Nevertheless, the U.S. remains Mini's largest market with currently 90 dealers and the brand is looking to increase that number with an additional 17 dealers over the next 18 months.

As far as this here Beachcomber Concept goes, let's just say there's an emphasis on concept. While it does in some ways evoke the original Mini Moke – especially the slotted grille – the Beachcomber has as much a chance at seeing production as a Lamborghini subcompact. Maybe less. That said, the Beachcomber does feature all-wheel drive. And if there's anything we like more than suicide doors, it's no doors at all. No top either for that matter. What if you should get caught in a freak Malibu hailstorm? Mini says a soft roof and lightweight doors are included. So there you go.

[Source: Mini]

2009 Mini Cooper

2009 Mini Cooper

2009 Mini Cooper views

2009 Mini Cooper Interior

Base Price	$19,200-$22,600
Vehicle layout	Front engine, FWD, 4-pass, 3-5-door hatchback
Engine	1.6L/118-hp/114-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 1.6L/177-hp/172-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4
Transmission	6-speed manual; 6-speed automatic
Curb weight (dist f/r)	2546-2900 lbs (mfr)
Wheelbase	97.1-100.3 in
Length x width x height	154.2-155.8 x 66.3 x 55.4-56.4 in
Headroom, f/r	38.8-39.0/37.6-37.7 in
Legroom, f/r	41.4/29.9-32.3 in
Shoulder room, f/r	50.3/44.7-45.9 in
Cargo volume	24.0-32.8 cu.ft
EPA City/Hwy Econ	23-28/32-37 mpg
CO2 Emissions	0.62-0.74 lb/mile

2009 Mini Cooper Convertible

2009 Mini Cooper Convertible

2009 Mini Cooper Convertible Behind Views

2009 Mini Cooper Convertible Interior

BASE PRICE	$24,550-$27,450
VEHICLE LAYOUT	Front engine, FWD, 4-pass,2-doors convertible
ENGINES	1.6L/118-hp/114-lb-ft DOHC 16-valve I-4; 1.6L/172-hp/177-lb-ft turbocharged DOHC 16-valve I-4
TRANSMISSIONS	6-speed manual, 6-speed automatic
CURB WEIGHT	2750-2950 lb (mrf)
WHEELBASE	97.1 in
LENGTH x WIDTH x HEIGHT	145.6-146.2 x 66.3 x 55.4 in
0-60 MPH	7.0-10.2 sec (mfr est)
EPA CITY/HWY	23-28/32-37 mpg (MT est)
CO2 EMISSIONS	0.62-0.74 lb/mile (MT est)
ON SALE	March 2009