Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/%SiteURL%/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2009 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry.<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Mini Cooper Crossover spotted in California]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/spy-shots-mini-cooper-crossover-spotted-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/spy-shots-mini-cooper-crossover-spotted-in-california/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/09/spy-shots-mini-cooper-crossover-spotted-in-california/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mini Cooper Crossover spy shots - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mini has been caught testing its upcoming Cooper Crossover in the deserts of California, and these two prototypes, despite their psychedelic paint schemes, provide the most clear view yet of the small soft roader. What's of particular note is that these two prototypes do not share the same front end, perhaps because one is the naturally aspirated model and the other turbocharged. The trailing Cooper Crossover prototype features a more typical Mini grille with horizontal slats and a fog light at each corner. The prototype leading the pack, however, features a mesh grille and lower air intake with two inlets.

Based on the Mini Crossover Concept that debuted at the 2008 Paris Motor Show, the production version appears to have more in common with the standard Mini Cooper than the extra large Clubman model. While it does sport an extra pair of doors like the Clubman, these prototypes appear to feature rear lift gates that swing up rather than being split vertically down the center. And while ground clearance does appear to be up relative to a standard Mini, these long-wheelbase, four-door Coopers are far from being rock crawlers.

Check out the rest of our latest spy shots in the high-res gallery below.


Gallery: Mini Cooper Crossover - spy shots


[Photos: KGP Photography]

Spy Shots: Mini Cooper Crossover spotted in California originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Cooper CrossoverCooperCrossoverMiniMini CooperMini Cooper CrossoverMini CrossoverMiniCooperMiniCooperCrossoverMiniCrossoverspy picsspy shotsSpyPicsSpyShotsThu, 09 Jul 2009 19:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demand]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/bmw-to-expand-mini-dealerships-by-20-to-meet-demand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/bmw-to-expand-mini-dealerships-by-20-to-meet-demand/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/22/bmw-to-expand-mini-dealerships-by-20-to-meet-demand/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible - Click above for high-res image gallery

The next 18 months will be huge for BMW's MINI brand. Execs are looking for big sales increases by 2011, and the fuel efficient little car company is adding 17 dealerships to its retail network in that time frame to help get the job done. The additional dealerships will predominantly go to urban areas that don't currently have a MINI presence, bringing the total figure to 100 dealerships in the States. MINI is looking for a "double digit increase" from 2008's record 54,077 U.S. sales by 2011; a number that is impressive considering the current state of industry sales, but more likely due to the addition of a new model line (Clubman) as much as anything else. With more dealers in the fold, the lofty sales goals ought to be attainable, though, provided the nation's economy improves.

The first new dealer network, which comes online later this year, will be in Birmingham, Alabama. The next 18 months will see still more openings in urban hotspots like Austin, Texas and Seattle, Washington. For a complete list of new locations, hit the jump to read the press release.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible


[Source: BMW]

Continue reading Mini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demand

Mini dealership network to expand by 20% to meet demand originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>100 mini dealers100MiniDealersbmwdealershipminimini cooperMiniCooperMon, 22 Jun 2009 17:28:00 EST<![CDATA[VIDEO: Mini at 50 is <i>Rebel Without Pause</i>]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/video-mini-at-50-is-i-rebel-without-pause-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/video-mini-at-50-is-i-rebel-without-pause-i/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/video-mini-at-50-is-i-rebel-without-pause-i/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Click above to watch the video after the jump

While it's certainly fair to pick nits and say that Mini's revival under BMW has resulted in a markedly different product than Sir Alec Issigonis' original machine, it's also fair to say that the world has once again embraced the friendly-faced little guy with open arms like few other automobiles before or since. As it was in the beginning, the Mini is a bona-fide cultural phenomenon, effortlessly transcending social and economic classifications to become the darling of auto enthusiasts and trend setters everywhere. Critically, as before, it's a also great steer - a nimble, tossable car capable of running rings around bigger, more powerful machinery on-track and off.

Consider it fitting, then, that Issigonis' big little achievement celebrates its 50th anniversary with a new, nicely done short film called Rebel Without Pause. The video features both contemporary and classic Minis in both modern and archival footage, and conveniently, it's available after the jump.

[Source: Mini]

Continue reading VIDEO: Mini at 50 is Rebel Without Pause

VIDEO: Mini at 50 is Rebel Without Pause originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BMWIssigonisMiniMini convertibleMini CooperMiniConvertibleMiniCooperPaddy HopkirkPaddyHopkirkRebel Without PauseRebelWithoutPauseMon, 15 Jun 2009 15:29:00 EST<![CDATA[IIHS: Small car bumpers cost big bucks to repair]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/iihs-small-car-bumpers-cost-big-bucks-to-repair/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/iihs-small-car-bumpers-cost-big-bucks-to-repair/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/15/iihs-small-car-bumpers-cost-big-bucks-to-repair/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , , , ,



Driving a small car in the urban environs they're so well suited for can add up in big repair bills, says the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Low speed incidents in parking lots and on tight city streets are everyday occurrences that seemingly shouldn't cost a lot to set right, but they apparently wind up costing consumers many thousands of dollars each year. The smallest cars on the market also have tiny price tags, making the price of repairs a much larger percentage of what the vehicle cost in the first place. The IIHS recently evaluated the bumpers of some of the tiniest vehicles on the market in low-speed incidents, and the results dovetail with the agency's equally low impressions of vehicle-to-vehicle impact performance of small-segment vehicles. A new damage assessment criteria was used to more closely mirror reality, and the cars underwent four tests: two corner impacts and two full width impacts on the bumpers.

Of the seven cars tested, only the Smart ForTwo earned an "acceptable" rating, with most of the pack scoring "poor." Worst was the Kia Rio's startling $9,380 total damage tally, by far the most expensive showing in the test. The Honda Fit and Mini Cooper may be more highly regarded in the small car segment, but both of those models also score poorly.

In diametric opposition to what anyone might actually enjoy driving, the Smart ForTwo and the Chevrolet Aveo came out best in terms of repair costs, bashing their way to $3,281 and $4,490 in total damage, respectively. It's clear from the IIHS' testing where bumpers often failed to engage or slid under the test barrier, that the way improve on the tests is to pay closer attention to bumper position in all circumstances when designing a car. If the bumper doesn't match up properly, bodywork ends up bearing the brunt of the impact, making even low-speed collisions expensive propositions. Hit the jump to see a video and a chart of the results along with the full release.

[Source: Insurance Institute for Highway Safety]

Continue reading IIHS: Small car bumpers cost big bucks to repair

IIHS: Small car bumpers cost big bucks to repair originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 15 Jun 2009 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Chevroley Aveo IIHSChevroleyAveoIihshonda fit IIHSHondaFitIihsIIHSIIHS bumper testIIHS crash testIIHS low speed microcarIIHS minicarIIHS small carIihsBumperTestIihsCrashTestIihsLowSpeedMicrocarIihsMinicarIihsSmallCarinsurance instituteinsurance institute ...insurance institute for highway safetyinsurance institute for highway safety crash testInsuranceInstituteInsuranceInstitute...InsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetyInsuranceInstituteForHighwaySafetyCrashTestkia rio IIHSKiaRioIihsMINI IIHSMiniIihsSmart ForTwo IIHSSmartFortwoIihsToyota Yaris IIHSToyotaYarisIihsMon, 15 Jun 2009 09:29:00 EST<![CDATA[Officially Official: Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50 details and photos released]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/officially-official-mini-cooper-jcw-world-championship-50-detai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/officially-official-mini-cooper-jcw-world-championship-50-detai/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/10/officially-official-mini-cooper-jcw-world-championship-50-detai/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50 - Click above for high-res gallery

Although it actually debuted at the Mini United Festival at Silverstone late last month, the special edition Mini Cooper John Cooper Works World Championship 50 (good luck getting all of that script on the hatch lid, gents) has finally received a full slate of details and press images.

The special edition was designed to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the start of the Mini's motorsports successes, as well as John Cooper's victory in the F1 Drivers' and Constructors' Championship with Jack Brabham manning the controls. Limited to just 250 examples, the MCJCWWC50 features the standard JCW's 211-hp turbo four, along with a full slate of celebratory garnishes inside and out.

Available exclusively in Connaught Green (a new color for Mini), all examples receive Pepper White stripes down the hood and roof, a color scheme designed to invoke the livery of Cooper F1 cars. There are also cross-spoke Challenge alloy wheels finished in black, a bunch of carbon-fiber bits (hood scoop, rear diffuser, mirror caps, tailgate handle) and special numbering. The model was designed in conjunction with John Cooper's son, "John" Michael Cooper, whose signature appears on the hood stripe and on a special fascia plate.

Inside, there's carbon black leather with red piping and stitching throughout, along with more carbon fiber bits (fascia, door handles), an Alcantara steering wheel, and a six-speed manual gearbox - no torque converters allowed in this celebration.

All-in, this looks like a tidy package not just for collectors, but enthusiasts as well. No word yet on how much this limited-edition hatchback will cost, but if Mini's current pricing stratagem is anything to go by... it won't be cheap.


Gallery: Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50

Continue reading Officially Official: Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50 details and photos released

Officially Official: Mini Cooper JCW World Championship 50 details and photos released originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 14:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>JCWjohn cooper worksJohnCooperWorksmini cooperMini unitedMiniCooperMiniUnitedSilverstoneWed, 10 Jun 2009 14:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Review: 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible adds open-air fun for a price]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/review-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/review-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/08/review-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , ,


2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible - Click above for high-res image gallery

Back in 2001, BMW revived the Mini brand by unveiling a new Cooper model that updated the classic English design of the original while growing the car's trademark size just enough to fit the engineering, safety equipment and conveniences that modern drivers demand. It was a perfect play, and if Mini sales haven't exactly set the world on fire here in the U.S., that's only because the brand has been alone in teaching American car shoppers what Europeans already know: Premium small cars are worth every penny. In other words, Americans generally associate the value of a vehicle with its size - the more you pay, the larger a vehicle you should get. The Mini Cooper exists in stark contrast to this notion.

Fast forward to 2009 and we're already a couple of years into the second generation of the modern Mini Cooper, also known as the R56. The redesigned hatchback was joined last year by the long-wheelbase Clubman and the R56 lineup is now complete with the arrival of the convertible model. Our tester, a 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible, will challenge the notion that value equals size. Why? Aside from opting for the high-performance John Cooper Works trim, the convertible is the most expensive model in the Mini lineup, and the S model makes it even more so. The total tally for our tester, including $650 in destination charges, is $32,700. Read on to find out if the Mini Cooper S Convertible is packed with enough value to prevent its sticker shock from sending you into cardiac arrest.


Gallery: Review: 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible


Photos Copyright (C)2009 John Neff / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading Review: 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible adds open-air fun for a price

Review: 2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible adds open-air fun for a price originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 08 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009 Mini Cooper S Convertible2009MiniCooperSConvertibleCooperCooper SCooper S ConvertibleCooperSCooperSConvertiblefeaturedMiniMini Cooper S ConvertibleMiniCooperSConvertibleReviewMon, 08 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Rolls-Royce MINI one-off ]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/spy-shots-rolls-royce-mini-one-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/spy-shots-rolls-royce-mini-one-off/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/06/spy-shots-rolls-royce-mini-one-off/#commentsFiled under: ,


Park Lane Rolls Royce MINI - click for gallery

People love to imagine bigger and better things for the long-running MINI. Whether it's a new Speedster version or a revived MINI Moke, the platform inspires daydreaming. Apparently, it aspires, too, to a more pimped-out existence. Rumors of a Rolls Royce-branded MINI have been floating around recently, stoked most recently by a series of pictures taken recently at London's famous Park Lane MINI dealership. Sadly, this is not a production Rolls-Royce MINI. Instead, this is a MINI made for "a recent dealer event," and a MINI spokesperson told theSwitchback that a MINI Rolls has not yet been approved for production. Sorry. Still, anyone who's going to do any speculation about the MINI/Rolls-Royce collaboration could use this car as inspiration: it's got magnolia-colored leather practically everywhere, including the roof lining and the air vent bezels. Everything else is covered in walnut wood and glossy piano-black trim. It may not be a production preview, but it sure is a pretty MINI.


Gallery: Rolls MINI for Park Lane



[Source: Total MINI via MotoringFile]

Spy Shots: Rolls-Royce MINI one-off originally appeared on Autoblog on Sat, 06 Jun 2009 12:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minirolly roycerolly royce miniRollyRoyceRollyRoyceMiniSat, 06 Jun 2009 12:07:00 EST<![CDATA[Little Schnitzer: German tuner tweaks the Mini Cabrio]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/little-schnitzer-german-tuner-tweaks-the-mini-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/little-schnitzer-german-tuner-tweaks-the-mini-cabrio/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/06/04/little-schnitzer-german-tuner-tweaks-the-mini-cabrio/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S convertible - Click above for a high-res image gallery

From the base model all the way up to the JCW, there's no shortage of trim levels available for the Mini and its various body-styles. But if you're looking for something a little different, BMW tuner par excellence AC Schnitzer has released a full tuning package for the latest R57 Mini Cabrio.

The treats start under the hood, where Schnitzer takes the Cooper S and pumps it up from 175 horsepower (good) to 208 horsepower for the domestic market (better) or 226 horsepower for export (booyah!). Not the kind of tuning house to tweak the engine and leave the rest untouched, AC's also offering a limited slip differential, an adjustable suspension setup, a sport exhaust. Naturally, the buyer can trim out their Cooper with manner of visual upgrades, too, from the aero package to the various rolling stock options and all the requisite decals and interior trim touches.


Gallery: AC Schnitzer Mini Cooper S cabrio


[Source: AC Schnitzer]

Little Schnitzer: German tuner tweaks the Mini Cabrio originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 04 Jun 2009 12:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ac schnitzerac schnitzer miniac schnitzer mini cabrioac schnitzer mini cooper sac schnitzer mini cooper s cabrioac schnitzer mini cooper s convertibleAcSchnitzerAcSchnitzerMiniAcSchnitzerMiniCabrioAcSchnitzerMiniCooperSAcSchnitzerMiniCooperSCabrioAcSchnitzerMiniCooperSConvertibleminimini cabriomini convertiblemini coopermini cooper cabriomini cooper convertiblemini cooper smini cooper s cabriomini cooper s convertibleMiniCabrioMiniConvertibleMiniCooperMiniCooperCabrioMiniCooperConvertibleMiniCooperSMiniCooperSCabrioMiniCooperSConvertibleschnitzerThu, 04 Jun 2009 12:57:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini JCW World Championship 50 unveiled at MINI United]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mini-jcw-world-championship-50-unveiled-at-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mini-jcw-world-championship-50-unveiled-at-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/mini-jcw-world-championship-50-unveiled-at-mini-united/#commentsFiled under: , ,



To go along with the Mini 50 Camden and Mini 50 Mayfair, spotted at the Mini United gathering this weekend was a British Racing Green treat: the Mini JCW World Championship 50. The 50th anniversary JCW special gets an exclusive non-metallic BRG finish, Pepper White roof and stripes, JCW aero kit, cross-spoke Challenge alloy wheels in jet black, carbon black leather seats with red piping, and Alcantara JCW steering wheel, and a sport suspension along with carbon fiber bits and identifying plaques throughout.

There are no engine mods, so you can probably expect the same 208 hp in the current JCW coupe. But the exclusivity is going to cost you. According to MotoringFile's sources there will only be 250 examples produced, with the price in Europe reported to be €40,000. A U.S. allotment is still undeclared.

[Source: MotoringFile]

Mini JCW World Championship 50 unveiled at MINI United originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 19:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coupejcwlimited editionLimitedEditionminimini f1mini jcwmini unitedMiniF1MiniJcwMiniUnitedspecial editionSpecialEditionTue, 26 May 2009 19:01:00 EST<![CDATA[Rolls-Royce to build special edition Minis?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/rolls-royce-to-build-special-edition-minis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/rolls-royce-to-build-special-edition-minis/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/rolls-royce-to-build-special-edition-minis/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Gearing up for production of the Silver Ghost, Rolls-Royce recently put out the call for craftspeople good with wood, leather, and paint. If a new MotoringFile report is true, if any of you get the job, you might be making wood veneers not just for the new plutocratic sedan, but for a few special Mini models as well.

Word is that Rolls-Royce will be developing a range of "coachbuilt" factory options, lumped together as options packages for Mini that you can order at your dealer and that would be administered at the Oxford plant. It is also being suggested that the Rolls name will somehow be attached to the special Coopers as well. You can let your Mini dealer know if you're interested in the program, but based on the estimated price of some other special edition Minis, well, be prepared to pay a lot of money.

[Source: MotoringFile | Image: Automoblog.net]

Rolls-Royce to build special edition Minis? originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 17:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coachbuildercoachbuildingcoachbuiltCoopercoupelimited editionLimitedEditionminiOxfordrolls-roycerumormillspecial editionSpecialEditionTue, 26 May 2009 17:03:00 EST<![CDATA[It's a Small World After All: Official pictures from MINI United]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/official-pictures-from-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/official-pictures-from-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/26/official-pictures-from-mini-united/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,


MINI United '09 at Silverstone - Click above for a gallery of high-res images

To celebrate 50 years of all things small and wonderful, MINI held a little party at one of England's most iconic racetracks, Silverstone. The event was equal parts racing, music festival and fashion show, highlighted by a concert by "modfather" Paul Weller, he of The Jam and The Style Council fame.

This was the third edition of the event, dubbed MINI United, and for MINI's 50th birthday it attracted a crowd that was anything but mini. Some 25,000 enthusiasts made it to the party, driving more than 10,000 Minis and representing 40+ countries. Folks from as far away as Russia, the United States and South Africa descended on Silverstone with their customized Coopers.

It was also a golden opportunity to show off the company's newest specials, the Mayfair and the Camden, as well as the George Harrison tribute MINI. Common folk and celebrities alike partook, including iconic British designer Mary Quant, inventor of the miniskirt. Quant even admitted that the name of the short skirt owed more to her love of her own little car than to the garment's length.

Among the thousands of cars on hand, a bunch of customized MINIs were displayed, with artwork by designer Paul Smith, David Bowie, Kate Moss, Missoni and illustrator Alan Aldridge among others. There's a gallery of pics from the event below, and a full press release after the jump.


Gallery: MINI United event '09


[Source: MINI]

Continue reading It's a Small World After All: Official pictures from MINI United

It's a Small World After All: Official pictures from MINI United originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 26 May 2009 11:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini cooperMINI UKmini unitedMiniCooperMiniUkMiniUnitedsilverstoneTue, 26 May 2009 11:27:00 EST<![CDATA[Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden celebrate 50 years of tiny, cuddly performance]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/mini-50-mayfair-and-50-camden-celebrate-50-years-of-tiny-cuddly/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/mini-50-mayfair-and-50-camden-celebrate-50-years-of-tiny-cuddly/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/22/mini-50-mayfair-and-50-camden-celebrate-50-years-of-tiny-cuddly/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden - Click above for high-res image gallery

In case you hadn't heard, Mini is turning 50 years old, and it's throwing a big b-day bash right now called the MINI United Festival at Silverstone in the UK. It being a birthday, presents are of course involved, and Mini is giving its fan base two new models for the 2010 model year. The Mini 50 Mayfair (brown) and 50 Camden (white) aren't really new models, but rather special edition trim levels with unique colors and options. As such, the Mayfair and Camden treatment can be added to any Mini model: standard, S models and diesel-powered Ds as well as convertible and Clubman.

We won't bore you with the long list of aesthetic tweaks particular to the Mayfair and Camden (BMW does that well enough in the press release after the jump), but each of these special editions will come with a grille-mounted "jubilee placard", Mini's highest-end HiFi audio system and the brand's newest infotainment system called "Mission Control."

In true Mini fashion, the names "Mayfair" and "Camden" come from trendy boroughs around London, and at least one of the two designations (Mayfair) has been used before on the original Mini. Though the boroughs have been there for a long time, the Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden will only be around for one model year starting in Septembers, and it appears they will not be available for purchase in the U.S.


Gallery: MINI 50 Mayfair


Gallery: MINI 50 Camden

Continue reading Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden celebrate 50 years of tiny, cuddly performance

Mini 50 Mayfair and 50 Camden celebrate 50 years of tiny, cuddly performance originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 22 May 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini 50mini 50 camdenmini 50 mayfairmini cooperMini50Mini50CamdenMini50MayfairMiniCooperFri, 22 May 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: Mooted Mini Speedster could be beaten to market by Mini Coupe]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/rumormill-mooted-mini-speedster-could-be-beaten-to-market-by-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/rumormill-mooted-mini-speedster-could-be-beaten-to-market-by-mi/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/18/rumormill-mooted-mini-speedster-could-be-beaten-to-market-by-mi/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

We've already heard widespread rumors about a forthcoming speedster variant of the cheeky little Mini, but the Cooper crazy folks over at MotoringFile have reason to believe that the racy roadster will be beaten to market by a "notch-back coupe version of the car."

According to MF, the coupe figures to be the fastest and tightest offering in BMW's Mini stable, with their source reportedly saying: "Think of this model as the [BMW] Z4 Coupe of the MINI line-up."

The coupe is expected to be based on the current R56 platform, and although there was apparently talk of making the car a John Cooper Works-only model, plans are now afoot to sell both standard Cooper and Cooper S versions in order to help parent BMW generate better fleet-wide fuel economy averages.

According to MotoringFile, Mini will probably debut the roadster in concept form in Frankfurt this Fall (as we reported earlier), but the fixed-head coupe is likely to beat it to market - even though that model doesn't figure to arrive until late 2012.

[Source: MotoringFile | Image: L'Automobile]

Rumormill: Mooted Mini Speedster could be beaten to market by Mini Coupe originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 18 May 2009 13:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Minimini coopermini coupemini speedsterMiniCooperMiniCoupeMiniSpeedsterMon, 18 May 2009 13:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Spy Shots: Is this the face of the next Mini Cooper? Probably not.]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/spy-shots-is-this-the-face-of-the-next-mini-cooper/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/spy-shots-is-this-the-face-of-the-next-mini-cooper/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/spy-shots-is-this-the-face-of-the-next-mini-cooper/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Take a good look at the spy shot above. The car you see is obviously a MINI of some sort, though nobody seems quite sure what to make of it. There's a possibility that it's nothing more than a clay mock-up of a possible design direction that didn't make it into production, but it could also be some sort of early prototype for a future vehicle.

L'Automobile Magazine, the French site that the images originate from, seems to believe that this is a new version of the MINI Cooper that will be ready sometime in 2011. If so, it's clear that the car's basic shape will remain the same while details like the droopy front grille and oval-shaped head lamps will be borrowed from the MINI Crossover Concept that debuted at the Paris Motor Show in 2008.

According to World Car Fans and BMWBlog, there also exists the possibility that this is the upcoming Megacity electric vehicle, an eco-friendly offshoot of the MINI family that's part of parent company BMW's Project i initiative. So, just what is this thing exactly? Dunno. We're taking the wait-and-see approach.

[Source: L'Automobile Magazine - translated]

Spy Shots: Is this the face of the next Mini Cooper? Probably not. originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 May 2009 20:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bmwbmw megacitybmw project iBmwMegacityBmwProjectIminimini coopermini megacityMiniCooperMiniMegacityThu, 14 May 2009 20:02:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI says "Nevermind the VW Beetle, Here's the Beatles!" with new Harrison art car]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/mini-says-nevermind-the-vw-beetle-heres-the-beatles-with-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/mini-says-nevermind-the-vw-beetle-heres-the-beatles-with-ne/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/14/mini-says-nevermind-the-vw-beetle-heres-the-beatles-with-ne/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,


George Harrison's Mini Coopers - Click above for a high-res gallery

Yesterday, we told you about a one-off Ferrari 430 being auctioned off for Abruzzo earthquake relief, and today we have another special European car that is set to hit the block for a good cause. BMW has just unveiled a special George Harrison Mini Cooper that will be up for bidding, with the proceeds set to go to Harrison's own Material World Charitable Foundation, an organization dedicated "the exploration of alternate and diverse forms of artistic expression, life views and philosophies as well as a way to support established charities and people with special needs."

The psychedelic hatchback is actually an homage to George Harrison's "extravagant original" Mini Cooper S, a customized car that was given to the late Beatle by his manager, Brian Epstein back in 1966 (the other members of the Fab Four got one too). The original Harrison Cooper actually starred in the Beatles' Magical Mystery Tour movie, and the new one has been designed with the input of Olivia Harrison, George's wife. The keys to the new Cooper will be handed over to Olivia on behalf of the MWCF at MINI United, a three-day festival held in Silverstone from May 22 through 24. Official press release after the jump.


Gallery: George Harrison's Mini Coopers


[Source: MINI]

Continue reading MINI says "Nevermind the VW Beetle, Here's the Beatles!" with new Harrison art car

MINI says "Nevermind the VW Beetle, Here's the Beatles!" with new Harrison art car originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 14 May 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>BeatlesGeorge HarrisonGeorgeHarrisonMiniMini CooperMINI UnitedMiniCooperMiniUnitedSilverstoneThu, 14 May 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Rumormill: MINI GTI-fighter based on Crossover?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/rumormill-mini-gti-fighter-based-on-crossover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/rumormill-mini-gti-fighter-based-on-crossover/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/06/rumormill-mini-gti-fighter-based-on-crossover/#commentsFiled under: , , ,


MINI Crossover Concept - Click above for a high-res image gallery

With the release of the Clubman, bigger MINIs have arrived and the MINI Crossover concept signals more are on the way. Lest you think that BMW's little guys have gone truckin' crazy, there's supposedly a sporty variant of the five-door MINI 'ute in the works. The butch wagon will have 180 hp on tap to fend off Volkswagen GTIs (Autocar's confusing assessment, not ours), and if that's not enough, a Works version will deliver around 220 hp. You can't have a high-performance version without high-zoot duds, and there's bound to be a distinctive body-kit to go along with the engine's fortitude. Interior upgrades will be aimed at keeping the driver planted and looking fancier, too. Expect the first Crossover to bow sometime next year, with the slightly hotter version coming towards the end of 2010, followed by the JCW variant in 2011.


Gallery: MINI Crossover Concept


[Source: Autocar]

Rumormill: MINI GTI-fighter based on Crossover? originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 06 May 2009 19:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>mini clubmanmini coopermini crossmanmini crossman cuvmini crossovermini crossover conceptmini gtmini gtimini gti fighterMiniClubmanMiniCooperMiniCrossmanMiniCrossmanCuvMiniCrossoverMiniCrossoverConceptMiniGtMiniGtiMiniGtiFighterWed, 06 May 2009 19:02:00 EST<![CDATA[Pink Panther: MINI reveals designer special for Life Ball 2009]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/03/pink-panther-mini-reveals-designer-special-for-life-ball-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/03/pink-panther-mini-reveals-designer-special-for-life-ball-2009/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/05/03/pink-panther-mini-reveals-designer-special-for-life-ball-2009/#commentsFiled under: , ,

2009 MINI Life Ball by The Blonds - Click above to view in high resolution

If you were waiting for that grand-prix-edition Mini to hit the roads, you may want to wait a little longer, 'cause this ain't it. What you're looking at instead is a (thankfully) unique MINI cabrio prepared for Life Ball 2009.

MINI has participated in the premier European AIDS fundraiser the past nine years, annually commissioning another designer to reinterpret its fashionable little retromobile. Previous editions were designed by Diesel (long before the Diesel Fiat 500), Versace (before teaming up with Lamborghini) and Agent Provocateur (which tickled Max Mosley pink), to name just a few. This year, however, Mini solicited the - um -- "talents" of Hollywood fashion icons The Blonds, known among the red carpet crowd for dressing top pop stars. Their inspiration for the pink leopard-print 2009 Life Ball MINI, believe it or not, was neither cartoon panther nor French detective, but Katy Perry, the singer popularized by the hit song "I Kissed a Girl", who will perform at the gala in Vienna on May 16, where the car will then be raffled off to raise money to combat HIV/AIDS. More details in the press release after the jump.

[Source: MINI]

Continue reading Pink Panther: MINI reveals designer special for Life Ball 2009

Pink Panther: MINI reveals designer special for Life Ball 2009 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 03 May 2009 13:07:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>i kissed a girlIKissedAGirlkaty perryKatyPerrylife balllife ball miniLifeBallLifeBallMiniminimini cabriomini life ballMiniCabrioMiniLifeBallthe blondsTheBlondsSun, 03 May 2009 13:07:00 EST<![CDATA[REPORT: MINI to launch Special Edition F1 Cooper at MINI United]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-mini-to-launch-special-edition-f1-cooper-at-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-mini-to-launch-special-edition-f1-cooper-at-mini-united/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/29/report-mini-to-launch-special-edition-f1-cooper-at-mini-united/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



According to MotoringFile, internet keepers of all things MINI, BMW's cutest brand plans to launch a new Special Edition Cooper to coincide with the first Formula 1 racing car ever created by legendary British racer and company namesake John Cooper. To stand out from the rest of the already crowded MINI pack, the Special Edition F1 Cooper will be painted up in a new non-metallic British Racing Green, which will be offset by black hood stripes plus a contrasting white roof and mirror caps. The factory JCW aerokit will also be fitted along with a slew of F1 badges.

Underneath the car's pretty exterior will be the stock powertrain from the MINI Cooper S JCW, including the 1.6-liter turbocharged and intercooled four-cylinder engine with 208 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. Expect the new edition to make an appearance at the MINI United event on May 22nd in Silverstone, England.

[Source: MotoringFile]

REPORT: MINI to launch Special Edition F1 Cooper at MINI United originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini coopermini cooper f1mini cooper jcwmini cooper s jcwmini cooper s john cooper worksmini cooper special editionMiniCooperMiniCooperF1MiniCooperJcwMiniCooperSJcwMiniCooperSJohnCooperWorksMiniCooperSpecialEditionWed, 29 Apr 2009 14:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Rendered Speculation: More MINI Speedster sketches and speculation surfaces]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/rendered-speculation-more-mini-speedster-sketches-and-speculati/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/rendered-speculation-more-mini-speedster-sketches-and-speculati/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/rendered-speculation-more-mini-speedster-sketches-and-speculati/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



We've been hearing rumors of an upcoming MINI Speedster for years, and now the rumormill is building momentum, with additional speculations and renderings of a possible Miata-fighter. If it indeed does come to fruition, expect the MINI Speedster to jettison the rear bench in favor of a sportscar-proper 2-seat arrangement, which should also serve to boost luggage capacity to a bit more than the single set of golf clubs common to the genre.

According to Auto Express, the Speedster's base engine will be the same 1.6-liter turbocharged four cylinder that's standard in the Cooper S, and an optional John Cooper Works package would boost output past 200 ponies. Expect a six-speed manual sending power to the front wheels, although presumably an automatic will make the scene as well.

Unlike the current Cooper's cheeky, upright shape (dare we say, cute?), AE suggests that the Speedster model is likely to be lower and wider, with wheel arches filled to the brim with low-profile rubber. A power convertible top is likely and a removable hardtop is also rumored to be on the menu. Now... any chance BMW will fast-track this project past the planned CUV?

[Source: Auto Express]

Rendered Speculation: More MINI Speedster sketches and speculation surfaces originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>minimini coopermini cooper speedstermini speedstermini speedster renderingMiniCooperMiniCooperSpeedsterMiniSpeedsterMiniSpeedsterRenderingWed, 22 Apr 2009 18:29:00 EST<![CDATA[MINI Cooper S Clubman joins Airstream Trailer]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/mini-cooper-s-clubman-joins-airstream-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/mini-cooper-s-clubman-joins-airstream-trailer/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/04/22/mini-cooper-s-clubman-joins-airstream-trailer/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,


MINI and Airstream - Click above for high-res image gallery

Mini puts a big premium on style, and although its cars are a blast to drive and practical for most commuters, it's the look that makes them so desirable. Being able to personalize your Mini is a big part of that equation and Mini has taken that philosophy further into the fringes by teaming up with the equally iconic Airstream trailer company to create a uniquely Mini vision of "mobile living" for the Salone del Mobile furniture show currently underway in Milan. We showed you a sneak peek of their project last month, but Mini has released more information and new images today, so we thought we'd share.

Together with Danish furniture designer, Republic of Fritz Hansen, the companies have created a concept Mini Cooper S Clubman coupled to a matching 22-foot Airstream trailer with a "down-by-the beach" feel. There's a gallery and press release (after the jump) to explain the theme in detail, but basically the Clubman features neoprene seat covers, a surfboard on the roof and some scuba gear in the boot, while the trailer is a drop side Airstream with funky modern furniture by Fritz. It's a cool bit of kit that we'd be happy to take on a trip down the coast.


Gallery: MINI Cooper S Clubman joins Airstream Trailer

Continue reading MINI Cooper S Clubman joins Airstream Trailer

MINI Cooper S Clubman joins Airstream Trailer originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>airstreammini cooper s clubmanMINI cooper s clubman AirstreamMiniCooperSClubmanMiniCooperSClubmanAirstreamrepublic of fritz hansenRepublicOfFritzHansenWed, 22 Apr 2009 16:58:00 EST