Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com Autoblog http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/feedlogo.gif Autoblog http://www.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2012 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

2014 Mini Cooper Spy Shots

Given the spate of new models Mini has introduced in the past few years, from the Clubman to the Countryman to the Coupe to the Roadster, it sometimes seems like BMW has forgotten about the original model, the plain old Mini Cooper hardtop. It was last redesigned for the 2007 model year, which seems like a long time ago because, well, it is. Which is why Mini will shortly introduce an all-new hardtop Cooper, which our camera spies have captured testing in Europe.

We're told that the new model is codenamed F56, but more importantly, its underpinnings are said to be shared with the next-generation BMW 1 Series. While Mini will continue to put four-cylinder engines underhood, there's presumably a three-cylinder in the works as well, though we're not sure whether that model will make it to our shores.

While we've seen some spy shots of the 2014 Mini Cooper before, these seem to confirm that the car will grow a bit in size, both length and width. We are told that the longer hood and greater front overhang may be the result of fake front body panels, but the new front and rear glass appears to accurately represent the forthcoming production car, which will have a more raked angle to its windshield and rear window.

BMW is expected to start production of the 2014 Mini Cooper early next year.

2014 Mini Cooper gets mellow in yellow originally appeared on Autoblog on Wed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>1 series2014 mini cooperbmwcoopercooper sminispy shotsWed, 16 May 2012 14:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20239287/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/16/2014-mini-cooper-gets-mellow-in-yellow/20239287/article-detail.xml 20239287 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/2014-mini-cooper-spy-shots-001-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Mini recalling certain Cooper S and JCW models over water pump]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/mini-recalling-certain-cooper-s-and-jcw-models-over-water-pump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/mini-recalling-certain-cooper-s-and-jcw-models-over-water-pump/http://www.autoblog.com/2012/01/16/mini-recalling-certain-cooper-s-and-jcw-models-over-water-pump/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2008 Mini Cooper S - front three-quarter view

Back in October, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration began investigating certain turbocharged Mini models for vehicle fires. The investigation came after reports of at least 12 vehicles lighting up, and now the investigation has officially lead to a recall.

NHTSA has announced on its website that Mini will recall 88,911 turbocharged models built between November 2006 and January 2011 for a water pump problem that could result in a fire. The government agency says on its website that "the electronic auxiliary water pump that cools the turbocharger has an electronic circuit board that can malfunction and overheat." If that happens, the board could smolder and result in a vehicle fire.

Affected models include the 2007-2011 Cooper S, the 2008-2011 Clubman S, the 2009-2011 Cooper S Convertible, the 2011 Countryman S and John Cooper Works models from 2009 to 2011.

Owners of recalled vehicles will be asked to bring their Mini model to the nearest dealer for a free water pump replacement. Hit the jump to read over the official NHTSA release.

Continue reading Mini recalling certain Cooper S and JCW models over water pump

Mini recalling certain Cooper S and JCW models over water pump originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 16 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooper sjohn cooper worksmininhtsarecallturbowater pumpMon, 16 Jan 2012 10:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20148983/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2012/01/16/mini-recalling-certain-cooper-s-and-jcw-models-over-water-pump/20148983/article-detail.xml 20148983 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2008-mini-cooper-s-jcw_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2008-mini-cooper-s-jcw.jpg <![CDATA[Mini adding Recaro seat option for 2012]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/mini-adding-recaro-seats-as-option-for-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/mini-adding-recaro-seats-as-option-for-2012/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/11/13/mini-adding-recaro-seats-as-option-for-2012/#commentsFiled under: , , ,



Starting next March, Mini buyers will be able to grab a set of Recaro seats off the option list for their cars. The upmarket buckets will be available for all Mini models except the Countryman and Convertible.

As you likely guessed, they don't come cheap. Be prepared to fork over a heady $3,000 for the better seats. There are other constraints. The Recaros only come in black leather and Dinamica and can only be had with built-in heaters. Still, they look the ruckus and should make Cooper S and JCW drivers even happer when they attack the twisty stuff.

Mini adding Recaro seat option for 2012 originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 13 Nov 2011 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2012 Mini CooperClubmanCooperCooper SMinirecaroSun, 13 Nov 2011 18:02:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20104980/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/11/13/mini-adding-recaro-seats-as-option-for-2012/20104980/article-detail.xml 20104980 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mini-recaro_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/11/mini-recaro.jpg <![CDATA[NHTSA investigating Mini Cooper S over engine fires]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/nhtsa-investigating-mini-cooper-s-over-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/nhtsa-investigating-mini-cooper-s-over-engine-fires/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/10/17/nhtsa-investigating-mini-cooper-s-over-engine-fires/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , ,

2008 Mini Cooper S JCW

Mini and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration have announced an investigation into certain Cooper S models after reports of engine fires on at least 12 vehicles, five of which resulted in a total loss. Interestingly enough, Bloomberg reports that in eight of those cases, the fires occurred while the vehicles were parked and turned off.

At this point, the investigation covers around 36,000 2007 and 2008 model year Mini Cooper S models. A spokesperson with NHTSA said that the complaints indicate a growing trend and that most of the reports have occurred within the last year.

Neither Mini nor the automaker's parent company, BMW, have commented on the investigation at this time.

NHTSA investigating Mini Cooper S over engine fires originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 17 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>coopercooper engine firecooper scooper s engine fireengine fireminimini coopermini cooper smini cooper s engine fireNational Highway Traffic Safety AdministrationnhtsaMon, 17 Oct 2011 16:30:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/20083521/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/10/17/nhtsa-investigating-mini-cooper-s-over-engine-fires/20083521/article-detail.xml 20083521 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2008-mini-cooper-s-jcw_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/10/2008-mini-cooper-s-jcw.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Mini Cooper S gets some jet-propelled junk in the trunk]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/video-mini-cooper-s-gets-some-jet-propelled-junk-in-the-trunk/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/video-mini-cooper-s-gets-some-jet-propelled-junk-in-the-trunk/http://www.autoblog.com/2011/02/25/video-mini-cooper-s-gets-some-jet-propelled-junk-in-the-trunk/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

Mini Cooper S
Mini Cooper S Turbine - Click above to watch the video after the jump

Every once in a while, a car comes along that really gives us pause. This is one of those times. On the one hand, a jet-powered anything is cool. On the other, this is a Mini Cooper S that utlizes its original, turbocharged inline-four and an old Rolls-Royce/Allison 250-C20B helicopter turbine to make a combined 650 horsepower that can't dust a GT-R on the drag strip. It seems a little... anti-climactic.

Still, we must tip our hat to the Floridian hoon who ordered up this beastly Mini Cooper S from BMP Design out of Tyler, Texas. His heart is in the right place, and he's sure to surprise anyone he lines up next to.

We're especially fond of the custom-made roof, which is designed to let the turbines burp their fiery exhaust without roasting the fool sitting behind you in traffic. The throttle for the twin jets, which require their own separate fuel tank, is a handle next to the driver's seat - a feature lifted directly from the chopper the engines were born in.

Regardless of our misgivings about the Mini this jet-propelled bomb is based on, hoonage on this level deserves some serious credit. Check out the videos after the break, and try not to mind the lame soundtrack.

[Source: YouTube via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Video: Mini Cooper S gets some jet-propelled junk in the trunk

Video: Mini Cooper S gets some jet-propelled junk in the trunk originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 25 Feb 2011 09:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>cooper sjetjet carjet enginejet powered carjet turbinejet-propelledminimini cooper sturbineFri, 25 Feb 2011 09:58:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19857814/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2011/02/25/video-mini-cooper-s-gets-some-jet-propelled-junk-in-the-trunk/19857814/article-detail.xml 19857814 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/mini-screengrab2_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2011/02/mini-screengrab2.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper S]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/02/2011-mini-cooper-s-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/02/2011-mini-cooper-s-first-drive-review-road-test/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/12/02/2011-mini-cooper-s-first-drive-review-road-test/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Further Evolving Sir Alec Issigonis' Original Idea

2011 Mini Cooper
2011 Mini Cooper - Click above for high-res image gallery

Henry Ford, Ferdinand Porsche, Karl Benz, Gottlieb Daimler. All pioneers in the automotive world. But this list would be woefully incomplete without the inclusion of Sir Alec Issigonis, the man most responsible for the design of the original Mini.

Issigonis once famously said, "When you're designing a new car for production, never, never copy the opposition." Sage advice, we'd say, as the Mini - a true clean-sheet automotive design, with its transverse engine, front-wheel drive and sparse seating - went on to become one of the most successful vehicles in history. And its name and likeness continue to live on in the form of the modern-day Mini Cooper, Clubman and, most recently, Countryman.

Despite the similarities from one modern generation to the next, the BMW-owned automaker is quick to point out the myriad of changes made to the Cooper for the 2011 model year, not the least of which are improvements to the engine and transmission options, resulting in more power and improved efficiency.

So, the logical question is: Do these changes make a better Mini, or are they so minor (or is that Minor?) you won't even notice?

Continue reading...


Gallery: 2011 Mini Cooper: First Drive

2011 Mini Cooper2011 Mini Cooper2011 Mini Cooper2011 Mini Cooper2011 Mini Cooper

Photos copyright (C)2010 Jeremy Korzeniewski / AOL

Continue reading First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper S

First Drive: 2011 Mini Cooper S originally appeared on Autoblog on Thu, 02 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2011 mini cooper2011 mini cooper scoopercooper sfeaturedfirst driveFirstDriveminimini reviewThu, 02 Dec 2010 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19740964/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/12/02/2011-mini-cooper-s-first-drive-review-road-test/19740964/article-detail.xml 19740964 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/lead1-2011-mini-cooper-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/12/lead1-2011-mini-cooper-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Mini shows off updated 2011 Cooper lineup]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/mini-shows-off-updated-2011-cooper-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/mini-shows-off-updated-2011-cooper-lineup/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/28/mini-shows-off-updated-2011-cooper-lineup/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,

2011 Mini family - Click above for high-res image gallery

The current (second generation) of the modern Mini has been with us for a couple of years now, so that must mean it's time for a refresh. BMW, which owns the reborn British brand, has updated the front fascia on all three Mini models for the coming model year to visually differentiate them and improve their pedestrian protection performance.

Of special note are the new integrated ducts on the fascias of the Cooper S and John Cooper Works models, offering a slightly meaner look to the Mini's cute and cuddly face. The black reflector headlamps that debuted on the 50th anniversary Camden model are now available as an option across the board and all of the Mini variants now have LED lighting at the rear.

Inside, the Minis are now available with a high-resolution screen within in the oversized central speedometer that can display video from an iPod or whatever other device that has been plugged in via the USB port.

On the engine front, updated gas engines were announced several months ago (base engine up to 122 horsepower, the turbo will now crest 180) but the diesel engines have been redone as well. Two versions of the 1.6-liter oil-burner will be available, with 90 or 112 horsepower and 159 and 199 pound-feet of torque respectively. Both diesels are more efficient than before with a rating of 61.9 miles per gallon (U.S.) and CO2 emissions of just 99 grams per kilometer. For the first time in 2011, there is also a Mini Cooper D convertible available... but not in the States.

There's plenty more for the truly Mini-obsessive among us, check out all the sordid details after the break.


Gallery: 2011 Mini Family


[Source: Mini]

Continue reading Mini shows off updated 2011 Cooper lineup

Mini shows off updated 2011 Cooper lineup originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 28 Jun 2010 09:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>20112011 mini2011 mini clubman2011 mini convertible2011 mini cooper2011 mini cooper d convertible2011 Mini Cooper S2011Mini2011MiniClubman2011MiniConvertible2011MiniCooper2011MiniCooperDConvertible2011MiniCooperSclubmancoopercooper sCooperSdieselminiMINI Cooper Dmini cooper d convertibleMini Cooper dieselmini cooper diesel sMiniCooperDMiniCooperDConvertibleMiniCooperDieselMiniCooperDieselSMon, 28 Jun 2010 09:27:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19533006/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/28/mini-shows-off-updated-2011-cooper-lineup/19533006/article-detail.xml 19533006 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/p90062346_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/p90062346.jpg <![CDATA[Shocker! Porsche 911 beats Mini Cooper in "race" at "Road Atlanta"]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/shocker-porsche-911-beats-mini-cooper-in-race-at-road-atlant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/shocker-porsche-911-beats-mini-cooper-in-race-at-road-atlant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/21/shocker-porsche-911-beats-mini-cooper-in-race-at-road-atlant/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Mini vs. Porsche - Click above to view the videos after the jump

In the over-hyped and ridiculous contrived "race" between the Mini Cooper and the Porsche 911, a victor has been crowned, and as you'd expect, the blokes from BMW had their bumpers handed to them.

Despite creating a "track" at the infield of Road Atlanta designed to maximize the Mini's potential and neuter the high-speed prowess of the Porsche, the Cooper still lost the battle by a full two seconds. Naturally, Mini likes to point out that the difference was $38,000 a second, but to anyone paying attention, the additional $76k is money well spent... particularly on a real track. Maybe Mini should've reconsidered Hyundai's offer...

Hit the jump for the race and two introductory videos, including a thoroughly comical explanation about why Mini opted for an autocross track and not the full course at Road Atlanta.

[Source: Facebook]

Continue reading Shocker! Porsche 911 beats Mini Cooper in "race" at "Road Atlanta"

Shocker! Porsche 911 beats Mini Cooper in "race" at "Road Atlanta" originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 21 Jun 2010 22:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911coopercooper sCooperSminimini coopermini cooper porsche 911mini porsche challengemini porsche raceMiniCooperMiniCooperPorsche911MiniPorscheChallengeMiniPorscheRaceporsche 911Porsche911road atlantaRoadAtlantaMon, 21 Jun 2010 22:03:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19525499/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/21/shocker-porsche-911-beats-mini-cooper-in-race-at-road-atlant/19525499/article-detail.xml 19525499 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mini-v-porsche-630op_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mini-v-porsche-630op.jpg <![CDATA[Mini reveals track for Porsche challenge, not really Road Atlanta]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/20/mini-reveals-track-for-porsche-challenge-not-really-road-atlant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/20/mini-reveals-track-for-porsche-challenge-not-really-road-atlant/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/20/mini-reveals-track-for-porsche-challenge-not-really-road-atlant/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,



Last we checked, Road Atlanta was a famed professional 2.54-mile racetrack, not an oversized autocross layout on a training skidpad. Somebody may need to remind Mini USA, as the maker of famously small cars has just announced the "track" (their word, not ours) for its overly-publicized "Rumble on the Racetrack" (their title, not ours) challenge pitting the Mini Cooper S against the race-bred Porsche 911 Carrera S.

While Mini promises "No tricks. No gimmicks. No jokes" in its latest Facebook post, the map of the so-called challenge track autocross is nothing more than a few hundred cones dropped on the "School Course & Training Area" located in the infield of Road Atlanta by turns 6 and 7 (this is hardly the same asphalt that hosts cars like the Corvette C6.R, Porsche RS Spyder, Ferrari 430GT and Audi R10 TDI at the Petit Le Mans).

With the big shindig scheduled for Monday (with or without an official Porsche showing), this event has gone from entertaining to mildly disappointing. We don't need to explain to any of our readers that a Mini Cooper S is as comfortable on a loop-de-doo autocross course as Porsche is, well... on the winner's podium at Road Atlanta.

Mini has yet to answer the challenge from Hyundai (the Koreans were kind enough to offer to take Porsche's vacant spot on the grid), but they had better get on it. With a track autocross this tight, they should be expecting a call from Smart first thing Monday morning.


Gallery: Mini Challenges Porsche


[Source: Facebook]

Mini reveals track for Porsche challenge, not really Road Atlanta originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 20 Jun 2010 09:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>breakingCarreraCarrera SCarreraSContestCooper SCooper vs. 911CooperSCooperVs.911EventFacebookMiniMini Cooper SMini vs PorscheMini vs. PorscheMiniCooperSMiniVs.PorscheMiniVsPorschePetit Le MansPetitLeMansPorscheRaceRoad AtlantaRoadAtlantaSun, 20 Jun 2010 09:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19523346/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/20/mini-reveals-track-for-porsche-challenge-not-really-road-atlant/19523346/article-detail.xml 19523346 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/minicourse630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/minicourse630.jpg <![CDATA[Update: Mini inviting 400 to watch Porsche Challenge - but who will drive the 911?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/18/update-mini-inviting-400-to-watch-porsche-challenge-but-who-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/18/update-mini-inviting-400-to-watch-porsche-challenge-but-who-w/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/18/update-mini-inviting-400-to-watch-porsche-challenge-but-who-w/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , ,

After Mini's many attempts to coax Porsche into a race, including videos, posting an online petition and even flying a banner plane over the automaker's North American headquarters, the lights have all gone dark in Atlanta, and it looks like Mini is out of luck.

But the show must go on! Even if Porsche has officially decided to decline.

Not only is Mini offering space at Road Atlanta for up to 400 people to come watch, but they're even providing a race-ready 911 Carrera S. As for who's driving, that's still up in the air. Mini posted this advertisement (right) on its Facebook page, hoping to find one brave soul who will put the mighty 911 through its paces against the Cooper S.

What's more, Mini is even offering up track time to any of the 400 guests who show up on June 21. It certainly sounds like a fun day will be had, regardless of the race's final outcome, and we're now wishing that we lived just a little bit closer to Atlanta. Remember, you can keep up to date on all of the Mini vs. Porsche happenings on Facebook.

[Sources: MotoringFile, Facebook]

Update: Mini inviting 400 to watch Porsche Challenge - but who will drive the 911? originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 Carrera911 carrera s911Carrera911CarreraSCooperCooper SCooperSminimini coopermini cooper sMINI USAMini vs PorscheMiniCooperMiniCooperSMiniUsaMiniVsPorschePorscheporsche 911Porsche 911 Carreraporsche 911 carrera sporsche usaPorsche911Porsche911CarreraPorsche911CarreraSPorscheUsaRoad AtlantaRoadAtlantaFri, 18 Jun 2010 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19521926/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/18/update-mini-inviting-400-to-watch-porsche-challenge-but-who-w/19521926/article-detail.xml 19521926 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/miniporsche630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/miniporsche630.jpg <![CDATA[Video: Mini responds to Porsche, still ready to race]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-mini-responds-to-porsche-still-ready-to-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-mini-responds-to-porsche-still-ready-to-race/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/14/video-mini-responds-to-porsche-still-ready-to-race/#commentsFiled under: , , , , , , , ,

Mini boss Jim McDowell responds to Porsche - Click above to watch the video after the jump

We'll be honest - we were rather excited to see how a race between a Mini Cooper S and Porsche 911 Carrera S would go down. After Mini initially challenged Porsche to a trackday showdown at Road Atlanta on June 21, Porsche declined, saying that it will "stick to racing the way we have over the decades," and welcomed Mini to attend any sanctioned race where "there is more at stake than t-shirts and valet parking spaces."

Mini has had a very impressive response to this challenge, and isn't giving up. Mini USA boss Jim McDowell has issued yet another message to Porsche Cars North America CEO Detlev Von Platen saying that they're willing to raise the stakes, offering prizes such as Justin Bieber concert tickets (including backstage passes!), a lifetime membership to the Salami Of The Month club or even a (slightly used) home gym, among other things. Excellent.

We love Mini's enthusiasm over this whole event, and as we understand, Mini is even flying a banner plane over Porsche's Atlanta, Georgia headquarters with the message "Dear Porsche, Bring it. Love, Mini." Seriously. You can keep up with the whole back-and-forth on Mini USA's Facebook page. In any case, with only one week until the supposed race day, we hope Porsche will saddle up for this duel, even though Mini hasn't specified what the Road Atlanta challenge(s) will be (it could be an egg-carrying race for all we know) and Stuttgart really doesn't appear to have much to gain by picking on the little kid. Top tip, Brett!

[Source: Mini Facebook]

Continue reading Video: Mini responds to Porsche, still ready to race

Video: Mini responds to Porsche, still ready to race originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>911911 Carrera911 carrera s911Carrera911CarreraSCooperCooper SCooperSdetlev von platenDetlevVonPlatenJim McDowellJimMcdowellminimini coopermini cooper sMINI USAMini vs PorscheMiniCooperMiniCooperSMiniUsaMiniVsPorschePorscheporsche 911porsche 911 carrera sPorsche Cars North AmericaPorsche911Porsche911CarreraSPorscheCarsNorthAmericaMon, 14 Jun 2010 12:59:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19515263/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/06/14/video-mini-responds-to-porsche-still-ready-to-race/19515263/article-detail.xml 19515263 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mini630opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/06/mini630opt.jpg <![CDATA[Minor updates to Mini Cooper leaked]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/minor-updates-to-mini-cooper-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/minor-updates-to-mini-cooper-leaked/http://www.autoblog.com/2010/06/11/minor-updates-to-mini-cooper-leaked/#commentsFiled under: , , , , ,

2011 Mini Cooper - Click above for image gallery

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. Thanks for the tip, Gabe!


Gallery: 2011 Mini Cooper


[Source: MotoringFile]

Minor updates to Mini Cooper leaked originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 11 Jun 2010 15:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Mini takes on Porsche - Click above for high-res image gallery

Here's something unexpected. Mini USA has announced it's challenging Porsche to a formal race, where the go-kart-like Cooper S will take on the infamous 911 Carrera S. This may seem like a far stretch, seeing as how the Cooper is down on power by over 200 horses, but Mini is confident that its more nimble, lighter hatch can out-maneuver the big 911 on the track.

This certainly isn't the first automaker challenge we've heard of this year, and we're hoping Porsche steps up to the plate. The event will take place on June 21 (that's in two weeks!) at Road Atlanta, which as Mini points out, is right around the corner from Porsche's North American headquarters.

In the video found after the jump, Mini USA's president, Jim McDowell (a former Porsche executive, we might add), explains the whole deal, and says that if his team loses, he'll wear a shirt that reads "We did not beat Porsche" at his next public appearance. Likewise, he has a "We beat Porsche" shirt prepped for the same occasion. Mini will be hosting a live video of the event on their Facebook page, as well as more information about the event. Will Porsche send out a 911 for the challenge? We certainly hope so. Let the games begin.


Gallery: Mini Challenges Porsche


[Source: Facebook via Jalopnik]

Continue reading Mini challenges Porsche to race at Road Atlanta [w/video]

Mini challenges Porsche to race at Road Atlanta [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 08 Jun 2010 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2010 Mini Cooper - Click for high-res gallery

Over in Europe, Mini has rolled out a thing or two to keep its offerings fresh. There's some model jiggering and new colors, but the biggest news is under that peewee hood. The four-cylinder engine is receiving a displacement bump from 1.4- to 1.6-liters. In naturally aspirated and turbocharged configurations, the engine is now torquier and more efficient. Output ranges between 75 and 184 horsepower, and carbon emissions are improved; Mini is calling it "more poke with less smoke."

Turbocharged versions get a new twin-scroll huffer with an overboost function, while all versions of the engine are equipped with a Valvetronic-derived system that aids the engine's better torque delivery and reduced fuel consumption. Delving deeper inside the crankcase, there are polished main bearings to reduce friction, and the camshaft bearings follow suit. The oil pump, vacuum pump, and water pump are computer controlled and can now be pulsed to save energy and reduce drag. It all adds up to a tiny engine that makes the most of its muscle and delivers gains in fuel economy and emissions. The best detail about the whole shooting match is the absence of a price increase.

As you can see from the photo above, there are some new paint colors available as well, including a series of "Rainbow" finishes that include Sunlight Metallic, Asteroid Metallic and Nightlife Metallic. Neat-o. The brand may be called Mini, but in typical German fashion, there's a massive press release posted after the jump with the full rundown of EU-market changes.


Gallery: 2010 Mini Cooper


[Source: Mini]

Continue reading Mini announces engine enhancements ahead of 2011 redesign

Mini announces engine enhancements ahead of 2011 redesign originally appeared on Autoblog on Fri, 15 Jan 2010 14:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2010 mini2010 Mini Cooper Cabrio2010 mini engine2010Mini2010MiniCooperCabrio2010MiniEnginebmw miniBmwMiniCooperCooper SCooperSminimini clubmanmini cooperMINI Cooper CabrioMini Cooper Clubmanmini cooper convertiblemini cooper smini cooper s jcwMINI Cooper S John Cooper Worksmini enginemini oneMiniClubmanMiniCooperMiniCooperCabrioMiniCooperClubmanMiniCooperConvertibleMiniCooperSMiniCooperSJcwMiniCooperSJohnCooperWorksMiniEngineMiniOneFri, 15 Jan 2010 14:29:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19317743/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2010/01/15/mini-announces-engine-enhancements-ahead-of-2011-redesign/19317743/article-detail.xml 19317743 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/minicoopers630_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2010/01/minicoopers630.jpg <![CDATA[Rumored Mini coupe to be dubbed Broadspeed?]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/rumored-mini-coupe-to-be-dubbed-broadspeed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/rumored-mini-coupe-to-be-dubbed-broadspeed/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/07/20/rumored-mini-coupe-to-be-dubbed-broadspeed/#commentsFiled under: , , , ,



Those folks concerned with All Things Mini over at Motoringfile have some more salacious gossip regarding the rumored coupe and speedster variants. A conceptual version of the fixed-head sportster is expected at the Frankfurt Motor Show this autumn, and according to the website, the model will carry the moniker 'Broadspeed Coupe.' (Quick history lesson: A team by the name of Broadspeed raced Mini Coopers back in the 1960's, and they even went so far as to produce a racier coupe version of the of the Mark 1 1275 S (shown above).

Regardless of what they end up being called, the Mini coupe and speedster are expected to be based on the current model - reportedly making them the last such iterations to be based on the R57 platform. An earlier report pegged the coupe model as being available exclusively in hardcore John Cooper Works spec, but now Motoringfile suggests that due to economic and regulatory pressures, both cars will likely be offered as complete families, with standard Cooper, Cooper S, and JCW flavors.

[Source: Motoringfile | Image: Racemini.nl]

Rumored Mini coupe to be dubbed Broadspeed? originally appeared on Autoblog on Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:01:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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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 cooperMini Cooper S ConvertibleMiniCooperMiniCooperSConvertibleReviewreviewsMon, 08 Jun 2009 11:57:00 EST http://www.autoblog.com/feed/19060134/article-comments.xml http://www.autoblog.com/feed/2009/06/08/review-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/19060134/article-detail.xml 19060134 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/minisvert_review006_opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2009/06/minisvert_review006_opt.jpg <![CDATA[First Drive: 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible]]>http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/first-drive-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/first-drive-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/http://www.autoblog.com/2009/02/24/first-drive-2009-mini-cooper-s-convertible/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible

As far as we can tell, the 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible draws cold air wherever it goes. First came the drop-top's ironic unveiling in Detroit, where we had the misfortune of experiencing one of the coldest, snowiest shows in recent memory. Just over a month later, we found ourselves in the cabrio-friendly climes of Southern California, where temperatures in the mid-50s did their best to spoil our open-air fun. But in spite of the chilly atmosphere, we bit the bullet, dropped the top and put the new MINI 'vert to the test to see if the lil' British runabout lives up to its "Always Open" tagline. Make the jump to find out what drop-top Motoring is all about.

Gallery: First Drive: 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible


Photos Copyright (C)2009 Sam Abuelsamid / Weblogs, Inc.

Continue reading First Drive: 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible

First Drive: 2009 MINI Cooper S Convertible originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 24 Feb 2009 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res image gallery of the new MINI Cooper Convertible

We'll be straight with you. We missed the MINI press conference. We know, we know... the horror. Anyway, you didn't exactly need to be Kojak to figure out what happened. The 2009 MINI Convertible drove out of a simulated ice block with a couple made up all frozen-like in the front seats. As for the car, well, it's pretty self explanatory. Available in March, it finally ditches the last-gen engines for the NA and turbocharged 1.6L fours available in the hardtop Cooper and Cooper S. Other changes? The trunk's roomier, the interior gets brought up-to-date, and the rollbar becomes a pop-up unit, significantly improving rearward visibility and giving the Cooper a much cleaner top-down profile. Finally, cute-gimmickry overload is fully achieved with the addition of the "Openometer," an add-on gauge that tracks the amount of time spent motoring with the top down. Adorable, right? Chicks are gonna dig it.

Gallery: Detroit 2009: MINI Cooper Convertible Live


Gallery: 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible


Live photos copyright (C)2009 Alex Núñez / Weblogs, Inc.

Detroit 2009: MINI Cooper Convertible chills out originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 11 Jan 2009 17:34:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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Click above for a high-res gallery of the 2008 MINI Cooper S

Let's set the scene: You've just returned from a jaunt to pick up Grandma and parked your 2007-2008 MINI Cooper S in the driveway. After leading the sweet lady up your steps and into the house, you return to the car to unload the assorted goodies and gifts that she's brought for you and the fam. You pop open the hatch, reach over to grab a foil-wrapped plate of her legendary baklava and start to feel a burning sensation on your shin. It's official. You've been indoctrinated into the Club of Cooper S owners who now sport a circular prison tat on their legs.

According to the NHTSA, the problem affects some 28,450 2007-08 MINI Cooper S models due to the dual tailpipes that protrude too far from the center of the Cooper's rear bumper. The problem has been documented on several MINI-specific forums, and BMW is stepping up to address the issue and offering Cooper customers a new, shorter exhaust, free of charge. The recall begins in January and owners can contact BMW at 800.831.1117 to schedule a replacement of the offending exhaust.

Gallery: In the Autoblog Garage: 2007 MINI Cooper S


[Source: InsideLine | Image: Findude]

MINI Cooper S recalled for protruding tailpipes, inadvertent tattoos originally appeared on Autoblog on Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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2009 MINI Cooper Convertible
Click above for a gallery of the 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible

MotoringFile, ground zero on the web for all things MINI, has the scoop on the long-awaited 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible. Someone slipped MF seven official shots of the Detroit-bound R57 Cooper ragtop along with some additional inside information. Obviously, it's based on the current chassis and powertrains, so you know what you're going to get there. Additionally, the JCW package is supposedly going to be available at launch as well.

One of the most obvious visual changes in the new convertible is the use of pop-up roll hoops instead of the fixed units featured on the old car. This, in addition to looking cleaner, should improve rearward visibility with the top down. Speaking of the top being down, the new car includes a cutesy little gimmick called the 'Always Open" gauge. Located next to the tach housing, it tells the driver the percentage of miles driven with the top open. Look also for new paint and top colors outside, plus a new black chrome interior trim package inside. MotoringFile says we'll see the car in showrooms come Spring 2009. Look for more info on the new MINI convertible as we get closer to the Detroit Auto Show. In the meantime, hit up MotoringFile for their full preview report. Thanks to Gabriel for the heads-up.

Gallery: 2009 MINI Cooper Convertible


[Source: MotoringFile]

2009 MINI Cooper Convertible photos hit the web originally appeared on Autoblog on Sun, 28 Sep 2008 00:25:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

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