A new MINI is rolling out in the U.K., and it is designed to be the brand's most affordable model. It's called the "MINI First," and the two-door is only available in hatchback form. The standard powerplant is a 1.4-liter, 75 horsepower four-cylinder gasoline engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox. Its claimed 0-62 mph time of 13.2 seconds won't make it first away from the light, but it will be passing quite a few petrol stations with a combined fuel consumption of 53.3 miles-per-gallon.
Starting at £10,950 (or about $17,950 USD unadjusted for Britain's costlier car market), the First is hardly entry-level when it comes to technology. Standard features – with fuel efficiency in mind – include auto start-stop, regenerative braking, variable valve timing, and a shift point indicator. There is no word on any plans to bring this model Stateside, but if you are interested, you can check out the car in the gallery below and read more in the full press release after the break.
[Source: MINI]
PRESS RELEASE:
17 July 2009
MINI First is first choice for value
The new MINI First will be MINI's most attractively-priced model on sale in the UK. Starting at just £10,950 OTR, the MINI First offers customers the opportunity to get behind the wheel of a unique small premium car at an unbeatable price.
Available only in Hatch form, the MINI First features the 1.4-litre petrol engine currently found in the MINI One, but with a power output of 75 hp. The frugal engine is mated to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard and great go-kart handling is ensured by the trademark sophisticated chassis of all MINIs. A multi-link rear axle and independent front and rear suspension systems combine with Dynamic Stability Control to put a smile on the driver's face every time they get behind the wheel.
MINIMALISM technologies including Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration, Variable Valve Technology and Shift Point Display are all included in the standard package, meaning owners will be able to take full advantage of the MINI First's low running costs.
MINI First Performance data
| Power (HP) | Torque (Nm) |
Combined fuel cons. (MPG) |
CO2 (g/km) |
0-62 mph |
Top speed |
| 75 |
120 |
53.3 |
128 |
13.2 |
109 |
The new MINI First is not just a strong performer because of its class-leading chassis and drivetrain. The most affordable new MINI ever appeals to the head as well as the heart. According to independent experts the MINI First is expected to retain 50 per cent of its value after three years or 30,000 miles, representing the best residual value figures compared to any of its competitors. New owners will also be able to drive a MINI First away for a monthly fee from as low as £99 a month.*
Aligned with MINIs ground-breaking TLC package that covers service and maintenance needs for five years for just £185, premium compact motoring has never been so attainable.
As for all MINIs, customers will be able to personalise their model with a choice of option packages:
Design Package
£525.00
- 3-Spoke Sport Leather Steering Wheel
- Heated Mirrors and Windscreen Washer Jets
- Mirror Caps in Body Colour
- Chrome Line Interior
- Chrome Line Exterior
Tech Package
£855.00
- Multi-function for steering wheel
- 3-Spoke Sport Leather Steering Wheel
- Passenger Airbag Deactivation Switch
- Radio BOOST CD
- CD Preparation
- Basic Bluetooth with USB Audio
Salt Package
£390.00
- Floor Mats in velour
- Passenger Seat Height Adjustment
- Storage Compartment Pack
- Front Fog Lights
- On Board Computer
- Interior Lights Pack
The MINI First is available to order now from all MINI UK dealers.
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