Currently reading: Mini overhauls its range
Engine range is overhauled; One Convertible now offered; facelift due in August

Mini has reworked its range to boost engine power and efficiency, while a One Convertible is also being offered for the first time.

Other additions to the range include a new Minimalism trim level, which aims to offer fuel economy and low CO2 emissions without denting on driver involvement.

The biggest engine changes can be found in the Mini Cooper S model. Power in the turbocharged 1.6-litre unit has been increased by 9bhp to 181bhp, with peak torque of 177lb ft arriving at just 1600rpm. CO2 emissions have been cut by 13g/km to 136g/km and fuel economy is up to 40.6mpg. The Cooper S can get from 0-62mph in 7.0secs and reach a top speed of 141mph.

These power and efficiency improvements have mainly been achieved by the addition of BMW’s Valvetronic system, which optimises the engine’s response within fractions of a second.

Efficiency and performance has also been improved in the Cooper model, while the Mini One’s displacement has been increased from 1.4-litres to 1.6. This results in power being increased to 97bhp, a 3bhp rise, with emissions cut to 127g/km and fuel economy improving to 43.6mpg.

An entry-level Mini One Convertible is joining the range for the first time, which is powered by the same 97bhp 1.6 as its hatchback sibling. In Convertible guise, the One can get from 0-62mph in 11.3secs and reach a top speed of 114mph.

The final addition to the Mini range is the Minimalism trim level. This is only available on One models and is available with the 1.6-litre engine mated to a six-speed manual with either 75bhp or 98bhp. In either guise, the Minimalism has emissions of 119g/km and fuel consumption of 46mpg.

Eco features in this model include stop-start and a gearshift indicator. Distinguishable exterior features include new more aerodynamic wheels and Pepper White design touches on the front grille and wing mirrors.

Mini will also be facelifting its entire range in August, while in the same month, the PSA sourced-1.6-litre diesel engine is being dropped in favour of a BMW’s own 1.6-litre unit.

 

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Jim Holder 14 January 2010

Re: Mini overhauls its range

Right,

Before this gets out of hand, let's stop this snowballing into a debate about whether the car you drive or language you use reflects your sexuality.

I've no problem with someone saying an aspect of a car makes it a 'girl's car' - after all, car companies openly chase male/female buyers with their styling etc -Mini included.

But I don't want people's sexuality (or anything else) called into question just because they say they like a car, or they drive a certain type of car.

In other words, stop having a go at each other, and get back to the changes to the Mini range...

go_coop 14 January 2010

Re: Mini overhauls its range

zoomzoom wrote:
 I've obviously touched a nerve go-coop. You drive a Vauxhall Tigra - I just know it...
Of course you have - I always find it interesting when people question other people's sexuality based on what they drive. And it's a BMW 3 Series. You still haven't answered me what do you drive?

catnip 14 January 2010

Re: Mini overhauls its range

If they're keeping the First with a 1.4 engine, then I think its ok for the One to have a lower powered version of the 1.6 Cooper engine, just like the first generation did. Hopefully it might be a bit more torquey than the current One 1.4.

If this article is accurate, though, there doesnt seem to be much point in getting a MINI before the August facelift.