It’s time for a MINI facelift. To keep its premium small car range on terms with the new Audi A1 and the Fiat 500, the MINI Clubman, Convertible and hatch have all been given a mild refresh.
Headline news is the addition of a new 1.6-litre diesel engine, which replaces the old PSA-sourced unit. The engine is effectively the same as that used in the 116d, and features BMW’s latest common rail injection and variable vane turbo.
There are two version of the same unit: In the Cooper D hatch, it produces 110bhp and 270Nm, and in the One D hatch, 89bhp and 215Nm. Both engines emit 74.3mpg and 99g/km of carbon dioxide, thanks to stop start, on-demand use of the alternator and regenerative brakes.
The engines will be fitted in the Clubman and, for the first time, the Convertible. BMW claims that the latter’s 70mpg and 105g/km make it the most efficient full convertible in the
Despite the efficiency gains, performance remains impressive – the Cooper D accelerates from 0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds and goes on to a top speed of 123mph, while the One D sprints from 0-62mph in 11.4 seconds and hits 115 mph flat out.
To compliment the technical changes, there are new bumpers, lights and wheels on the outside, and revisions to the centre console on the inside to make it easier to use.
All cars except the MINI First get DAB digital radios as standard, and buyers can now opt for MINI’s improved Connected system. It lets iPhone owners stream web radio, which allows you to listen to any radio station that has a web address. The system can also receive RSS news feeds and use the on-dash screen to display their latest messages on Facebook and Twitter.
The revised MINI range goes on sale on 18th September with prices expected to be close to the current model, to take the fight to the Audi A1which arrives in the
Thanks to: Auto Express
