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MINI has just unveiled the new 2015 MINI Cooper and Cooper S models. Although the models are instantly recognizable, they are also built absolutely anew from the ground up. Every component has been modified in order to optimize the function, performance and style of the car.

The result is that the 2015 MINIs now have significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and personalization in terms of exterior and interior.

Speaking about the cabin, the new model is more spacious than before, safer and secures more dynamic and performance-oriented experience behind the wheel. One of the main highlights inside the car is the new LED display concept that provides the driver with visual feedback.

The exterior of the vehicle is undoubtedly unmistakable; however it also has a contemporary style. The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long and of the MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm, they are 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. These numbers show that the models are 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than the preceding ones. The wheelbase has been also extended by 28mm.

A subtle reinterpretation can be seen on the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging.

Another exclusive element of the 2015 Cooper and Cooper S are the available LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring. At the rear are also used LED-powered lights. The brand now also offers five new exterior colours which complement the already existing range of MINI’s palette.

Going inside the car, one finds more spaciousness due to the extended exterior dimensions. The interior is adorned by a choice of fabric or leather finishes, or a combination of both. The dashboard of the new MINI Hatch includes a horizontal structure of the cockpit, linked to circular and elliptical details.

A new display and operating concept can be seen on the instrument cluster on the steering column. On vertically arranged circular dials are displayed the speed, revs and fuel level. In addition, inside is also featured a groundbreaking LED lighting around the central instrument.

Keyless-go is now standard across the MINI Hatch range. More importantly, MINI is now offering for the 2015 Hatch three brand new engines and new gearboxes. Each unit includes MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology. The trio all also offer enhanced performance figures.

2015 MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 134 hp (99 kW), while the 2015 Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which produces 189 hp (139 kW). 2015 MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114 hp (84 kW).

A six-speed manual transmission comes as a standard here, while the six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option. Both make a contribution towards reducing CO2 levels. In addition, the suspension of the MINI has been optimized due to the less weight and it now delivers more fun of driving.

Also new to the car is the Variable Damper Control, which presents drivers with the choice of a more comfort-oriented response or a sportier and firm one. MINI Cooper Hatch and MINI Cooper D Hatch run on 15-inch forged light alloy wheels, while the Cooper S Hatch is fitted with 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard.

In terms of safety and security MINI offers front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, automatic passenger airbag deactivation and front and rear ISOFIX. Furthermore, a lot of standard features have been included for the MY2015. For instance there are electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, door sill cover strips with a model-specific inscription, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth.

They can be complemented by the available features such as two-zone automatic air-conditioning, heated front seats, panoramic glass roof, visibility package including windscreen heating, rain sensor and automatic light control, a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system, sports leather steering wheel, Park Distance Control, electrically heated and folding exterior mirrors, and both interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function.

The technologies included in terms of connectivity are MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL, MINI Visual Boost Radio and MINI Navigation System. On the other hand, the driver assistance systems include MINI Head-Up-Display, a camera-based cruise control and distance control function, a collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function, road sign detection and high-beam assistant. As an option, there are also available rear view camera and parking assistant system.

Next to the ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, the driving stability control system (DSC), 2015 MINI includes a drive-off assistant, brake dry function, fading brake support and dynamic traction control (DTC).

The brand also offers a lot of personalization features which add to car’s individuality and exclusivity. The list of interior and exterior customizable features the following: John Cooper Works rear spoiler, various decorative trims for roof, exterior mirrors, bonnet, seat upholstery, interior surfaces and Colour Lines.

2015 MINI Cooper Hatch is priced at $24,660 USD (£15,300). It will be built in Britain at Plant Oxford and launched in the spring of 2014.

Source: MINI