MINI Paceman Concept debuted back in 2011 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. Yesterday, the Mini Paceman Prototype was unveiled on Mini’s Facebook page with four spy photographs, which you can view in the gallery below.
Although there was a slight attempt to hide partially the design of the new MINI model, as you can see not so much is left for the imagination. The car is a two-door powerhouse ready to roar onto streets very soon. It is promised to be powerful and agile, with a most exceptional take on Mini design.
The vehicle is practically a Countryman coupe. It has the same dimensions: length of 4 110 millimetres, width of 1 789 millimetres, and height of 1 541 millimetres. However, one of the most fascinating elements here are the 19″ alloys included. Paceman also boasts bold front fascia and a sloping roofline.
If no changes were made after Detroit, then the MINI Paceman is going to be powered by 1.6 liter four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with 211PS (155 kW) and 260Nm (192 lb-ft).
More information will be revealed around the time of official release at the 2012 Paris Auto Show.
It’s nice attend a cultural event every now and then… so we’ve been told. So here’s a performance we found particularly entertaining. It’s the London Philharmonic Orchestra‘s way to send a good luck card to Team GB for the London 2012 Games – the God Save the Queen anthem in car horns. MINI provided the instruments.
Nine musicians in total were involved in this sonorous piece which, when not performing behind the wheel, play wind and brass instruments including the clarinet, trumpet and trombone. Respectively, in the video we can see nine red, white and blue MINI London 2012 edition cars that vaguely represent the Union Jack.
The London Philharmonic Orchestra in MINIs
Jochen Goller, Director, MINI UK said, “MINI is best known for highly tuned, sweet sounding engines, so we are delighted to discover that a patriotic harmony can be created with the car’s horn. We hope that this rendition of God Save the Queen will help rally Team GB to victory.”
MINI is closely connected with Team GB and ParalympicsGB and over the last year and a half the company has organized inspirational events and fun activities with the aim of encouraging the nation to backup the home team’s athletes and to demonstrate support.
2013 MINI Clubvan has two seats, five doors and of course the unmistakable MINI style. This makes it the world’s first premium compact delivery van. The model is based on the MINI Clubman platform and is designed with the aim to get the attention of new urban users.
The MINI Clubvan will bring more style, quality and driving fun in the small car-based van segment. The increased functionality offered by the MINI Clubvan is based on a closed-off load area which extends from the rear doors right up to the driver’s and front passenger’s seats.
In addition, the cargo can be easily reached either through the wide-opening split rear door or via the right-side Clubdoor. In other words the vehicle is the perfect versatile choice for upmarket commercial applications and for non-mainstream leisure and lifestyle use.
2013 MINI Clubvan
It has a length of 3,961 mm, a width of 1683 mm, a height of 1,426 mm and a wheelbase of 2,547 mm, ant these in fact are the same as those of the MINI Clubman. However, it includes only two seats and has opaque rear side windows in body-colour. The maximum payload capacity of this MINI is 500 kilograms.
More importantly, the Clubvan will come in three model versions: the 72 kW/98 hp MINI One Clubvan, the 90 kW/122 MINI Cooper Clubvan and the 82 kW/112 hp MINI Cooper D Clubvan.
All engines are efficient four-cylinder ones. In addition the vehicle includes the familiar MINI front-wheel-drive set-up, Electric Power Steering, MacPherson strut front suspension, multi-link rear suspension and powerful brakes, Auto Start/Stop, Shift Point Display, Brake Energy Regeneration and on-demand operation of ancillary units.
Going further into details, the MINI One Clubvan is equipped 1.6-litre engine with fully variable valve timing and generates maximum power of 72 kW/98 hp and provides 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) acceleration in 11.1 seconds, with a top speed of 185 km/h (115 mph). Its avarage fuel consumption is 5.5 litres per 100 kilometres (51.4 mpg imp), with CO2 emissions of 129 grams per kilometre.
The MINI Cooper Clubvan develops maximum power of 90 kW/122 hp. This version has a 0 – 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint time of 9.8 seconds and a top speed of 201 km/h (125 mph). Here the average fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are 5.5 litres/100 km (51.4 mpg imp) and 129 g/km respectively.
The most fuel-efficient model in the line-up is the MINI Cooper D Clubvan. Its four-cylinder turbocharged diesel engine with common rail direct injection delivers 82 kW/112 hp and is able to accelerate from standstill to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 10.2 seconds, on the way to a top speed of 197 km/h (122.4 mph). The average fuel consumption is 3.9 litres/100 km (7.4 mpg imp), corresponding to CO2 emissions of 103 grams per kilometre.
2013 MINI Clubvan
All engines are mated to a six-speed manual transmission as a standard. Optionally, the vehicles can be equipped with a six-speed automatic transmission.
Speaking about the exterior looks of the van, it will be available with a choice of four exterior paintwork shades: Pepper White, Ice Blue, British Racing Green metallic and Midnight Black metallic. The roof, rear side window area, C-pillars and exterior mirror caps are body-coloured on all model versions.
The vehicle runs on 15-inch wheels, but as an option it can be equipped with the exclusive MINI Clubvan Delta Spoke styling with 15, 16 or 17-inch alloy wheels.
On the other hand, the interior includes black seats with Cosmos fabric upholstery, a black interior colour scheme and Fine White Silver trim strips. This is the standard on all models. Optionally, the interior design can be customised to any individual requirements.
MINI Clubvan has also an extensive range of optional extras: xenon headlights, black headlight shells, Adaptive Headlights, Automatic Climate Control, Park Distance Control, automatically dimming interior and exterior mirrors, a trailer hitch, the MINI Boost CD radio, MINI Visual Boost radio, MINI navigation system.
2013 MINI Clubvan will be at dealerships in autumn this year.
This MINI Countryman is an exceptional, extraordinary and one-of-a-kind design concept project created by the talented designers from Carlex Design.
Undoubtedly what has been presented with the pictures below, show that this project will include unique interior in bronze and copper, and will probably include some interesting and eye-catching technologies.
Carlex Design MINI Countryman in steampunk style
Furthermore, the same color scheme can be seen on the exterior of the Countryman. Its designers categorize it as a MINI in a steampunk style. In addition they aim to do something that has never been done before.
Most of parts for the tuning are ready and the project is in an ongoing work, where upholsters, and various craftsmen are working hard to complete perfectly even the smallest, minute details. We are excitingly looking forward to seeing this project eventually completed, aren’t we?
A John Cooper Works MINI Coupe is sufficiently fast enough, right? Of course it is – 211 hp, 280 Nm of peak torque and a 6.4 second run to the 60 mile an hour mark. But apparently, one such MINI recently did a lap on the Hockenheim Race Circuit with a time of 1:13.0 on slick tires. The event was a 2012 “Tuner Grand Prix” and was hosted by the “sport auto” magazine. That’s pretty impressive, but AC Schnitzer believe, the Coupe can do better than that (it is after all a “tuner” prix).
That is when they brought out their concept AC Schnitzer Raptor John Cooper Works MINI and did the same circuit in 1:10.87 on sports tires. Obviously, some extensive work was needed on top of the base. Two key concepts have been used into the making of the Raptor – power and lightness.
The engine management system has been remapped with an AC Schnitzer Motronic unit, a Schnitzer turbo and interccooler sysem has also been put to work. There’s a limited slip differential and a sports clutch which connects a special “Short Shift” racing transmission to the drive train. The final pinch of power is added thanks to the new stainless steel exhaust system that employs a racing catalyst. The end result is a 1 second drop on the 0 to 60 mph run (5.4). The power is now up to 300 hp which stampede over your head at 5000 rpm and the peak torque stands at 340 Nm.
A 100 kg diet has been imposed on the MINI – A carbon hood, doors and trunklid keep the weight down (so does the exclusive ion battery) while carbon sports wings and a carbon diffuser provide much downforce without an extra toll on the overall mass. A somewhat more stable body structure is achieved through additional antiroll bars and through a lower center of gravity thanks to the lowering suspension. On it’s axles, the Raptor MINI has the fairly wide AC Schnitzer 7.5J x 18” Mi2 BiColor wheels fitted with 225/35 ZR 18 tires.
AC Schnitzer John Cooper Works MINI Coupe Raptor
Inside, one would not find the exact definition of luxury but you do get a roll-cage and carbon fiber buckets seats – comfy. Also the foot rest and pedal are all aluminum.
And that pretty much sums up the AC Schnitzer John Cooper Works MINI Coupe Raptor concept which has the sole purpose to dominate the track… and your someone’s wallet – it’s estimated value is around 62,000 Euros.
2012 MINI Rocketman Concept is especially prepared by the British premium car brand MINI for the Olympics and Paralympics that will take place in few months in London. The new edition has already appeared as a concept and debuted at the International Geneva Motor Show last year.
The new design of the MINI Rocketman Concept is absolutely stunning! It combines fresh ideas for personal mobility in big cities while at the same time keeping the classical, unmistakably British design features.
And if you are going to visit London during the Olympics, this extraordinary vehicle will be on show in the BMW Pavilion located close to the Olympic and Paralympic Village.
The 3+1-seater has three doors and an exterior length of just over three meters. It has irresistible design, clever functionality, great agility and exceptional efficiency. The advanced technology included in the vehicle underpins a lifestyle-focused mobility solution. In other words the MINI is equipped for life in big cities.
Further detail is that MINI Rocketman Concept’s spaceframe is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic. This enables the lightweight construction of the car. If you go throughout the pictures of the car, you will see its innovative interior concept, which can accommodate three full-size seats.
2012 MINI Rocketman Concept
The exterior and interior color schemes of the Rocketman are influenced mainly by its British heritage. All that has been used in the creation are high-quality materials thanks to which the stylish details can be additionally emphasized. All in all, it embodies a typically British form of sporting elegance.
The MINI runs on 18-inch light-alloy wheels, which have white polished areas and a metallic red accent. Matt Porcelain White paintwork is also utilized for the mirror caps, boot opener and surrounds for the radiator grille and headlights.
The grille structure is made up entirely of MINI logos. It has a red metallic paint finish and contrasting white surround. A red strip emphasises the path of the hallmark MINI diagonal link between the wheel arch and door at the foot of the A-pillar.
Another unique and special feature is the distinctive lighting design for the roof, which is full-surface glass roof. It has illuminated braces which recreate the look of Britain’s Union Jack flag. Even when the roof is not illuminated, the braces keep on shining in bright Porcelain White. In darkness, the integrated optical fibres provide a pleasant indirect illumination of the interior and a compelling night design visible from the outside. The roof’s transparent surfaces are bordered by a metallic red painted strip.
The interior is influenced by the Union Jack-led colour concept as well. Sporting ambience and intricate details are the characteristics of the coupe of the car. The inner door panels and rear side sections are trimmed in dark blue nubuck leather, while the elliptical door rings are in white leather.
The most distinctive element of the dashboard is the cockpit surface. The latter is bordered by a red bar and has a striking 3D effect. Its relief structure shows the name of every Summer Olympic Games host city.
MINI Rocketman Concept catches the imagination thanks to its innovative technology and irresistible combination of driving fun and sustainability.
2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani is the special car, designed by Franca Sozzani (chief editor of Vogue). This exquisite MINI car was made to mark the 20th anniversary of the Life Ball charity event in Vienna.
MINI Roadster served as a base model for this inspiring floral design of the vehicle. In fact, the Roadster is the first open-top two-seater in the brand’s history. It comes with 184 horsepower (135 kW) and has a top speed of 227 km/h (141 mph).
2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani
Franca Sozzani decorated the roof of the Roadster in a stylishly intricate floral design. All those floral motives are harmoniously combined with the trendiest color of all the Deepest Purple. It was applied as a matt paintwork over the car, and in addition is complemented by gold hallmark MINI rally stripes.
As you can see the overall appearance of the vehicle is more than impressive. In my opinion it is even a work of art.
The interior of the car is as inspiring and exceptional as the exterior itself. For instance, for the instruments and brass-colored touches on the circular elements is used printed leather.
The designer Sozzani spoke about the inspiration behind this unique design, which will stay in the history of the MINI:
“The concept behind the MINI customisation is inspired by the beautiful and elegant women who in the past used to wear a scarf draped around their head when driving a convertible. Flowers are a symbol of joy and life. And the Life Ball is always fighting for life and joy.”
MINI John Cooper Works models will now be equipped with innovations that are designed to provide driving fun combined with fuel economy. The latter will be achieved thank to a new-generation engine and other far-reaching powertrain innovations.
In particular, although the twin-scroll turbo engine develops the same levels of output and torque as its predecessor, it will now deliver quicker responses and lower fuel consumption and emissions. This and other technologies will help to enhance the efficiency of the John Cooper Works models.
In addition to that all of the models can be optionally mated to a six-speed automatic gearbox. Furthermore, the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman will now be equipped with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.
John Cooper MINI-s all carry the inherent perfection and the refinement it name. They deliver sporty driving fun due to the powerful engine, advanced chassis technology, and bespoke exterior and interior design elements that they have.
Now, all John Cooper Works models are becoming even stronger than ever and with fresh power under the bonnet. Moreover, to John Cooper Works family will joined the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.
The latter is a five-door model which comes equipped with new-generation engine. Thank to it the MINI vehicle is able to produce 160 kW (218 hp), channeled through an all-wheel-drive system to deliver a new take on outstanding performance. The peak torque here is 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) and is available between 1,900 and 5,600 rpm.
MINI John Cooper Works Family
MINI John Cooper Works Countryman has the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in just 7.0 seconds. It comes as a standard with six-speed manual gearbox, but can be ordered as well with the optional six-speed automatic.
Top speed it can achieve is 225 km/h / 140 mph (automatic: 223 km/h / 139 mph). Speaking about the improved fuel economy, the Countryman has one of 7.4 litres per 100 kilometers / 38.2 mpg (automatic: 7.9 l/100 km / 35.8 mpg) and CO2emissions of 172 grams (184 g) per kilometer.
The aforementioned new-generation engine can also be seen in the MINI John Cooper Works, MINI John Cooper Works Clubman, MINI John Cooper Works Convertible, MINI John Cooper Works Coupe and MINI John Cooper Works Roadster.
In details, this new-generation engine is based on the one of the MINI Cooper S. As the latter it also utilizes a twin-scroll turbocharger, petrol direct injection and variable valve control based on the BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC system. What this throttle-free load control technology does is simply to optimize the responsiveness of the engine and its efficiency.
Furthermore, this unit is a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine, which has cylinder block and bearing mounts made from aluminium joined with reinforced pistons, a particularly high-strength cylinder head and low-weight crankshafts. The exhaust valves are sodium-filled. This will help to extra cool the turbocharged engine
This unique engine delivers a maximum output of 155 kW/211 hp at 6,000 rpm, while peak torque of 260 Newton metres (192 lb-ft) is on tap between 1,850 and 5,600 rpm. There is an overboost function, which allows these numbers to be raised to 280 Newton metres (207 lb-ft) for a short time between 2,000 and 5,200 rpm.
The new engine comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. However, it can be ordered with the optional six-speed automatic gearbox with Steptronic function.
Other important highlights next to the improved engine are the enhancements made to the engine’s efficiency, the more extensive use of fuel consumption and emissions-reducing technology.
For instance, technologies such as Brake Energy Regeneration, which concentrates power generation for the in-vehicle network during periods under braking and on the overrun, the fuel efficiency is significantly improved.
Next, there is also included the Auto Start/Stop function, which switches the engine off automatically when the car stops at junctions and in traffic tailbacks. On the other hand the Shift Point Display advises the driver of the most efficiency-enhancing moment to change gear.
Believe it or not, the electric power steering also contributes for the improved fuel efficiency. This is due to its electric motor which utilizes energy when power assistance is actually needed.
MINI John Cooper Works Family
MINI John Cooper Works accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) on the way to a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions are circa 153 grams (165 g) per kilometer.
MINI John Cooper Works Clubman accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.8 seconds (automatic: 7.0 sec); has a top speed of 238 km/h / 148 mph (236 km/h / 147 mph) with fuel economy of 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.2 mpg (automatic: 7.2 l/100 km / 39.2 mpg) and CO2 emissions of 155 grams (167 g) per kilometer.
MINI John Cooper Works Convertible accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.9 seconds (automatic: 7.1 sec) and reaches a top speed of 235 km/h / 146 mph (233 km/h / 145 mph). Its fuel consumption is just 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg) and CO2 emissions are limited to 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.
MINI John Cooper Works Coupe accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.4 seconds (automatic: 6.6 sec) and has a top speed of 240 km/h / 149 mph (238 km/h / 148 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.6 liters per 100 kilometers / 42.8 mpg (automatic: 7.1 l/100 km / 39.8 mpg) and CO2 emissions are 153 grams (165 g) per kilometer.
MINI John Cooper Works Roadster accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 6.5 seconds (automatic: 6.7 sec) and continues on to a top speed of 237 km/h / 147 mph (235 km/h / 146 mph). Its average fuel consumption is 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers / 41.5 mpg (automatic: 7.3 l/100 km / 38.7 mpg), with CO2 emissions recorded as 157 grams (169 g) per kilometer.
All John Cooper Works models will come equipped with a wide array of special equipment. Standard specification feature the Sport Button, powerful brakes, DSC (Dynamic Stability Control) system including DTC (Dynamic Traction Control) and EDLC (Electronic Differential Lock Control) for the driven axle, plus bespoke 17-inch light-alloy wheels (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: 18-inch) and runflat tyres.
John Cooper Works aerodynamic kit is also featured as a standard. What it does is to optimize both the airflow over and around the cars, and their visual impact.
Emblematic of course for all of the models are their paint finishes and roof colours. What is even more here is that all of the MINI-s will come with an ultra-sporty interior with special seat upholstery variants and interior trim elements.
A GP designation on a MINI means that it has spawned from the depths of hell. Well, not really. It’s more like a job from John Cooper Works. The last time we saw a similar speed demon was in 2006 when a MINI Cooper S with a GP Kit by John Cooper Works (the performance subsidiary of MINI’s) with 136 hp-per-liter power ratio, lapped the Nurburgring in less than 8 min. 44 seconds. Today, we have a new one and the word is that it’s the fastest MINI ever built.
Because it still is in its trial period, things are quite hush-hush about it. All we know is that it has already went round the Nurburgring setting a time of 8min. 23 seconds. In other words – an almost 19 second improvement over the old one. The main suspects for that blisteringly quick lap are the aerodynamics, the chassis and the powertrain. Without a doubt, more air has been squeezed from the MINI’s twin-scroll turbo charger. Indeed, the character of the latest GP is quite revealing – literally. Look at that roof spoiler and that unapologetic diffuser. How about the front apron with the red air intakes which look like blood quenched fangs? Mean and functional.
We can only guess the size of the disc brakes and how many roll bars have been added, but at MINI, they assure us – the handling has been perfected to the tiniest detail. The tires have been made to outgrip even the harshest lateral forces and most probably the suspension is stiff as hell. (still a road legal car though).
Sales will commence later this year with a limited run of only 2,000 units. Our guess is, they will sell quickly. A MINI Cooper GP by John Cooper Works is the definition of small-car, hardcore fun.
2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani is the lasted design concept which however has some unique qualities and is made with an aim of a special contribution.
For eleven years already, MINI brand has been a partner of the Life Ball, which annually takes place in Vienna. What is very specific about this event is that every year one special design comes under the imagination of a renowned designer to support the event.
For the 20th anniversary of the Life Ball the tradition is continued, with the donation of a vehicle which has been creatively transformed by an international celebrity. All the proceeds of this car will go to projects fighting HIV and AIDS.
In details, all in all the auctioning of these one-of-a-kind MINI models has accumulated inclome of more than 500,000 euros for this charitable purpose.
It is important to mention as well that these models have been designed in previous years by international fashion designers like: Joseph Corré for Agent Provocateur, Donatella Versace, Renzo Rosso for Diesel and Missoni, Mario Testino and The Blonds for Katy Perry.
2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani
The latest Life Ball MINI is created by the gifted Franca Sozzani, who is the chief editor of Italian VOGUE and UN Goodwill Ambassador for Fashion 4 Development.
He describes the creative process and speaks about the inspiration which has provoked this unique design the following: “I thought at MINI as a beautiful woman who put a scarf on her head when she drives a Roadster.”
The Deepest Purple matt paintwork gives the MINI Roadster a thoroughly unmistakable look as are doing floral motifs and mannequins. Nevertheless the highlight of this year’s Life Ball MINI is the floral design on the roof of the MINI Roadster.
As you can see there are also added some steel-coloured accents on the exterior mirrors and alloy wheels. The typical MINI rally stripes are also in the same colour and they elegantly round off this unusual colour concept.
On the other hand the interior of the car is said to include the highest-quality of materials and a sophisticated seat design.
2012 MINI Roadster by Franca Sozzani will be auctioned in the Hall of Ceremonies at Vienna’s Hofburg palace as part of the AIDS Solidarity Gala.
The new design models 2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park and MINI Green Park are going to deliver even more style and excitement in the MINI fleet. They come with exclusive colour combinations and trim levels, which give them classic and sporty stance.
What is more, these two MINI models are going to offer their customers harmoniously combined design and trim features for the exterior and interior.
Both design models are available all around the world in MINI and MINI Clubman body styles.
More importantly, the customers can choose up to four engine variants:
MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper Clubman with 90 kW/122 hp
MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper D Clubman with 82 kW/112 hp
MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper S Clubman with 135 kW/184 hp
MINI Cooper SD and MINI Cooper SD Clubman with 105 kW/143 hp
All of the above mentioned engines come as standard with a six-speed manual transmission, while a six-speed automatic is optional.
MINI Hyde Park and MINI Green Park
2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park embodies the classic British lifestyle. It has a discreet Pepper White body color which is combined with Hot Chocolate contrasting paintwork on the roof and exterior mirror caps.
In addition, regarding the MINI Clubman color scheme there are included the lower sections of the C-pillar in body color. And in order to match the contrasting paintwork, the MINI Hyde Park also sports bonnet and side stripes in Hot Chocolate. Another highlight is the indicator lenses in transparent white.
The interior of the MINI Hyde Park is as special as the interior. The surfaces are in Pepper White, and the seat upholstery and optional Color Line draw on the entire range available to the MINI and MINI Clubman. Furthermore, to make the interior even more stylish, the seats are in cloth/leather or Leather Gravity with the Carbon Black or Polar Beige Color Line. The MINI Yours dashboard lined comes in leather in a Black/Polar Beige combination.
2012 MINI Clubman Hyde Park
On the other hand 2012 MINI Green Park comes offering sporting heritage. Its design embodies the traditional British passion for sporting competition.
British Racing Green paintwork is featured in the roof and exterior mirror caps display. The bonnet stripes are in British Racing Green as well. Additionally, the transparent white lenses for the direction indicators heighten the distinctly classic-sporty look. The lower C-pillars of the MINI Clubman are in body color.
Here too, the interior surfaces are in Pepper White, reflecting a cabin design that takes its cue from the exterior. Aging, the seats in Black or Polar Beige and the MINI Yours leather-lined dashboard in a combination of Black/Polar Beige.
A tribute MINI Cooper to the Rolls Royce brand, the Goodwood one, is currently being on a display at Bumpton Road’s iconic Harrods store. It’s been out there since the 8th of April. Showcased behind the shop window, with a picturesque British scene as a background, this Diamond Black MINI might just turn out to be a profitable ad campaign. Display screens offer information, representatives will further guide you trough it upon request and a projector casts on the pavement the MINI logo and the reading “1 out of 1000”.
First revealed at last April’s Shanghai Motor Show, this MINI takes a Cooper S hatch and mashes it with a dollop of Rolls Royce-like indulgences. That means 184 hp of power from the 1.6-litre four-cylinder, Twin Scrolled petrol unit. Add direct petrol injection and variable valve control and things get very 21st Century.
What does bring you back to the 19th Century however, is the cosmetic appeal inside – the dashboard, center console, air vents, carpets, heated leather seats, roof lining, doors and interior cladding are all finished in the exclusive Rolls-Royce Cornsilk color. The dashboard and door handle surfaces are of Walnut Burr. The roof linings, sun visors and rear storage tray are all made of luxurious cashmere, with deep-pile lambs wool used to make the floor mats.
But then again, the standard equipment balances things out with the Bi-Xenon Adaptive Headlights and Park Distance Control, and climate control, the an onboard computer and navigation. There’s also a Radio Visual Boost audio system that comes with a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker setup. To top it all off we have 17-inch light alloy multispoke wheels.
For all of that, one does need to pay a hefty price tag – £41,005 ($65,341). Mind you, that does include a comprehensive five-year servicing package.