MINI UK has achieved a record sales month; the highest since MINI went on sale in July 2001. 150 UK dealers sold 8,764 models in September 2007*. Year-to-date figures are running higher than the previous record year of 2005, at 36,969 models, making the outlook for a new record sales year certainly look more likely than snow on Christmas day. As announced at Frankfurt motorshow last month, global sales figures are heading for the 220,000 mark in 2007. The record sales show the continuing success of the MINI brand and the public appreciation of the second-generation MINI hatch and MINI Convertible models. Soon to join the line-up is the new MINI Clubman: on sale from 10 November.
One of the strengths of the MINI hatch (and Clubman) models is the brand new engines which are even more fuel efficient and boast lower C02 emissions. From August of this year, those figures became even more impressive with the addition of a number of engine revisions including Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop Function and Switch Point Display.
This technology has contributed to MINI being the ‘Most Improved Manufacturer’ in the table comparing sales and C02 performance, according to data from cleangreencars.co.uk. Since 2006, MINI has reduced C02 output per car by approximately 14 per cent. The next nearest manufacturer has improved by 8.9 per cent.
MINI’s leading emission and fuel consumption improvements are featured in the forthcoming SMMT report ‘The Evolution of the Car’, due to be published next week on 9 October. For example, from the first generation MINI Cooper in 2001 to the current model today, MINI has cut C02 emissions by over a fifth.
A MINI Cooper Convertible will kick-off the Fall movie season as the featured automobile in one of this season's most anticipated comedies, "The Heartbreak Kid." The new DreamWorks Pictures film from Bobby and Peter Farrelly opens nationwide October 5th with an all star cast that includes: Ben Stiller, Michelle Monaghan, Jerry Stiller, and Malin Akerman. A comedy about finding the right girl
Ben Stiller is the Heartbreak Kid and is looking for the right girl to marry. Falls in love and marries at top speed. The newly weds head down to Mexico in there Hyper Blue MINI Cooper Convertible. Even on the honeymoon the marriage turns from a dream to nightmare. See more at www.heatbreakkidmovie.com
According to Auto Express the guys at MINI are working on a SUV to enhance the MINI range. This is part of many new products to come for MINI range.
A MINI SUV would certainly open up new markets, but is it big enough to have an SUV feel? could be a problem with size but we are sure the MINI team will give a MINI SUV a superb image like they have with the MINI Clubman.
“Good Clean Fun” – MINI Cooper D wins Autocar magazine’s 2007 Green Grand Prix
MINI has taken a green P1 in the Autocar 2007 Green Grand Prix with its combination of great economy, low carbon dioxide emissions and renowned fun-factor.
“A highly entertaining econo-car,” and “…an enjoyable way to save.” Autocar concluded that owning a MINI Cooper D is the best way to “save and smile”.
Technologies introduced in August 2007 have now pitched the new MINI Cooper D, and all other MINI derivatives including the new MINI Clubman, firmly into hybrid car-levels of economy and emissions. Brake Energy Regeneration, an instantly responsive Stop-Start system, and an in-car gear shift indicator push the car towards a combined 72 miles per gallon target. Autocar achieved 59 mpg during its ‘real-world’ driving test in the Green Grand Prix and this winning result was “impressive (and) achieved with a car barely run-in.”
On a personal note I think this is fantastic news for the MINI and it should increase sales to a new high especially with the new Clubman out in November. Saving the planet and having fun to .. brilliant
Check out a quick video of the MINI Clubman and the MINI stand at the Frankfurt Motor Show 2007. MINI built a very disco like stand to attract attention and we are sure it worked well. It was good to see the MINI Clubman on it's first proper Motor Show outing along with other models of the 2007 MINI.
MINI performance is to be taken to new levels with the new MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE, a MINI Cooper S built specifically for track use and ready to race. Set for its first public appearance at the forthcoming IAA Motor Show in Frankfurt, deliveries of the new car will take place from spring 2008. Key characteristics of the new car include a higher top speed, increased torque, faster acceleration and optimised traction. Performance figures are detailed in the attached document.
Power enhancements are at the core of the striking CHALLENGE car’s modifications. As well as a re-developed twin-scroll turbocharger, the standard MINI Cooper S engine receives modified pistons, air filter, air intake passage, catalytic converter, exhaust components, electronic sensors and engine management system.
Numerous chassis and suspension tweaks add to what is a finely-tuned racing package. The new suspension system features adjustable damper units from KW Automotive, designed specifically for motorsport. A six-speed manual gearbox transmits power to 17” front wheels made by Borbet and shod with exclusive new racing tyres manufactured by Dunlop.
Body revisions based on the John Cooper Works Aerodynamic Kit, currently available from all MINI dealers, are key features of the CHALLENGE car’s set-up. To generate increased downforce at higher speeds, CHALLENGE car owners can expect a new adjustable rear spoiler, rear diffuser and performance front spoiler. The new braking system performs exceptionally. Large four-piston calipers mean the car can go from 62 – 0mph in just 3.1 seconds. A race-specific ABS configuration and an air-pressure elevating system complete the product modifications, which together equate to a vehicle 30kg lighter than the previous CHALLENGE car.
Safety measures perfect the array of MINI CHALLENGE car features. A roll cage welded firmly to the body of the car houses RECARO bucket seats combined with a six-point safety belt, along with the HANS (Head And Neck Support) system used in Formula 1 cars.
Although the car is designed for race participation, private owners may find owning a MINI CHALLENGE car a compelling prospect. However, the car will not be licensed for public roads and as such is expected to maintain its appeal among racing enthusiasts.
The MINI Challenge race series is fast gaining presence and popularity around the world. Since 2004, Challenge races have been staged in Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria and New Zealand. In 2008, MINI Australia will also hold a Challenge competition.
Race teams will receive the first MINI CHALLENGE cars from March 2008. Private customers not competing in the MINI Challenge series can expect deliveries of cars from June 2008. An order form for the car can be downloaded from 11 September 2007 at www.MINI.com/challenge-car and the expected price is €49,900 inc. VAT.
MINI Cooper S. Great driving. The end? Fans of the British-built sports hatch will be delighted to learn that the story continues with the launch of an all-new John Cooper Works tuning kit. MINI Cooper S owners will be able to add the aftermarket kit for just £1,095 inc. VAT, plus approximately four hours fitting.
The 1.6 litre twin-scroll turbo engine in the MINI Cooper S receives a power increase to 192 hp, from the standard unit’s 175 hp. Maximum torque is extended from 240 Nm to 250 Nm and is available between 1750 and 5000 rpm. As with the standard car, an Overboost facility is available for faster power deployment and the Works kit means drivers will feel the full force of 270 Nm through the MINI’s front wheels under hard acceleration. The increased power results in a 0-62 time of 6.8 seconds, and top speed of 144 mph.
External John Cooper Works branding on the front grille and tailgate indicate the tweaks carried out under the skin of tuned cars. Features of the kit include a sports exhaust system, a sports air filter and a revised engine management system: all designed to optimise power efficiency and make the engine more free-revving for rapid acceleration throughout the engine speed range.
Visual appeal of the Cooper S can be further boosted with features including an aerodynamic body kit, 18-inch light alloy wheels in various finishes and numerous carbon-fibre trim and panel units.
The tuning upgrade is available at MINI dealerships from September 2007 and will give hard core MINI fans an eagerly-anticipated performance hit. Appetites were whetted earlier this week with news that the MINI John Cooper Works CHALLENGE car will be unveiled at next month’s Frankfurt Motor Show. The race car developed only for track use is priced at €49,900.
Autoblog - Santa Monica,CA,USA MINI has teamed up with Japanese heritage sneaker brand Onitsuka Tiger (part of Asics) and will offer 3 pairs of trainers to coincide with the UK launch of the MINI Clubman.. Full article can be found here on www.autoblog.com .. and these shoes can be found at the MINI Shop at www.mini.com
The new MINI Clubman will go on sale in the UK on Saturday 10 November 2007. Based on a concept first shown at Frankfurt Motor Show in 2005, the new car is a modern interpretation of its famous Mini predecessors taking into account all the demands and technologies of the 21st century.
Available from launch in three engine variants: Cooper D, Cooper and Cooper S, the new model offers flexible use of space, easier access through innovative door concepts, more space for rear passengers and high levels of safety and customisation options, all without compromising the MINI’s revered driving dynamics.
The new car takes inspiration and styling cues from the Morris Mini Traveller, Austin Mini Countryman and the Mini Clubman Estate, which enjoyed widespread success in the 1960s. Combining enhanced functionality and versatility, the new MINI Clubman nevertheless stays true to the MINI design language with the retention of short body overhangs, wide track, a long wheelbase and the high shoulder line rising towards the rear.
The new MINI Clubman is 24cm longer than the Hatch, signifying 8cm more legroom for rear passengers and the opportunity for MINI to enter the market with five seats. Boot capacity has increased to 260 litres with the seats in place and up to 930 litres with the rear seats down. Access to this extra space has been made easier via the split rear doors and innovative Clubdoor on the right-hand side.
Modern high-performance engines, designed specifically for the 2nd generation MINI, feature new improvements to optimise fuel economy and emission management. Auto Start-Stop, Brake Energy Regeneration and a Gearshift Point Indicator are standard on all variants and helps the MINI Cooper D Clubman to achieve a low emissions figure of 109 g/km C02.
The Clubman is the next body style in the MINI range to join the successful Hatch and Convertible models, which have sold over one million models since 2001. All three derivatives will be built at Plant Oxford, where £100 million has been invested in the past two years to increase production up to 240,000 by 2008. This is more than double the planned production capacity prior to the first car coming off the line in spring 2001.
As with the Hatch models, the petrol engines will be assembled at Plant Hams Hall in the Midlands and the body panels and sub-assemblies are from Plant Swindon. This ‘MINI production triangle’ employs approximately 6,800 production associates in the UK.
On-the-road-prices: MINI Cooper £14,235 MINI Cooper D £15,400 MINI Cooper S £17,210
Exterior Many important details have made it into the production version of the ‘Shooting Brake’ concept first shown at Frankfurt almost two years ago. Historically, ‘Shooting Brake’ models are so-called due to a combination of premium two-door styling, with added interior flexibility for owners leading active lifestyles. The three versions of the MINI Clubman are identical to the MINI hatch design and body structure up to the B-pillar, retaining the familiar hexagonal radiator grille and large, round headlights.
Some of the design highlights… • The two piece split-door is a modern interpretation of an authentic detail found on the MINI’s classic forerunners. Hinging at the outside, the rear doors open up to the left and right offering convenient access to the rear. To ensure clear visibility at all times the two doors come with separate windscreen wipers.
• Access to the rear is facilitated by an additional door. The Clubdoor is hinged at the back on the right-hand side of the car and opens against the direction of travel. For safety reasons, this door can only be opened when the front door is open. The Clubdoor does not require an outside door handle and therefore blends smoothly into the body of the Clubman.
• The MINI Clubman is the same width as the Hatch model and approximately two centimetres higher.
• The rear light clusters on the MINI Clubman are a new design for this model. Sweeping slightly to the inside at the top, the design replicates the exterior lines of the car as seen from the rear.
• The MINI Clubman’s compact proportions and low-slung look creates the same dynamic impression as all other models in the MINI family.
• The individual model variants are designated at the rear by their names Cooper, Cooper D and Cooper S, while the name Clubman is highlighted on the right-hand door sill strip.
• There are 12 body colours to choose from, creating 36 combinations of exterior paintwork. Hot Chocolate is new and reserved exclusively for the MINI Clubman.
• The C-pillars and rear bumper of the MINI Clubman are painted either Silver or Black. The roof can be ordered in Silver, Black or Body Colour.
Interior The interior design of the new MINI Clubman replicates the design changes introduced on the 2nd generation MINI hatch model. Therefore, the opportunities to personalise it are just as varied as the Hatch with four interior colours and a wide range of trim options including Brushed Alloy and glistening Piano Black Paint.
The generous luggage compartment is 260 litres, 100 litres more than the Hatch, and offers easy loading options thanks to the split-rear doors. Folding down the rear seats provides 930 litres (250 litres extra compared to the Hatch), and a completely flat luggage compartment floor is available as an option. The benefits are greater practicality and flexibility for a larger variety of transport requirements.
The MINI Clubman is entering the market with five seats as standard. It is also possible to choose two seats at the rear as a no-cost option. The passengers in the rear enjoy 8cm more legroom than the MINI Hatch.
Engines The three modern, high-performance engines were developed specifically for the 2nd generation MINI and guarantee sporting driving pleasure combined with remarkable efficiency:
MINI Cooper S Clubman Powered by a 1.6 litre four-cylinder petrol engine with direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger complete with intercooler. Response time when accelerating is virtually instantaneous due to separating the channels of two cylinders each into exhaust manifold and turbocharger. This reduces the exhaust back pressure and plays a major role in ensuring that the charging effect of the turbocharger kicks in at just 1600rpm. Maximum output is 175hp at an engine speed of 5,500 rpm.
Maximum torque: 240Nm at 1600-5000 rpm (260Nm with Overboost) Top speed mph: 139 Acceleration 0-62mph: 7.6 seconds Fuel consumption combined mpg: 44.8 CO2 emissions EU g/km: 150
MINI Cooper Clubman The 1.6 litre four-cylinder, naturally-aspirated engine features fully variable valve management based on BMW Group’s VALVETRONIC technology. This improves the engine’s response and refinement, as well as the all-round efficiency of the power unit. Maximum output is 120hp at 6000 rpm.
Maximum torque: 160Nm at 4250 rpm Top speed mph: 125 Acceleration 0-62mph: 9.8 seconds Fuel consumption combined mpg: 51.4 CO2 emissions EU g/km: 132
MINI Cooper D Clubman Four-cylinder turbo diesel with common-rail fuel injection and variable turbine geometry ensures optimum smoothness, efficiency and response even at low speeds. A diesel particulate filter almost eliminates diesel exhaust emissions and helps to make the MINI diesel engine one of the most environmentally friendly cars available. It develops maximum output of 110hp at 4000 rpm.
Maximum torque: 240Nm at 1750-2000 rpm (260Nm with Overboost) Top speed mph: 120 Acceleration 0-62mph: 10.4 seconds Fuel consumption combined mpg: 68.9 CO2 emissions EU g/km: 109
As with all MINI Hatch models, the MINI Clubman range will benefit from the improvements introduced in production from August 2007 to bring further reductions in fuel consumption and emissions. Technologies include Brake Energy Regeneration, Auto Start-Stop function and a Gearshift Point Indicator.
Brake Energy Regeneration This technology ensures that the output from the engine is converted primarily into drive power, with electricity being generated for the on-board network only when the engine is on overrun or during application of the brakes. To achieve this effect, the alter¬nator is automatically disengaged from the engine while under power. Accordingly, the power the alternator would consume in the conventional mode now remains fully available for even faster and more dynamic acceleration.
An adequate supply of electrical energy to the on-board system is nevertheless ensured at all times, since the alternator is activated again as soon as the MINI returns to overrun or the driver applies the brakes.
Auto Start-Stop The new Auto Start-Stop function on all manual gearbox versions of the MINI Clubman serves to effectively reduce fuel consumption and emissions while the car is standing still. Whenever the car comes to a stop, Auto Start-Stop automatically switches off the engine as soon as the driver shifts to neutral and takes his foot off the clutch pedal. To re-start the engine, the driver presses down on the clutch pedal again, and the engine re-starts automatically and immediately.
Auto Start-Stop serves to optimise fuel efficiency in city traffic. The consumption of energy and the generation of exhaust emissions is reduced to zero in a very simple and straightforward process every time the car comes to a stop.
Gearshift Point Indicator The driver of a manual gearbox MINI Clubman is able to focus on the most efficient style of motoring because the ideal ‘economy’ gear is shown by a numeric symbol in the cockpit display beneath the rev counter. The electronic engine ‘brain’ analyses engine speed, driving conditions and the position of the accelerator pedal to calculate the most efficient style of motoring and suggests the respective gear to the driver.
Transmission The MINI Clubman comes as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox. As an option, six-speed automatic transmission is available for all three variants. A feature of the auto’ box enables the driver to select gears by means of paddles on the steering wheel.
Suspension Despite its longer wheelbase and the body overhang extended to the rear, the Clubman retains the “bulldog” stance so typical of the MINI. The car’s agile driving characteristics offer the legendary go-kart feeling inseparably associated with the MINI brand.
In a configuration tailored specifically for the MINI Clubman, the chassis and suspension guarantee superior handling, safety and sporting dynamics. The front axle is based on the MacPherson spring strut principle and features an anti-roll bar to reduce body sway to an absolute minimum. The central-arm rear axle is unique in this segment, sophisticated kinematics ensuring optimum wheel-to-road contact. Aluminium longitudinal arms help to reduce the car’s overall weight.
As with the Hatch, the suspension on the MINI Cooper S is set-up to be firmer and more dynamic than the other models. Although, an optional Sports Suspension set-up is available to the other models.
The MINI Cooper Clubman and the MINI Cooper D Clubman come as standard on 15-inch alloy rims, while the MINI Cooper S Clubman features 16-inch wheels with runflat tyres, allowing the driver to continue driving even after a complete loss of tyre pressure.
Steering Electric Power-Assisted Steering (EPAS) gives direct feedback to the driver and contributes to the pin-point accuracy of the MINI Clubman. Speed-related power assistance guarantees low steering forces when parking and precise responses at high speeds on the motorway. A further advantage of EPAS is that it weighs far less than a conventional steering system and is geared towards saving energy: the electric motor is only activated when power assistance is required by the driver.
Safety The MINI Clubman features a wide range of safety features. Six airbags are standard consisting of front, side and curtain head airbags for the driver and front passenger. The extra-large curtain airbags (integrated in the roof lining) offer optimum protection from head injuries for the rear passengers.
Active safety is ensured in critical situations by ABS anti-lock brakes, EBD Electronic Brake Force Distribution and CBC Cornering Brake Control as standard on all models. In addition, DSC Dynamic Stability Control is also standard (with on-off control by the driver) together with ASC+T Automatic Stability Control + Traction. Included within DSC is Hill Assist. This feature holds a manual MINI on the brake for a few seconds when setting off on a gradient to prevent it from rolling back.
The new generation of the MINI is the world’s only compact premium car to combine fascinating design with incomparably agile driving characteristics, quality and safety of the highest level, a wide range of customisation options, and truly outstanding efficiency. The new MINI Clubman offers further evidence of this leadership.
Andy Hearn, MINI UK General Manager, said: "MINI dealers are very excited and confident about the imminent arrival of the Clubman and the expansion of the MINI range. Dealers have invested close to £40 million in the last two years in expanding or moving premises, enabling them to present the huge choice of models, options and accessories to customers in the showroom. Demand continues to grow year by year with 2007 sales up nearly 14 per cent, including three record months from March. Residual values remain amongst the best in the industry and the arrival of Clubman will further add to MINI's growth over the coming years."
MINI UK has achieved a record sales month; the highest since MINI went on sale in July 2001. 150 UK dealers sold 8,764 models in September 2007*. Year-to-date figures are running higher than the previous record year of 2005, at 36,969 models, making the outlook for a new record sales year certainly look more likely than snow on Christmas day. As announced at Frankfurt motorshow last month, global sales figures are heading for the 220,000 mark in 2007. 
