Don't pay twice for Servicing

MINI OWNERS! DON’T PAY TWICE FOR SERVICING

• Quarter of owners failing to use already-paid-for TLC servicing packs, opting instead to pay again at an independent garage
• MINI launches new website that lets customers check TLC pack status
• Visit www.mini.co.uk/owners/maintenance/mini-servicing/ for full TLC information, 24/7 access to servicing quotes, online service booking & dealer locator

It’s well documented that MINI owners have great taste, but new findings suggest that they must also have huge wallets! Despite the New MINI Hatch starting at just £13,750, drivers of the British brand still seem hell-bent on wasting their cash by not using the full value of the TLC servicing packs attached to their cars.

MINI TLC, which costs from £275 and covers all servicing costs for five years or 50,000 miles, is designed to offer buyers complete peace of mind. It’s a hugely popular proposition, with over 97% of buyers selecting the pack when purchasing their new car.

However, MINI has discovered that one in four owners who have value left on their packs are choosing to service their vehicles outside of the MINI dealer network, effectively paying twice to keep their pride and joy in tip-top shape.

In order to address the situation, MINI has launched a new servicing site that enables customers to check if they have any servicing value left on their TLC pack and, if not, to get a fixed-price quote on their next service at a MINI dealer. By clicking onto www.mini.co.uk/owners/maintenance/mini-servicing/ owners will have 24/7 access to servicing quotes, full TLC information, educational videos, online service booking and a dealer locator.

“We don’t like to see our customers waste their money,” said MINI Aftersales Director, Richard Price. “Our TLC servicing pack represents great value... but only if people use it. The new site is designed to help owners see if they have servicing value left on their pack, helping them to avoid paying twice. For those who have already used the full value, the site will help them get a fixed price servicing quote.”

About TLC
With MINI TLC, buyers can relax in the knowledge that their comprehensive servicing needs are covered for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever milestone is reached first.

The TLC pack, which is a fully transferable between owners and may enhance resale value, includes fixed-cost servicing, genuine MINI parts fitted by approved technicians and full authorized workshop service history stamps.

What’s more, MINI MOT Protect is now also included, which means that in the unlikely event that a MINI should fail its first, second or third MOT, MINI will cover the cost of repair or replacement of parts and labour costs.

For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website CLICK HERE.

MINI Goodwood Festival of Speed.

HILL YEAH! MINI @ GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED

• 2014 Dakar champion Nani Roma to take victorious Dakar 
• MINI ALL4 Racing up Goodwood’s famous Hillcilmb
• MINI John Cooper Works Hatch concept to make UK debut
• The New Original: MINI Hatch takes centre stage
• Full-size MINI Hatch simulators on stand

Fresh from yet another victory in the Dakar Rally, the 300 hp MINI ALL4 Racing will be at the 2014 Goodwood Festival of Speed to take on a new challenge.

The three-time Dakar winning racer wowed the world again this year with its blistering performance during the 15-day cross-country endurance race. And now, on Friday 27th June, the MINI ALL4 Racing will showcase what it’s made of when race ace, Nani Roma, takes it up the famous 1.16 mile hillclimb.

Complementing the MINI ALL4 Racing on stand will be the car on which it is based – the newly revised MINI Countryman. As the first MINI offered with the brand’s intelligent ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, this latest model introduces enhanced efficiency, refinement and new rugged styling cues. New colours, including Jungle Green, and an increased output of 190 hp on the Cooper S further boost the Countryman’s position in the premium compact segment.

MINI fans craving track-pedigree models can feast their eyes on the MINI John Cooper Works Hatch Concept, which will be on display for the first time in the UK. The concept, which premiered at the NAIAS 2014 in Detroit, heralds the next generation of sporty John Cooper Works models. Developed with extensive race-track expertise, the car features large air inlets in the front apron, a rear spoiler as well as distinctively designed side sills and rear apron – complemented by sports brakes and a sports exhaust system.

Current John Cooper Works models will join the new concept on stand, with the MINI JCW Roadster, MINI JCW Coupé and new MINI JCW Paceman in limited edition Frozen Black all making an appearance.

Completing the on-stand line-up is the all-new MINI Hatch. Launched in March this year, the new generation Hatch is a contemporary evolution of classic MINI design, with improved features and higher quality. As of June 2014, MINI UK has the strongest forward order bank for the Hatch since the brand was relaunched in 2001. An LED blue arch will be positioned over the car to represent MINI Connected – MINI’s class-leading in-car connectivity.

Designed to replicate MINI’s famous ‘go-kart’ handling, three full-size MINI Hatch simulators will be on stand allowing everyone to try Britain’s most loved car. Visitors to the stand can participate in a virtual race up the Goodwood Hillclimb in the simulator, with prizes for the best times.

For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website CLICK HERE.

GoPro cameras via MINI OS

• World first for a car brand: Control GoPro cameras via MINI operating system
• Cameras can be controlled through free-to-download App
• Available in Apple App Store from June

The MINI has never exactly been camera-shy, but now the brand’s latest models can get themselves on camera easier than ever before.

A new MINI Connected ready App enables GoPro cameras to be controlled via the dashboard – meaning shooting a movie is now as easy as changing a song or altering the air conditioning. MINI is the first car brand whose operating system can be used to control GoPro cameras.

This makes it possible to start shooting video with a camera mounted on or inside the car while travelling. The functionality is intuitive, convenient and, most important of all, safe. Apple iPhone owners can download the new MINI Connected App free of charge from the Apple App Store from June 2014.

GoPro cameras are specially designed for taking photographs and shooting videos during adventure sports and leisure activities, and are even used by racing enthusiasts to document their driving skills. With the new App, MINI drivers will be able to concentrate on finding the ideal line while having fun on the race track.

Thanks to the new GoPro MINI Connected ready App, camera functions can be operated via the high-resolution colour display on the central area of the dashboard and the MINI Joystick or MINI Touch Controller in the centre console, requiring minimum distraction.

The car must be fitted with the MINI Visual Boost Radio and MINI Connected or the MINI Connected XL package. The integration of the App inside the vehicle’s operating system is handled through the customer's Apple iPhone, while a WLAN connection is maintained between the GoPro camera and iPhone.

There is a choice of video and single-image shots as well as a photo series mode with short or long interval options. Special modes are also available to optimise image quality in various driving situations such as night time or cornering. The camera can also be switched on and off using the MINI’s centre console, and the charge state of the camera battery and remaining recording capacity can also be displayed on screen. When the car is not moving, a preview image can be displayed which shows the camera’s perspective.

This new MINI Connected ready App once again demonstrates the limitless capabilities of the unique MINI infotainment system. With Apps developed by third-party providers and designed especially for use in the MINI, the range of Apps available is continually expanding.

Apps available now include a wide spectrum of services such as Glympse, AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster, TuneIn and the Amazon Cloud Player. Then there are the services built into the MINI Connected system such as a web radio and RSS news feeds as well as social media including Facebook, Twitter and foursquare. Online search and functions exclusive to MINI such as Driving Excitement, Mission Control, Dynamic Music and MINIMALISM are also available, as well as the new MINI Connected XL Journey Mate for interactive travel planning and support for Real Time Traffic Radar.

For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website CLICK HERE.

New MINI Cooper SD Hatch

NEW MINI COOPER SD HATCH IS TORQUIEST MINI EVER!

• 360 Nm and 170 hp result in 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds
• CO2 emissions of 107 g/km, and 68.9 mpg combined
• Available July, priced from £19,450 OTR

The new MINI Hatch looks set to broaden its appeal with the introduction of a new range-topping diesel engine: the MINI Cooper SD 3-door Hatch.

Since its UK market launch in March this year, the new MINI Hatch has been a runaway success winning both critical acclaim and new customers. As of June 2014, MINI UK has the strongest forward order bank for Hatch since the brand was relaunched in 2001.

In total there are now six power units available for the 3-door Hatch in the UK, including three petrol and three diesel engines – all of which were newly developed. This new engine generation, which features three or four cylinders and MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology, creates the basis for a clear boost in efficiency and performance.

The MINI Cooper SD 3-door Hatch offers an impressively favourable balance between fun and frugality, and is the torquiest ever fitted to MINI. The 2.0-litre 4-cylinder engine generates a peak torque output of 360 Nm at 1500 rpm. It also boasts a power output of 170 hp. New MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology has a turbocharging system with variable turbine geometry and common rail injection with magnet valve injectors operating at a maximum pressure of 2,000 bar. This combination of technology enables both highly spontaneous power delivery as well as a precisely controlled fuel supply.

Thanks to the pulling power of the new diesel engine, the MINI Cooper SD completes the sprint to 62 mph in 7.3 seconds. The optionally available 6-speed automatic transmission sees this figure drop to 7.2 seconds. This sporty character is combined with an average fuel consumption of 68.9 mpg in each case, with CO2 emissions of 109 grams per kilometre (automatic: 107g/km, EU test cycle figures, dependent on tyre selection).

Just like the rest of the MINI Hatch model range, the MINI Cooper SD 3-door Hatch is built at MINI Plant Oxford, the brand’s high-tech global manufacturing base. Priced from £19,450 OTR, the latest MINI Hatch model will be available to order at MINI dealers nationwide from July.

For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website CLICK HERE.

MINI 5-Door Hatch

MORE DOORS, MORE FUN: MEET THE FIRST-EVER MINI 5-DOOR HATCH

• The first-ever MINI Hatch with 5-doors arrives this autumn
• New model combines distinctive character and refinement of 3-door with enhanced appeal of two extra doors
• Additional space and practicality comes as standard – 278 litres of boot space, 72mm more rear legroom and third seat in rear
• Introduction of new Cooper SD engine variant with 360Nm
• Built at MINI Plant Oxford, priced from £15,900 OTR

Just months after launching the new MINI Hatch, MINI has today expanded its model range with the addition of an entirely new body variant – the MINI 5-door Hatch.

It’s the first time in the history of the brand that the Hatch has been offered with two rear doors, and the new model promises to combine the hallmark driving fun, distinctive character and refinement of its 3-door sibling with enhanced practicality.

This brand new model features enhanced interior comfort and practicality thanks to the extended wheelbase. Rear passengers now have 72 millimetres more legroom compared to the 3-door Hatch, while the increased space also provides room for a third seat in the back row. The two rear doors make access to the enhanced rear seating more comfortable.

The new model offers an additional 15 millimetres of headroom. Meanwhile, the car's interior width at elbow height also increases by 61 millimetres. The boot has a volume of 278 litres, up 67 litres or around 30 per cent compared to the 3-door Hatch.

The body of the new MINI Cooper 5-door Hatch and Cooper D 5-door Hatch is 3,982 millimetres long, 1,727 millimetres wide and 1,425 millimetres tall. This makes the MINI 5-door Hatch 161 millimetres longer and 11 millimetres taller than the 3-door MINI Hatch. The width remains unchanged. The wheelbase has been extended by 72 millimetres to 2,567 millimetres, while the track is identical to that of the 3-door model.

Exterior design: Unmistakably MINI

Like all MINI models, the new MINI 5-door Hatch has an unmistakable appearance. The body, greenhouse and roof are visually separated from one another. The window line tapers off to the rear, contributing to a dynamic wedge shape when viewed in profile.

The wide track and short overhangs emphasise the striking design language of the vehicle's body. Traditional design features include the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, the side indicator surrounds known as ‘side scuttles’, the circular headlights, the upright rear light clusters and the black periphery at the bottom edge of the body.

The MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch and MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch models emphasis their sporty flair with a honeycomb pattern in the radiator grille, an anthracite bumper trim, bonnet scoop, brake air ducts integrated in the lower air inlets and a separate rear apron with exhaust pipes located at the centre. These model variants also bear a red ‘S’ logo with a chrome border, not only on the side scuttle elements but also on the chrome bar of the radiator grille.

There is a palette of two solid and nine metallic exterior colours for the new MINI 5-door Hatch, including the return of customer favourite ‘Electric Blue’. In all models, the roof and exterior mirror caps can be finished in a contrasting colour, white or black, as a no-cost option.

Engines: Fun and frugal

All MINI engines are balanced for fuel consumption and performance. At the UK launch of the MINI 5-door Hatch, the new Cooper D offers combined fuel economy of 78.5 mpg while CO2 emissions start from 95 g/km. The Cooper S Hatch can dispatch the sprint to 62mph in just 6.8 secs.

There are four engines with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology to choose from. A 3-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 136 bp powers the MINI Cooper 5-door Hatch. The output of the 4-cylinder petrol engine in the MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch is 192 hp. The new MINI Cooper D 5-door Hatch is powered by an 116 hp 3-cylinder diesel engine.

With the introduction of the new model, the MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch is presented for the first time with a new 2.0-litre 4-cylinder diesel power unit that has an output of 170 hp. This highly capable new engine offers a perfect balance of exhilarating performance, with a 0-62 time of 7.4 seconds, and frugal economy of 68.9 mpg.

All model variants of the new MINI 5-door Hatch meet the EU6 exhaust emission standard.

As with every other MINI, the latest generation of engines ensures an exceptional balance of performance and fuel consumption. This is supported by the newly developed 6-speed manual and 6-speed automatic transmissions, as well as extensive MINIMALISM fuel-efficiency technology. MINI’s famed go-kart feeling on the road is guaranteed thanks to a model-specific version of the refined suspension technology. Variable Damper Control with adjustable dampers is available as an option, as are MINI driving modes which offers drivers the choice between SPORT, MID and GREEN modes.

Using a rotary switch at the base of the gearstick or selector lever, drivers can swap from the default MID mode to either SPORT or GREEN. The three choices offer a set-up which is either performance-oriented, comfortable and well-balanced or geared towards fuel efficiency. MINI Driving Modes also influences the ambient lighting, shift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the Variable Damper Control if the option is selected.

The MINI 5-door Hatch also benefits from the same high standards of the new generation MINI 3-door Hatch in many other ways, including the use of quality materials and workmanship, safety, acoustic and NVH comfort and innovative equipment.

Cutting-edge manual and automatic transmissions

The new MINI 5-door Hatch comes with a six-speed manual transmission as standard featuring rev matching on downward shifts. A six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option on each engine.

Both transmission systems were newly developed for the new generation MINI 3-door Hatch. The automatic features an engine start/stop function, preventing unnecessary fuel consumption. When used in conjunction with the MINI Navigation System, it’s able to take account of the selected route profile and control gear shifts. Based on navigation data, the appropriate drive position is selected to match the road ahead, preventing unnecessary upshifts.

On the Cooper S and Cooper SD, a six-speed sports automatic transmission is available which enables even shorter shift times on the MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch and Cooper SD 5-door Hatch, featuring rev matching on downward shifts and can be operated in manual mode using shift paddles behind the steering wheel.

MINIMALISM environmental technologies continue to feature on all MINI vehicles, and the new Hatch is no exception. Designed to reduce fuel consumption, the suite of standard features includes a shift-point display function and optimised preheating process on the diesels. Brake energy recuperation and need-oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump and other ancillary units feature on all models.

The electromechanical power steering and map-controlled oil pumps in all engines are optimised for the most efficient use. An optimised preheating process achieves approximately 50 per cent reduction in the energy required to start the diesel engines.

Depending on the model variant, optimisation of aerodynamic properties has been achieved by measures such as active cooling air flaps, extensive underbody trim and air ducting elements in the upper section of the C columns. With a drag coefficient (Cd value) of 0.30 (MINI Cooper 5-door Hatch, MINI Cooper D 5-door Hatch) or 0.32 (MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch) and 0.33 (MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch), the new MINI 5-door Hatch is at the forefront its segment in terms of aerodynamics.

Comfortable, functional and individual - high-end spec as standard

The MINI 5-door Hatch features a high level of standard specification, including USB interface and Bluetooth, electrically adjustable exterior mirrors, front fog lamps and onboard computer. Air-conditioning is available free of charge on all models.

These can be supplemented with a range of desirable options for comfort, convenience, additional functionality and customisation. They include two-zone automatic air-conditioning, heated front seats, panoramic glass roof, windscreen heating, rain sensors and automatic light control, a Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and a sports leather steering wheel. Other options include Park Distance Control, electrically heated and folding exterior mirrors, and both interior and exterior mirrors with automatic anti-dazzle function.

Class-leading technology

The MINI 5-door Hatch’s standard display and operating controls can be supplemented with a class leading 8.8 inch display, fitted in the central instrument, as well as the MINI Touch Controller.

An optional LED light ring for the central display provides visual feedback to the driver. For example, when Park Distance Control is activated, the remaining distance to obstacles is shown by means of a ring of light which is illuminated in green, yellow or red – supplementing the graphic display.

Like its 3-door sibling, the MINI 5-door Hatch is the first car in its class to offer the option of LED headlights. The bright white units provide the light source for both low and high beam. They are also surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring, the lower section of which reaches down to the white turn indicators.

Other key equipment options available include LED fog lamp, ambient interior lighting and Comfort Access.

MINI Connected: More connected than ever

MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL is also available in conjunction with the MINI Visual Boost Radio and the MINI Navigation System on the MINI 5-door Hatch. It offers extensive integration of smartphones inside the car, enabling the use of internet-based services in the areas of infotainment, communication and driver experience. This functionality is provided via a diverse and continually expanding number of apps which are downloaded to a connected smartphone.

MINI Connected XL now includes the Journey Mate function for networked navigation, with Real Time Traffic Information.

The MINI Connected app and MINI Connected-ready apps supplied by third-party providers are available for the Apple iPhone and a number of smartphones using the Andriod operating system.

MINI Connected remains the access point for vehicle-related functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and the MINIMALISM Analyser. MINI Connected is also the way into online-based services such as web radio, the use of social networks including Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, receiving RSS news feeds and entertainment features such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster and TuneIn.

Another innovative feature is the Intelligent Emergency Calling (E-call). This MINI option is a first in the premium compact car segment, and is used to establish phone connections required for the use of optional functions such as Emergency Call. In the event of an accident, this system automatically detects vehicle location, accident severity and contacts a call centre to initiate fast and effective assistance.

The SIM card also enables use of MINI Teleservices. This class-leading telematics feature provides automatic transmission of service-related vehicle data to a MINI Service Partner of the customer's choice.

Interior design: Premium and practical

Precise lines, premium colour and material combinations and modern functionality highlight how the MINI 5-door Hatch’s cabin is a contemporary reworking of a design classic. The horizontal structure of the cockpit and the circular or elliptical contours of central features such as air vents, instruments and door trim are among the best-loved MINI design elements. The innovative display and controller is ideal for safe and intuitive use of the various driver assistance systems, infotainment and comfort functions.

The instrument cluster on the steering column displays road speed, engine speed and fuel level. The speedometer scale includes a colour panel for Check Control messages, vehicle status displays and visual indicators relating to driver assistance systems currently activated.

As soon as the key is inside the car, the engine of the new MINI 5-door Hatch can be started by pressing the toggle start/stop button located in the middle of the centre console, which glows red.

Extended functionality & hallmark MINI style

The extended interior space along with numerous clever details makes the new MINI 5-door Hatch extremely functional and practical. The rear backrest with a 60:40 split can be folded down. This enables the load volume to be increased in stages as required, from 278 litres to as much as 941 litres. Numerous cupholders and cubby holes make it easy to take drinks and travel items in the car, and there is an additional storage compartment is optionally available behind the trim strip on the passenger side. A storage package is also available as an option, and includes a double dual-section load compartment floor, additional lashing eyes and floor net for the luggage compartment, seats which can be angled more steeply so as to create more luggage space and map pouches for the backrests of the front seats.

Seats in a fabric/leather combination and leather finish are offered as an alternative to the standard fabric version. The MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch and the MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch are fitted with sport seats as standard and these are also available as an option for the other variants. The sport seats offer excellent lateral support and adjustable thigh support.

Lightweight, safe and agile

Intelligent lightweight construction means that weight reduction in the MINI is combined with a high level of rigidity. The result is improved agility and occupant protection. In spite of the wide range of fittings, virtually all variants of the new MINI 5-door Hatch are lighter than their competitors in the segment. Highly resilient load-bearing structures, advanced deformation zones and an extremely stable passenger cell provide an excellent basis for keeping impact energy away from passengers and ensuring maximum occupant protection. The safety concept behind the new MINI 5-door Hatch is geared towards achieving maximum scores on all the relevant crash tests worldwide.

Comprehensive safety technology

The standard safety fittings of the new MINI 5-door Hatch comprise front and side airbags, as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats. All seats are fitted with 3-point seat belts, belt tensioners and belt force limiters at the front. ISOFIX child seat mountings are provided at the rear and the front passenger seat.

Driver assistance systems

The MINI 5-door Hatch continues to innovate with a range of technologies designed to help protect those inside and outside the vehicle. They include the optional MINI Head-Up-Display which shows information relevant to the driver on an extendable monitor in the upper section of the dashboard. With the new Driving Assistant option, a camera-based cruise control and distance control function which automatically maintains a predetermined distance from the vehicle ahead. It includes a collision and pedestrian warning system with initial brake function, road sign detection and high-beam assistant. A rear view camera and parking assistant are also available for the MINI 5-door Hatch.

In addition to ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, and driving stability control system (DSC), the new MINI also includes a drive-off assistant, brake dry function, fading brake support and dynamic traction control (DTC). This latter system permits controlled slip at the drive wheels so as to facilitate driving off on loose sand or deep snow.

The new MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch and MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch feature a performance control system, which counteracts any tendency to understeer, supporting an agile yet neutral driving response in corners.

Competitive pricing 

The new MINI 5–door Hatch range starts at £15,900 OTR. There is a modest model-for-model price increase of £600 compared to its 3-door sibling.

Model	OTR Cost
MINI Cooper 5-door Hatch	£15,900
MINI Cooper D 5-door Hatch	£17,050
MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch	£19,255
MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch	£20,050

Built at Plant Oxford, MINI’s state of the art global manufacturing base, the MINI 5-door Hatch will hit UK roads this autumn.

For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website CLICK HERE.