tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87466722389444331742024-03-13T04:09:14.592+00:00Specialist Cars MINIAnonymousnoreply@blogger.comBlogger136125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-881795522770707192015-01-20T11:47:00.002+00:002015-01-20T11:53:36.386+00:00MINI win Dakar Rally<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI celebrates its fourth consecutive overall win at the Dakar Rally // Nasser Al-Attiyah triumphs in the MINI ALL4 Racing // Four MINI ALL4 Racing cars among the five fastest cars.</b><br />
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Munich (DE). The MINI brand has achieved further success at the Dakar Rally. After covering more than 9,000 kilometres spanning Argentina, Chile and Bolivia, MINI won the world’s toughest rally for the fourth time in a row. Nasser Al-Attiyah/Mathieu Baumel (QT/FR) crossed the finishing line in the Argentinian capital Buenos Aires (AR) as the overall winners, having won five of the 13 legs in their MINI ALL4 Racing.<br />
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“I promised last year when I was on the podium that I'd be back to win, and now I'm here,” said Al-Attiyah. “It was very hard to lead the race from the very beginning and to continue keeping this position on the long distance. Also because the race was really hard. I'm very happy about this great result and I want to thank and congratulate all mechanics and the team for the great job they have done during the two weeks. The MINI ALL4 Racing is an incredible car and it was again very nice to drive.” <br />
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“Nasser Al-Attiyah winning the 2015 Dakar Rally in the MINI ALL4 Racing is continuing the success story of MINI at one of the toughest races in motorsport,” said Senior Vice President MINI, Jochen Goller. “I would like to congratulate him and his team to this fantastic achievement, which the worldwide MINI community is obviously delighted about.”<br />
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“We always knew there would be many unforeseeable challenges on this 9,000+ kilometer adventure across South America and that the final result remains unpredictable till the very last days of the rally,“ said Goller. “On the other hand we also knew that the x-raid team, the MINI ALL4 Racing and of course all MINI drivers entered the competition extremely well-prepared and for this I want to personally thank the x-raid team head Sven Quandt.“<br />
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The “Dakar” entrants faced numerous unforeseeable challenges on the demanding route from Buenos Aires in Argentina via Iquique in Chile and Uyuni in Bolivia. From classic gravel rallying in Argentina and winding mountain roads through the Andes at altitudes of up to 4,500 metres in Bolivia to the extremely dry and hot Atacama Desert in Chile with its towering dunes and fine sand, the “Dakar” tested both man and machine to their limits. The drivers and co-drivers had to remain absolutely focused throughout the event.<br />
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The MINI ALL4 Racing provided further impressive evidence of its speed and reliability at the 2015 Dakar Rally. Once again, it proved to be a great all-rounder. “With now four Dakar victories in a row to its name from 2012 to 2015, the MINI ALL4 Racing proved once more to be the car to beat confirming its reliability, strength and agility in a convincing manner,” Goller said. “Our goal this year was to achieve another great overall team result and, with five MINI ALL4 Racing finishing the 2015 Dakar Rally in the top ten, nine MINI ALL4 Racing reaching the finish line, eleven stage victories with four different drivers and Nasser winning the world’s toughest marathon rally, we have successfully met all our targets. During the 2015 Dakar Rally, we have certainly seen the best MINI ALL4 Racing ever, and I am already looking forward to seeing it compete in the 2015 long-distance World Cup in preparation for the 2016 Dakar Rally.”<br />
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All in all, the MINI ALL4 Racing won eleven of the 13 legs at this year’s “Dakar”. Five of these were double victories for MINI. No fewer than four MINI ALL4 Racing cars ranked among the top five cars in the overall standings.<br />
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Al-Attiyah/Baumel were joined at the top of the table by Krzysztof Holowczyc/Xavier Panseri (PL/FR) in third place overall, while Erik van Loon/Wouter Rosegaar (NL/NL) came in a strong fourth after entering the “Dakar” in the MINI ALL4 Racing for the first time. Vladimir Vasilyev/Konstantin Zhiltsov (RU/RU) – overall winners of the 2014 FIA World Cup for Cross-Country-Rallies in the MINI ALL4 Racing – finished fifth. Aidyn Rakhimbayev/Anton Nikolaev (KZ/RU) also ranked among the top ten, securing ninth place overall. Nine of the ten MINI ALL4 Racing cars that started the race made it across the finishing line in Buenos Aires.<br />
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<b>Results 2015 Dakar Rally. </b><br />
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01 Al-Attiyah/Baumel - MINI ALL4 Racing - 40:32:25h<br />
02 De Villiers/Von Zitzewitz - 41:07:59h<br />
03 Holowczyc/Panseri – MINI ALL4 Racing - 42:04:26h<br />
04 Van Loon/Rosegaar – MINI ALL4 Racing - 43:34:17h<br />
05 Vasilyev/Zhiltsov – MINI ALL4 Racing - 43:45:06h<br />
09 Rakhimbayev/Nikolaev – MINI ALL4 Racing – 44:41:09h<br />
12 Garafulic/Palmeiro – MINI ALL4 Racing – 46:00:34h<br />
13 Zhou/Schulz – MINI ALL4 Racing – 46:07:49h<br />
17 Terranova/Graue – MINI ALL4 Racing – 47:39:19h<br />
21 Schott/Schmidt – MINI ALL4 Racing – 49:51:23h<br />
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<b>MINI ALL4 Racing 2015 Dakar Rally Lineup.</b><br />
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Monster Energy Rally Raid Team.<br />
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#300 Nani Roma/Michel Périn (ES/FR)<br />
#305 Orlando Terranova/Bernardo „Ronnie“ Graue (AR/AR)<br />
#306 Krzysztof Holowczyc/Xavier Panseri (PL/FR)<br />
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<b>X-raid Team.</b><br />
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#310 Vladimir Vasilyev/Konstantin Zhiltsov (RU/RU)<br />
#314 Erik van Loon/Wouter Rosegaar (NL/NL)<br />
#319 Boris Garafulic/Filipe Palmeiro (CL/PT)<br />
#329 Aidyn Rakhimbayev/Anton Nikolaev (KZ/RU)<br />
#332 Zhou Yong/Andreas Schulz (CN/DE)<br />
#334 Stephan Schott/Holm Schmidt (DE/DE)<br />
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<b>Qatar Rally Team.</b><br />
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#301 Nasser Al-Attiyah/Mathieu Baumel (QT/FR)<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>
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<b>NEW MINI JCW HATCH IS MOST POWERFUL MINI EVER!</b><br />
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<li>2.0-litre engine with MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology.</li>
<li>6-speed manual transmission as standard, 6-speed Steptronic sports transmission optional.</li>
<li>New high-performance Brembo brakes with four-piston front callipers.</li>
<li>Exclusive 17-inch John Cooper Works Race Spoke light alloy wheels.</li>
<li>Aerodynamically optimised body design: front apron with large cooling air inlets; distinctive side sill & rear apron design; JCW rear spoiler.</li>
<li>Combined economy of 49.5mpg; CO2 emissions: 133g/km (both auto).</li>
<li>Priced from £22,865. On sale late April. </li>
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The hottest ticket in town at next month’s Detroit Auto Show will be the new MINI John Cooper Works.<br />
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Packing the most powerful engine ever for a production MINI – a 2.0-litre TwinPower Turbo unit delivering 231 hp and 320 Nm – the JCW also draws on the brand’s motorsport expertise with a package of suspension, brake, aerodynamic and interior modifications to deliver race-car sensations without losing sight of MINI’s premium position.<br />
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Compared with the previous MINI JCW, the new model delivers 10 per cent more power and 23 per cent more torque. This brings the 0-62 mph time down by 0.2 seconds to 6.3 seconds with the six-speed manual gearbox, and by 0.6 seconds to 6.1 seconds with the optional six-speed Steptronic sports transmission.<br />
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Equally impressive is the greatly improved driving flexibility, courtesy of the increased torque – acceleration from 50-75 mph is now 10 per cent quicker at 5.6 seconds, accompanied by an emotive rasp from twin tailpipes of the sports exhaust.<br />
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In true MINI style, the driving fun does not involve any fuel consumption penalty. Combined consumption with the manual gearbox is 42.2 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 155 g/km. With the optional Steptronic sports transmission fuel economy improves by 20 per cent to 49.5 mpg, with CO2 emissions of 133 g/km.<br />
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The suspension and the Servotronic electromechanical power steering have been tuned to allow drivers to exploit the new JCW’s extra power and torque in complete safety, and there are newly developed four-piston Brembo brakes within 17-inch John Cooper Works Spoke light-alloy wheels. John Cooper Works 18-inch alloys are optional. Dynamic Stability Control (DSC), Dynamic Traction Control (DTC), Electronic Differential Lock Control (EDLC) and Performance Control allow drivers of all abilities to get maximum enjoyment from the car, and Dynamic Damper Control is an option. <br />
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The aerodynamic changes have been designed with a purpose rather than for purely aesthetic reasons. A new front apron with large engine air intakes, distinctive side sills, a model-specific rear apron and a John Cooper Works spoiler differentiate the JCW from the standard 3-Door MINI Hatch. The JCW also has LED headlamps with white indicators, wheel-arch surrounds and a unique radiator grille, side scuttles and tailgate with JCW badging. A new colour option, Rebel Green, is exclusive to the JCW.<br />
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JCW highlights of the sporty interior include exclusive bucket seats with integrated headrests in Dinamica/fabric, the sills, a multi-function steering wheel with shift paddles (in conjunction with Steptronic transmission), gear selector, instrument displays, stainless steel pedals and footrest, Driving Excitement package and key.<br />
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Bespoke JCW personalisation options includes a model-specific MINI Head-Up display (with rev lights and gear indicator), Chili Red roof and door mirror covers, bonnet stripes and exterior and interior John Cooper Works Pro design accessories. These are in addition to the vast selection of high-end options available for the entire MINI range.<br />
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<b>Tech spec:</b><br />
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<li>4-cylinder MINI TwinPower Turbo engine with direct injection, fully variable valve control and variable camshaft control</li>
<li>Capacity: 1,998 cc</li>
<li>Output: 231 hp @ 5,200-6,000 rpm, max torque: 320 Nm @ 1,250-4,800 rpm</li>
<li>Acceleration (0–62mph) 6.1 seconds (auto); 6.3 seconds (man)</li>
<li>Top speed: 152mph</li>
<li>Average fuel consumption: 49.5 mpg (auto); 42.2 mpg (man)</li>
<li>CO2 emissions: 133 g/km (auto); 155 g/km (man) </li>
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<b>Exterior dimensions:</b><br />
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<li>Length: 3,874 millimetres</li>
<li>Width: 1,727 millimetres</li>
<li>Height: 1,414 millimetres</li>
<li>Wheelbase: 2,495 millimetres</li>
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
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<b>Double reason to celebrate: two milestones for MINI in Oxford</b><br />
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Three-millionth MINI leaves assembly line today; two million MINIs exported from the UK<br />
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Oxford/Munich. Thirteen years after the brand re-launch in 2001, MINI has reached an impressive milestone today, as the three-millionth MINI rolled off the assembly line at the Oxford plant in the UK. Two million MINIs have been exported from the UK to more than 110 countries over the same period. Harald Krüger, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for Production, and Peter Schwarzenbauer, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for MINI, BMW Motorrad, Rolls-Royce and Aftersales, joined Baroness Susan Kramer, British Minister of State for Transport, and Frank Bachmann, managing director of Plants Oxford and Swindon, to celebrate the special-anniversary vehicle as part of an official ceremony. The car is a MINI 5 Door sporting the UK’s Union Jack.<br />
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<b>Made in England: MINI production in the UK</b><br />
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Plant Oxford currently produces the MINI, MINI 5-door, MINI Convertible, MINI Roadster and MINI Coupé models. The success of the MINI brand can be seen in the positive developments at Plant Oxford since 2001. Back then, a single shift of around 2,400 employees produced about 300 cars a day. Today, the Oxford site employs around 4,000 people. Working three shifts, the plant produces around 1,000 MINI cars per day.<br />
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The UK is the MINI brand’s second-largest market worldwide after the US. The UK is also the fourth-largest market for the BMW Group. 80 per cent of the MINIs made in Oxford are exported, making MINI the third-largest vehicle exporter in the UK.<br />
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“The MINI brand has had strong ties to the UK for decades. Our MINI production in Oxford represents a commitment to the brand’s identity, firmly in line with our successful strategy of “production follows the market”. Oxford is the centre of our British MINI production network, with the Swindon pressings plant and the Hams Hall engine plant near Birmingham,” stated Board of Management member for Production Harald Krüger at the event celebrating the production milestone.<br />
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“Today, we mark two important milestones for MINI. Three million MINIs produced, and two million MINIs exported from Oxford to customers worldwide. These are impressive figures and definitely a reason to celebrate. In markets big and small, MINI has always appealed to customers on an emotional level,” said Board of Management member Peter Schwarzenbauer.<br />
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Transport Minister Baroness Kramer said: “I congratulate the workers at MINI Plant Oxford on reaching this remarkable milestone. The MINI is a British icon and is a major part of a thriving automotive industry spearheading the growing British economy. This government is working to create the right environment for car manufacturers like BMW to continue innovating and developing British-made cars with worldwide appeal.”<br />
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<b>Millions invested signals clear commitment to British production locations</b><br />
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The BMW Group has invested a total of around £1.75 billion in its British plants since 2000. Between 2012 and 2015 alone, the BMW Group is investing a total of £750 million in its MINI UK production network. This investment is part of the international growth strategy for the MINI brand and secures the long-term future of the Oxford plant and safeguard 5,600 jobs at the Oxford, Swindon and Hams Hall plants.<br />
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<b>Global growth strategy: expansion of production capacity</b><br />
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The BMW Group produced a total of 303,177 MINI-brand vehicles in 2013. The production volume at MINI Oxford reached 175,986 units. A further 125,559 units of the MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman were contract-manufactured at MSF Graz in Austria and other assembly plants in Asia.<br />
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The BMW Group further expanded its production capacities as the next major step in the implementation of its global growth strategy. With the significant growth of the MINI brand, the BMW Group requires additional external production capacity beyond that of MINI Plant Oxford. Sharing production of the MINI Hatch with contract manufacturer VDL Nedcar (Born, Netherlands) since July 2014 will give the BMW Group global production network greater flexibility for other models. The British production network will nevertheless remain the heart of MINI production.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-56565134087806690642014-07-21T09:32:00.003+01:002014-07-21T09:33:11.969+01:00The MINI Convertible<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>The MINI Convertible: ten years as the epitome of stylish open-top driving fun.</b><br />
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Summer's most seductive herald appeared just a few weeks before the start of spring. The MINI Convertible first hit the spotlight at the Geneva International Motor Show at the beginning of March 2004. For ten years now, the 4-seater open-top version of the British premium brand has been letting the sun shine in along boulevards and country roads all over the world.<br />
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From the very beginning, the MINI Convertible stood for refreshing openness, individual character and yet also a clear brand identity. Its upright windscreen ensured that the driver, front passenger and rear passengers instantly found themselves sitting in the open air as soon as the textile top was opened. Short overhangs at front and rear, large wheel arches, the height of the shoulder line and numerous hallmark brand design elements left no doubt as to the kinship of the open 4-seater model. And thanks to a precisely defined roof shape, the characteristic MINI proportions were instantly recognisable when the soft top was closed, too.<br />
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<b>Typical MINI: characteristic proportions, clever details. </b><br />
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But the MINI Convertible's distinctive charisma was by no means solely due to its design. Its premium quality - unique in the segment of small open-top cars - and its clever functionality likewise instantly enhanced its individual flair. In the very first generation of the MINI Convertible, for example, the soft top with its electrohydraulic roof mechanism could either be fully opened at the press of a button or else moved back in the front section by just 40 centimetres. Ever since then, this sliding roof function has enabled a carefully controlled supply of fresh air at speeds of up to 120 km/h.<br />
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The MINI Convertible was similarly flexible from the outset when it came to performing transportation tasks. The downward-opening luggage compartment tailgate, the Easy Load System with the upward-tilting roof frame and the foldable rear backrest all offered an unusual degree of versatility in this area.<br />
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With such a diverse array of strengths, the MINI Convertible soon became a global success. The quality and popularity of the open-top 4-seater also meant it was quick to achieve a high level of value retention. It was in 2007 that the MINI Convertible first achieved top position in the "Value Master" ranking published by the automobile magazine "Auto Bild". Since then the model has established a tradition of top placements in this ranking that is continued to this day by the current generation of the MINI Convertible.<br />
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<b>New generation perpetuates success story.</b><br />
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The latest edition of the agile sun-worshipper went on the market in 2009, right on time to mark the brand's 50th anniversary. With evolutionary design advancements reflecting an even sportier style, more powerful and also more efficient engines, a more refined premium-style interior, an optimised all-round view and numerous innovative equipment features, the new MINI Convertible now perpetuates its predecessor's success story.<br />
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A single-section, almost completely invisible roll-over bar which only extends when needed combined with increased body stiffness makes for further progress in the field of safety. Its high-quality textile top features improved acoustic properties as well as an electrically heatable glass rear window. It can be opened and closed in 15 seconds at speeds of up to 30 km/h.<br />
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The Always Open Timer was introduced as a new and likewise unique function. It measures open-top driving time to the nearest minute. The sliding soft top function has been retained as has the flexible load concept. The tailgate now has inside hinges and storage volume has been increased: to between 125 and 170 litres when driving with an open top and 660 litres when the roof is closed.<br />
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The range of engines has also been significantly expanded since the change of generation. There are currently three petrol and two diesel engines available for the MINI Convertible: The program ranges from the MINI One Convertible with 72 kW/98 hp and the MINI Cooper D Convertible with 82 kW/112 hp to the MINI Cooper Convertible with 90 kW/122 hp, the MINI Cooper SD Convertible with 105 kW/143 hp and the MINI Cooper S Convertible with 135 kW/184 hp. What is more, the open-top 4-seater is also available as an extremely sporty top-class athlete. The MINI John Cooper Works Convertible generates intense enthusiasm with its 155 kW/211 hp turbo engine. All engines are combined as standard with a 6-speed manual transmission, while a 6-speed automatic transmission is available as an optional extra.<br />
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<b>Driving fun in the open air: a speciality of the classic Mini, too. </b><br />
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Even classic Mini fans were unable to resist the attraction of open-top driving in the long run. However, it took the founding father of all modern small cars at least three decades before its creative space concept eventually included unhindered access for the sun and the wind. A convertible based on the classic Mini first saw the light of day in 1991 and was the work of the German Mini dealer Lamm in Kappelrodeck. With its reinforced sills and an integrated cross-member, the quality of the car's body conversion suitably impressed those responsible at Rover headquarters in the UK. As a result, the decision was made to produce a series of 75 classic Mini Convertibles for the domestic British market.<br />
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The classic Mini Convertible was developed by Rover Special Products and Karmann (Germany) and was presented to the public for the first time at the British Motor Show in Birmingham in October 1992 before going into production at the Mini plant in Longbridge. 1,081 specimens of the open-top classic were built there up until August 1996, all of which are now highly coveted rarities. Model-specific front and rear bumpers, flared wheel arches and sill trim elements gave it an exclusive appearance which was underscored in the interior by means of trim strips and a gear lever knob made of burr walnut, a leather steering wheel and a velour carpet. The open-air version of the classic Mini came in in two paint finishes: Nightfire Red with matching red top or Caribbean Blue with a grey top. In 1995 the blue body finish was replaced by the colour British Racing Green.<br />
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The model made do with just one type of engine under the bonnet: the 63-hp 4-cylinder in the Mini Cooper ensured flair and a refreshing airflow. The convertible version of the classic Mini was fitted with a manually operated soft top while an electrical mechanism was available as an optional extra.<br />
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Open-top driving fun: an integral part of the MINI model program now for ten years, reinforced by the MINI Roadster.<br />
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After the relaunch of the brand, much less patience was required of open-air motoring fans than in the era of the classic Mini. The MINI Convertible celebrated its debut just three years after the closed 3-door model went on the market. It has now defined the culture of open-top driving in the small car segment for a decade, having become a key linchpin within the brand's model program. The great importance of open-top driving to MINI today is reflected in the fact that the elegant 4-seater has since been joined by the purist, sporty and likewise refreshingly open 2-seater. The MINI Roadster is the perfect supplement to the brand family. Featuring two seats and a manual or semi-automatic soft top, it stands for a spontaneous fresh-air experience and thereby successfully follows the path previously smoothed by the MINI Convertible as the open-top original in the premium small car segment.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-51199472890880907932014-07-16T10:07:00.000+01:002014-07-16T10:07:40.849+01:00MINI Hatch Auto Express car of year<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI HATCH IS AUTO EXPRESS CAR OF THE YEAR!</b></div>
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<ul>
<li>New MINI Hatch crowned Auto Express Car of the Year for 2014</li>
<li>Editor-in-Chief Steve Fowler says MINI Hatch is “a car the UK can be proud of”</li>
<li>Built in Britain, loved the world over – MINI Hatch goes from strength to strength</li>
</ul>
The new MINI Hatch has been named Auto Express magazine’s Car of the Year 2014 at its annual New Car Awards.<br />
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Chris Brownridge, Director, MINI UK, collected the prestigious gong at a lavish ceremony held in London’s Grand Connaught Rooms. The prize was presented by the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief, Steve Fowler.<br />
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The new MINI Hatch rose above the crowd and saw off some incredibly strong opposition to take the top prize. As Britain’s best-selling weekly motoring magazine, Auto Express tests hundreds of new cars every year making this accolade particularly notable.<br />
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Explaining the reasons for MINI’s win, Steve Fowler said: “The MINI Hatch is the perfect Car of the Year for 2014 – it’s a small car that’s big on talent. We love the way it drives, the quality, the efficiency and the big car tech on board. It’s also built brilliantly in Britain – a car the UK can be proud of.”<br />
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Chris Brownridge added: “The new MINI Hatch has received universal acclaim since we launched it earlier this year. A great deal of work has gone in to refining performance, handling, style and quality with this all-new model and this recognition from Auto Express is testament to that effort.”<br />
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Thanking the Auto Express panel for choosing the new MINI Hatch, Brownridge continued: “This award is a real boost to all 6,000 MINI associates across Plant Hams Hall, Swindon and of course, Oxford, all of whom should be extremely proud of this achievement. They have created a car which in just a few months has captured the imagination of customers and the motor industry alike.”<br />
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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 July 2014, MINI UK has the strongest forward order bank for Hatch since the brand was relaunched in 2001.<br />
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Built in Britain at MINI Plant Oxford, the new MINI Hatch has benefited from a £750 million investment across three of BMW Group’s UK manufacturing facilities. Substantial upgrades to Plant Oxford and to Plant Swindon, where most of the MINI’s body pressings and sub-assemblies are manufactured, reaffirm the UK’s position as the global manufacturing home of MINI. The Hams Hall engine plant in Birmingham is also being re-equipped.<br />
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Starting at £13,750 OTR, the new MINI Hatch is packed with new features and technology. The car is more spacious than before, finished to an even higher standard and provides the driver with a more dynamic and performance-oriented experience. New first-for-class features such as LED headlamps and Emergency Calling (E-Call), as well as a suite of advanced three and four-cylinder engines, will ensure the Hatch stays well ahead of the pack for years to come.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-72343492263280272092014-07-07T22:35:00.000+01:002014-07-07T22:38:51.420+01:00The new MINI Paceman.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Fresh stimuli for the first Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment; the new MINI Paceman (combined fuel consumption: 7.1 - 4.2 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 165 – 111 g/km) underscores its exceptional standing as a sporty, elegant individualist with fresh design details, increased driving performance figures, further optimised efficiency, innovative equipment features and refined premium characteristics in the interior; pioneering automobile concept of a compact 3-door model with coupé-like lines, unique combination of driving fun and functionality and the optional all-wheel drive system ALL4 now gains additional appeal; increased engine output in the new MINI Cooper S Paceman consolidates driving fun leadership within the segment; market launch in July 2014 also includes the launch of the new edition of the extreme athlete MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.<br />
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Extravagant and powerfully expressive body design with horizontal lines, dynamic proportions and powerfully modelled surfaces in hallmark MINI design style; clearly signals driving fun with characteristic go-kart feeling and extended versatility due to all-wheel drive system ALL4; front section with powerful presence including hexagonal radiator grill contour; long doors with frameless windows in coupé style; high-opening tailgate; roof sits virtually seamlessly on top of the car, optionally available in contrasting colour; elongated silhouette resulting from the flowing roof line and the tapering side window graphic, now additionally emphasised with the new option Piano Black Exterior; new standard and optionally available light alloy wheels with reduced weight and optimised aerodynamic properties; other optional features: tyres with reduced rolling resistance; new exterior paint finishes Jungle Green metallic and Midnight Grey metallic.<br />
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Greater accentuation of sporty flair and premium characteristics in the interior of the new MINI Paceman; road speed and engine speed display now with dark dials in the style of the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman; interior in lounge-type design with four single seats and optimised acoustic comfort; newly designed chrome applications for the ventilation controls; MINI Center Rail storage system as standard; sports seats for driver and front passenger as standard; rear backrests individually foldable; as a result, luggage compartment volume can be expanded from 330 to up to 1 080 litres.<br />
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New MINI Paceman offering further increased driving fun and optimised efficiency; selection of two petrol and two diesel engines each with four cylinders; range also includes: top athlete MINI John Cooper Works Paceman with 160 kW/218 hp 4-cylinder turbo engine; all model variants now with emission rating according to the EU6 emission standard and extended MINIMALISM technology including optimised aerodynamic properties to reduce fuel consumption and emission levels; output increased by 5 kW to 140 kW/190 hp in the MINI Cooper S Paceman; 6-speed manual transmission as standard, 6-speed automatic transmission as an option: all-wheel drive system ALL4 as standard in the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman and optional for all other models.<br />
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Unique go-kart feeling thanks to high-quality suspension technology with McPherson spring struts and forged wishbones on the front axle, multilink rear axle and electromechanical power steering including Servotronic; sports chassis as standard for all model variants; Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) as standard, Dynamic Traction Control (DTC) including Electronic Differential Lock Control standard or optional, depending on model variant.<br />
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Integrated safety concept with crash-optimised body structure; extensive standard safety features now also include tyre pressure control on each wheel and daytime driving lights; occupant protection at the same level as the MINI Countryman, which scored the top 5-star rating on the Euro NCAP crash test.<br />
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Driving fun and comfort at premium level with extensive standard trim and a wide range of customisation options; high-end selection of optional extras, including new LED fog lamps with daytime driving lights and parking lights in LED technology as well as xenon headlamps and adaptive turning light, comfort access, glass push/tilt roof, automatic air conditioning, removable tow hitch with a trailer load of up to 1 200 kilograms, MINI navigation system, Sport Button, sports leather steering wheel with shift paddles for automatic transmission, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system; model-specific John Cooper Works accessories also available.<br />
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The most progressive networking technology within the competitive field for unique in-car infotainment; MINI Connected offers extensive smartphone integration in the vehicle and unique functional diversity with ongoing expansion based on apps; current program includes functions exclusive to MINI such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser, the use of Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, RSS news feed reception and entertainment programs such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn.<br />
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<b>Model variants:</b><br />
<br />
<b>MINI John Cooper Works Paceman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinderpetrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve control, valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC Technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc, output: 160 kW/218 hp at 6 000 rpm, max. torque: 280 Nm at 1 900 – 5 000 rpm </li>
<li>(300 Nm at 2 100 – 4 500 rpm with overboost)</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 6.8 seconds (automatic: 6.8 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 229 km/h (226 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.1 litres/100 kilometres (7.5 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 165 g/km (175 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper S Paceman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinderpetrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve control, valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC Technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc, output: 140 kW/190 hp at 5 500 – 6 500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm at 1 600 – 5 000 rpm </li>
<li>(260 Nm at 1 700 – 4 500 rpm with overboost)</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 7.4 seconds (automatic: 7.7 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 220 km/h (216 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.0 litres/100 kilometres (6.8 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 139 g/km (157 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
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<b>MINI Cooper S Paceman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinderpetrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and fully variable valve control, valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC Technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc, output: 140 kW/190 hp at 5 500 – 6 500 rpm, max. torque: 240 Nm at 1 600 – 5 000 rpm </li>
<li>(260 Nm at 1 700 – 4 500 rpm with overboost)</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 7.6 seconds (automatic: 8.0 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 217 km/h (215 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.4 litres/100 kilometres (7.1 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 148 g/km (165 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper Paceman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC Technology </li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 160 Nm at 4 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 10.3 seconds (automatic: 11.5 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 193 km/h (186 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.9 litres/100 kilometres (6.9 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 137 g/km (159 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
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<b>MINI Cooper Paceman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC Technology (in the MINI Cooper Paceman ALL4 with automatic transmission also: twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection)</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc, output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 160 Nm (MINI Cooper Paceman ALL4 with automatic transmission: 190 Nm at 4 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 11.4 seconds (automatic: 11.6 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 188 km/h (186 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.7 litres/100 kilometres (7.0 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 156 g/km (164 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
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<b>MINI Cooper SD Paceman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4 000 rpm </li>
<li>max. torque: 305 Nm at 1 750 – 2 700 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 9.1 seconds (automatic: 9.3 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 202 km/h (199 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (5.7 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 119 g/km (149 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nQc4fMyw3fI/U7sQfReCS0I/AAAAAAAANJs/xPgb3YQc538/s1600/P90155287-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>MINI Cooper SD Paceman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 305 Nm at 1 750 – 2 700 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 9.2 seconds (automatic: 9.3 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 199 km/h (197 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.8 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 126 g/km (156 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper D Paceman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc (MINI Cooper D Paceman with automatic transmission: 1 995 cc)</li>
<li>output: 82 kW/112 hp at 4 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 – 2 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 10.8 seconds (automatic: 11.2 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 188 km/h (183 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.2 litres/100 kilometres (5.6 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 111 g/km (148 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4ZfbT8rrixI/U7sQh-PEnsI/AAAAAAAANKE/CuJNzX7YVOM/s1600/P90155301-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>MINI Cooper D Paceman ALL4:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc (MINI Cooper D Paceman ALL4 with automatic transmission: 1 995 cc)</li>
<li>output: 82 kW/112 hp at 4 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 – 2 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0–100 km/h): 11.5 seconds (automatic: 11.8 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 183 km/h (178 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres)</li>
<li>CO2emissions: 123 g/km (155 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>Exterior dimensions:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Length: 4 109 millimetres (MINI Cooper S Paceman, MINI Cooper SD Paceman: 4 114 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Paceman: 4 124 millimetres)</li>
<li>Width: 1 786 millimetres</li>
<li>Height: 1 518 millimetres</li>
<li>Wheelbase: 2 596 millimetres</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DoP-GfWMTXY/U7sQiarZGOI/AAAAAAAANKM/Xk3bZmEh9rQ/s1600/P90155303-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
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New version of the first MINI with four doors, a large tailgate, five seats and optional all-wheel drive; new MINI Countryman (combined fuel consumption: 7.1- 4.2 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions: 165 - 111 g/km) hones its profile as an all-round talent for versatile mobility and an active lifestyle; fresh measures to ensure the continued success of the premium compact model that has sold more than 350,000 units worldwide; selective design modifications; further enhanced driving performance figures; optimised fuel consumption and emissions; increased engine output in the new MINI Cooper S Countryman; market launch of all model variants including the top sports model MINI John Cooper Works Countryman in July 2014.<br />
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Striking accents underscore the distinctive interpretation of the hallmark MINI body design; clear emphasis of the specific dimensions and proportions convey variable functionality and versatile athletic flair over all terrains; characteristic hexagonal radiator grille in new design reinforces the presence of the upright front section; visual underride guard elements for the front and rear apron and side sills now standard in conjunction with the all-wheel drive system MINI ALL4 (exception: MINI John Cooper Works Countryman) and optional for all other model variants; new standard and optionally available light alloy wheels with reduced weight and optimised aerodynamics properties; tyres with reduced rolling resistance as an option; new exterior paint finishes in Jungle Green metallic, Midnight Grey metallic and Starlight Blue metallic; additional customisation options include contrasting colours for the roof and exterior mirror caps, bonnet stripes and Sport Stripes as well as Piano Black Exterior - available for MINI for the first time.<br />
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Refined details, optimised acoustic comfort and reinforced premium characteristics in the interior; dark dials for road speed and engine speed; MINI John Cooper Works Countryman additionally with John Cooper Works logo in the central instrument; ventilation controls with chrome applications; five seats and exceptional variability with rear seats that can be shifted 13 centimetres longitudinally, backrests that are tilt-adjustable and foldable in a 40: 20 : 40 split; luggage compartment volume can be extended from 350 to as much as 1 170 litres.<br />
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Extensive engine portfolio comprising 4-cylinder petrol and 4-cylinder diesel engines; all engine types now with emission rating according to EU6 emission standard; increase in output by 5 kW to 140 kW/190 hp in the MINI Cooper S Countryman; optimised driving performance and fuel consumption figures due to extended MINIMALISM technology including improved aerodynamic properties; 6-speed manual transmission as standard, 6-speed automatic transmission as an option (exception: MINI One D Countryman); MINI specific all-wheel drive system ALL4 optional for the models MINI Cooper Countryman, MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper D Countryman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman, as standard in the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.<br />
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Outstanding safety; MINI Countryman with top 5-star rating on the Euro NCAP crash test thanks to extensive standard equipment features in the areas of active and passive safety, now supplemented with type pressure control on each individual wheel and daytime driving light.<br />
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High-quality standard trim and a wide selection of options for additional driving fun, increased comfort and maximum customisation; new LED fog lights including daytime driving and parking light in LED technology; other features available include xenon headlamps and adaptive turning light, comfort access, panorama glass roof, automatic air conditioning, removable tow hitch with trailer load of up to 1 200 kilograms, MINI navigation system, Sport Button, sports suspension, sports leather steering wheel with shift paddles for automatic transmission, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and model-specific John Cooper Works accessories.<br />
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Extensive MINI Connected in-car infotainment program; unique functional diversity and permanent expansion options with apps integrated in the automobile via smartphone; increased driving fun with typical MINI functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser; online connection also enables the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter and foursquare as well as Glympse, RSS news feed reception and entertainment programs such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-e1XUhwQd_kM/U7q4rZBhg3I/AAAAAAAANFY/Se5JfTJRW6c/s1600/P90155038-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>Model variants:</b><br />
<br />
<b>MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger</li>
<li>direct injection and fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 160 kW/218 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 280 Nm at 1 900 - 5 000 rpm (300 Nm at 2 100 - 4 500 rpm with overboost)</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 6.9 seconds (automatic: 6.9 seconds), top speed: 228 km/h (225 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 7.1 litres/100 kilometres (7.5 litres), CO2 emissions: 165 g/km (175 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper S Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger</li>
<li>direct injection and fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology,</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 140 kW/190 hp at 5 500 - 6 500 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 240 Nm at 1 600 - 5 000 rpm (260 Nm at 1 700 - 4 500 with overboost)</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.5 seconds (automatic: 7.8 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 218 km/h (214 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.0 litres/100 kilometres (6.8 litres)</li>
<li>CO2 emissions: 139 g/km (157 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-S6pliGgjueE/U7q4ouAwaRI/AAAAAAAANFA/EpeJtouYZ7M/s1600/P90154977-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>MINI Cooper S Countryman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger </li>
<li>direct injection and fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology, </li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 140 kW/190 hp at 5 500 - 6 500 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 240 Nm at 1 600 - 5 000 rpm (260 Nm at 1 700 - 4 500 with overboost) </li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 7.7 seconds (automatic: 8.1 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 215 km/h (213 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.4 litres/100 kilometres (7.1 litres) </li>
<li>CO2 emissions: 148 g/km (165 g/km)</li>
<li>exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 90 kW/122 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 160 Nm at 4 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 10.4 seconds (automatic: 11,6 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 191 km/h (184 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.9 litres/100 kilometres (6.9 litres)</li>
<li>CO2 emissions: 137 g/km (159 g/km)</li>
<li>exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-L02E_9nhv3Y/U7q4rTE5_2I/AAAAAAAANFc/_IeFGByDfdI/s1600/P90155029-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology (in the MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4 with automatic transmission also: twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection)</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 90 kW /122 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 160 Nm (MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4 with automatic transmission: 190 Nm) at 4 250 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.5 seconds (automatic: 11,7 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 186 km/h (184 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 6.7 litres/100 kilometres (7.0 litres)</li>
<li>C02 emissions: 156 g/km (164 g/km)</li>
<li>exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI One Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder petrol engine with fully variable valve control based on BMW Group VALVETRONIC technology</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 72 kW/98 hp at 6 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 153 Nm at 3 000 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.9 seconds (automatic: 13,9 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 175 km/h (170 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 5.7 litres/100 kilometres (6.9 litres)</li>
<li>C02 emissions: 134 g/km (159 g/km)</li>
<li>exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r9GWLlkr_eI/U7q4uGi-pcI/AAAAAAAANF0/tRWcW6hzMSY/s1600/P90155128-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>MINI Cooper SD Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase</li>
<li>common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 995 cc, output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4 000 rpm, max. torque: 305 Nm at 1 750 - 2 700 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.2 seconds (automatic: 9.4 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 200 km/h (197 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.5 litres/100 kilometres (5.7 litres)</li>
<li>C02 emissions: 119 g/km (149 g/km)</li>
<li> exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper SD Countryman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase, common rail injection and variable turbine geometry,</li>
<li>capacity: 1 995 cc</li>
<li>output: 105 kW/143 hp at 4 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 305 Nm at 1 750 - 2 700 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 9.3 seconds (automatic: 9.4 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 197 km/h (195 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.8 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres), C02 emissions: 126 g/km (156 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6.</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3qZYIeAG4I0/U7q4r4srxOI/AAAAAAAANFo/yqdaZsF7j50/s1600/P90155117-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>MINI Cooper D Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase</li>
<li>common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc (MINI Cooper D Countryman with automatic transmission: 1 995 cc)</li>
<li>output: 82 kW/112 hp at 4000 rpm, max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 - 2 250 rpm, acceleration: (0-100 km/h): 10.9 seconds (automatic: 11.3 seconds), top speed: 186 km/h (181 km/h), average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.2 litres/100 kilometres (5.6 litres), C02 emissions: 111 g/km (148 g/km), exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI Cooper D Countryman ALL4: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase</li>
<li>common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc (MINI Cooper D Countryman ALL4 with automatic transmission: 1 995 cc)</li>
<li>output: 82 kW/112 hp at 4000 rpm, max. torque: 270 Nm at 1 750 - 2 250 rpm, acceleration (0-100 km/h): 11.6 seconds (automatic: 11,9 seconds)</li>
<li>top speed: 181 km/h (176 km/h)</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.7 litres/100 kilometres (5.9 litres)</li>
<li>C02 emissions: 123 g/km (155 g/km)</li>
<li>exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MDNKua4JVEU/U7q4uuLCNeI/AAAAAAAANF8/_Aj80n2NP9Q/s1600/P90155137-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>MINI One D Countryman: </b><br />
<ul>
<li>4-cylinder turbodiesel with aluminium crankcase</li>
<li>common rail injection and variable turbine geometry</li>
<li>capacity: 1 598 cc</li>
<li>output: 66 kW/90 hp at 4 000 rpm</li>
<li>max. torque: 215 Nm at 1 750 - 2 500 rpm</li>
<li>acceleration (0-100 km/h): 12.9 seconds</li>
<li>top speed: 171 km/h</li>
<li>average fuel consumption according to EU: 4.2 litres/100 kilometres</li>
<li>CO2 emissions: 111 g/km, exhaust emission standard: EU6</li>
</ul>
<b>Exterior dimensions:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Length: 4 097 millimetres (MINI Cooper Countryman ALL4 and MINI Cooper D Countryman ALL4: 4 100 millimetres, MINI Cooper S Countryman and MINI Cooper SD Countryman: 4 109 millimetres, MINI John Cooper Works Countryman: 4 133 millimetres) Width: 1 789 millimetres</li>
<li>Height: 1561 (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman 1 549 millimetres) Wheelbase: 2 595 millimetres (MINI John Cooper Works Countryman 2 596 millimetres)</li>
</ul>
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-74614376689142079772014-07-02T16:15:00.000+01:002014-07-02T16:15:53.875+01:00MINI 5-door Hatch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>The new MINI 5-door Hatch rolls off the lines at Oxford</b><br />
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Plant Oxford today sees a production first as the new MINI 5-door Hatch comes off the production line.<br />
The new 5-door is a first for MINI production at the Oxford plant and marks another phase in the roll-out of a £750 million investment programme across BMW Group UK’s production facilities from 2011 to 2015.<br />
The car comes hot on the heels of the new MINI Hatch, which was launched in November. The new 5-door, which will go on sale in the autumn, is an exciting addition to the family of MINIs made in Oxford and opens up a whole new market segment.<br />
<br />
Business Secretary, Vince Cable said: “The launch of the all-new 5-door MINI is a further boost for the UK’s manufacturing sector, and will help to secure jobs in Oxford and Swindon as part of BMW’s £750 million investment programme in the UK. BMW’s continued commitment and investment in the UK underlines the continuing success story that is UK automotive manufacturing.<br />
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“Through the UK Government’s industrial strategy we are backing the auto sector as it goes from strength to strength. We are providing the right environment to give businesses the confidence to invest and create high skilled jobs.”<br />
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The 5-door is the second member of the MINI family to be built on a new platform. The innovative approach to design increases the flexibility of the body manufacturing process, allowing more models of greater variation to be produced more efficiently, an essential element of the MINI’s build-to-order appeal.<br />
Frank Bachmann, managing director of MINI Plants Oxford and Swindon, said: “This is an exciting day for us with the first ever 5-door MINI for the plant, which opens up a whole new market segment for the brand.<br />
“BMW Group has invested in creating state-of-the-art technology and facilities at Oxford and Swindon for the launch of this new generation of MINI, demonstrating the company’s commitment to a long-term future for its UK production sites.”<br />
<br />
Preparations for the new generation of MINI have seen the building of a new bodyshop at Oxford and significant investment in facilities and technologies at Plant Swindon, where the car’s body panels are pressed and a number of sub-assemblies made. Plant Oxford’s assembly employees also went through a programme of training to support the launch of the new model generation.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LYCsC74EHjA/U7Qgtdgg99I/AAAAAAAAM80/_2327Z_T0qY/s1600/P90153141-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<b>The new 5-door Hatch</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Key statistics</li>
<li>Measures 4m in length</li>
<li>161mm longer than the three-door</li>
<li>278 litres of boot space</li>
<li>15mm more headroom</li>
<li>61mm extra interior width</li>
<li>Three rear seats</li>
</ul>
<b>Production updates for the introduction of the new 5-door Hatch:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Additional tooling for the body sides at Plant Oxford’s new bodyshop</li>
<li>New equipment in the wax sealing line in the plant’s paintshop to accommodate the extra door and differences in the shaping of the rear of the car</li>
<li>New paint colours, including the return of “Electric Blue”</li>
<li>New rear door cells in the sub-assembly line at Plant Swindon</li>
<li>New roof and panel tooling in Swindon’s press shop</li>
</ul>
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TtxWh1rkpTc/U7Qgtwr7HqI/AAAAAAAAM84/mxJXeZcMPnE/s1600/P90153750-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-88635513643162800422014-06-24T19:24:00.000+01:002014-06-24T19:24:38.274+01:00Don't pay twice for Servicing<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI OWNERS! DON’T PAY TWICE FOR SERVICING</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Quarter of owners failing to use already-paid-for TLC servicing packs, opting instead to pay again at an independent garage</li>
<li>MINI launches new website that lets customers check TLC pack status</li>
<li>Visit www.mini.co.uk/owners/maintenance/mini-servicing/ for full TLC information, 24/7 access to servicing quotes, online service booking & dealer locator</li>
</ul>
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.<br />
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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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
“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.”<br />
<br />
About TLC<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-22220516580121385242014-06-19T15:25:00.000+01:002014-06-19T15:28:00.531+01:00MINI Goodwood Festival of Speed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>HILL YEAH! MINI @ GOODWOOD FESTIVAL OF SPEED</b><br />
<ul>
<li>2014 Dakar champion Nani Roma to take victorious Dakar </li>
<li>MINI ALL4 Racing up Goodwood’s famous Hillcilmb</li>
<li>MINI John Cooper Works Hatch concept to make UK debut</li>
<li>The New Original: MINI Hatch takes centre stage</li>
<li>Full-size MINI Hatch simulators on stand</li>
</ul>
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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-21232120231281714082014-06-14T15:18:00.003+01:002014-06-14T15:18:40.201+01:00GoPro cameras via MINI OS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<ul>
<li>World first for a car brand: Control GoPro cameras via MINI operating system</li>
<li>Cameras can be controlled through free-to-download App</li>
<li>Available in Apple App Store from June</li>
</ul>
The MINI has never exactly been camera-shy, but now the brand’s latest models can get themselves on camera easier than ever before.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-18537964919353984472014-06-10T22:23:00.001+01:002014-06-10T22:23:45.648+01:00New MINI Cooper SD Hatch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>NEW MINI COOPER SD HATCH IS TORQUIEST MINI EVER!</b><br />
<ul>
<li>360 Nm and 170 hp result in 0-62 mph in 7.3 seconds</li>
<li>CO2 emissions of 107 g/km, and 68.9 mpg combined</li>
<li>Available July, priced from £19,450 OTR</li>
</ul>
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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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).<br />
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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.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-677043167041371552014-06-09T09:58:00.001+01:002014-06-09T09:58:50.721+01:00MINI 5-Door Hatch<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>MORE DOORS, MORE FUN: MEET THE FIRST-EVER MINI 5-DOOR HATCH</b><br />
<ul>
<li>The first-ever MINI Hatch with 5-doors arrives this autumn</li>
<li>New model combines distinctive character and refinement of 3-door with enhanced appeal of two extra doors</li>
<li>Additional space and practicality comes as standard – 278 litres of boot space, 72mm more rear legroom and third seat in rear</li>
<li>Introduction of new Cooper SD engine variant with 360Nm</li>
<li>Built at MINI Plant Oxford, priced from £15,900 OTR</li>
</ul>
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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Exterior design: Unmistakably MINI</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Engines: Fun and frugal</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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All model variants of the new MINI 5-door Hatch meet the EU6 exhaust emission standard.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Cutting-edge manual and automatic transmissions</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Comfortable, functional and individual - high-end spec as standard</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Class-leading technology</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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Other key equipment options available include LED fog lamp, ambient interior lighting and Comfort Access.<br />
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<strong>MINI Connected: More connected than ever</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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MINI Connected XL now includes the Journey Mate function for networked navigation, with Real Time Traffic Information.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Interior design: Premium and practical</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Extended functionality & hallmark MINI style</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Lightweight, safe and agile</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Comprehensive safety technology</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Driver assistance systems</strong><br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Competitive pricing </strong><br />
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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.<br />
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<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="3"><tbody>
<tr><td valign="top" width="264"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Model</span></strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="264"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">OTR Cost</span></strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper 5-door Hatch</span></td>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£15,900</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper D 5-door Hatch</span></td>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£17,050</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper S 5-door Hatch</span></td>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£19,255</span></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper SD 5-door Hatch</span></td>
<td valign="top" width="264"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£20,050</span></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
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Built at Plant Oxford, MINI’s state of the art global manufacturing base, the MINI 5-door Hatch will hit UK roads this autumn.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-80724483330356710472014-05-28T14:38:00.001+01:002014-05-28T14:38:33.621+01:00MINI Superleggera™ Vision<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI Superleggera™ Vision - Timeless beauty that blends the traditional with the modern.</b><br />
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The BMW Group celebrates the meeting of the time-honoured and the contemporary at the Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este 2014 with a very special concept: the MINI Superleggera™ Vision. This exclusive interpretation of an open-top two-seater was created by MINI and Touring Superleggera, the tradition-steeped design and coach building house based in Milan. The MINI Superleggera™ Vision is on the one hand a classic roadster, a compact and agile two-seater, expressing the most minimalist and emotional style of motoring; and on the other hand its electric drivetrain gives the car distinctly modern driving dynamics. In collaboration with MINI, Touring Superleggera™ has designed and built an elaborately crafted, unique model which blends the tradition of classic coachwork construction with the MINI’s authentic British styling to create timeless aesthetic appeal.<br />
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<ul>
<li>Modern Britishness meets Italian flair: the iconic design of MINI meets elegant, athletic beauty - interpreted in contemporary style.</li>
<li>Classic Italian body construction and hand-shaped metal sheeting give the MINI SuperleggeraTM Vision a unique emotional appeal.</li>
<li>Both on the inside and outside, the form is reduced to the maximum extent so as to achieve a clear focus on the distinctive driving experience.</li>
<li>The interior reflects traditional coachwork construction in terms of materials and styling, combined with the icons of MINI interior design.</li>
<li>High-end materials such as leather, aluminium and black chrome highlight the clear aesthetics of the interior.</li>
</ul>
Adrian van Hooydonk, Senior Vice President BMW Group Design on the concept: "Touring Superleggera and MINI have much in common: both companies attach great importance to their history and this is something which defines their outward appearance to this day. What is more, they both emphasise iconic design and distinctive solutions. These elements are merged in the MINI SuperleggeraTM Vision to create an elegant automobile which interprets a British roadster under the influence of Italian style and hand craftsmanship."<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-woNQED-8gF0/U4XktC6F_ZI/AAAAAAAAMnc/2RJxWfWVkD8/s1600/P90151107-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>British design with an Italian accent - the exterior design. </b><br />
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"The MINI Superleggera™ Vision elegantly perpetuates what the Classic Mini started 55 years ago: reduction to the essentials. Its energetic, minimalistic design embodies the dynamic essence of an automobile. At the same time it creates unique emotional beauty in combining the past and future of the automotive industry, i.e. traditional coachwork craftsmanship and modern design styling. It was a pleasure for me to design a concept like this." says Anders Warming, Head of MINI Design.<br />
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The perfectly balanced proportions indicate at first glance what the electrically powered MINI Superleggera™ Vision has to offer in terms of a driving experience: the stretched bonnet, long wheelbase and cool, short overhangs convey pure driving fun. As in every MINI, the wheels are set widely on the body, promising a high degree of agility. The passenger cell is slightly set back, further underscoring the car's dynamic impression. The overall effect of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision is sporty, elegant and dynamic.<br />
The front of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision features the traditional MINI design icons: two circular headlights and a hexagonal grille define the unmistakable front section, providing a contemporary interpretation of features which have become firmly established over decades. There are also striking classic sports car elements such as a wide track and distinctively curved wheel arches that give the front a dynamic presence. The classic MINI bonnet stripes are three-dimensionally embossed and run on into high-quality polished aluminum accents. The inlaid bonnet harks back to classic British roadsters of bygone days.<br />
Meanwhile the horizontal rib look of the radiator grille adds a classic sporty touch. The fact that it is closed is a discreet indication of the car's electric motor. The two fog lights echo the circular contours of the headlamps, providing a smaller interpretation of them in the radiator grille. The air inlets are also circular, giving the front section a distinctive touch. A flat front splitter made of carbon fibre closes off the front to the road, thereby underscoring the car's sporty statement down to the last detail.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-jFq8pMTI150/U4XkvCC1rJI/AAAAAAAAMnk/-bqH7g7TRLo/s1600/P90151108-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>Classic coachwork construction in a cutting-edge interpretation. </b><br />
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The striking element of the side view is the characteristic “Touring” line. It embodies both the high art of coachwork building and classic aesthetics. Surrounded by tight, seamless surfaces, it traces a precise, vibrant movement from the front wheels through to the rear. This reflects the great craftsmanship and longstanding experience of Touring Superleggera in area of body construction: ever since it was founded the company has stood for fine, light sports car bodies. To this day, Touring Superleggera™ shapes large aluminium sheets by hand using the most performing frame structures. The hand-crafted style of construction gives the MINI Superleggera Vision an aesthetic form which would be virtually impossible to achieve by machine manufacture.<br />
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“MINI and Touring both believe that proportions are the key factor of beauty, and share the same values of essentiality and innovation” says Louis de Fabribeckers, Head of design of Touring Superleggera. “In this car all unnecessary equipment or decoration is sacrificed, as performance is gained through lightness and efficiency of the bodywork and interior. The Italian touch is in the proportions and the typical waistline.”<br />
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There are very few gaps in the body since it is constructed from large sheets of metal. The result is a closed look that conveys high-quality elegance. The specially developed exterior paint finish Como Blue, almost liquid in effect, stands for both classic and modern style. It particularly underlines the refined Italian touch of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision. The elaborate rims and the elegant exterior mirrors in long-hole look complete with a mirror base in polished aluminium add exclusive accentuations at the side. Echoing the front section, the discreet CFRP sills underscore the sporty character of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision.<br />
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Meanwhile the striking fin defines the look of the rear, adding a touch of extravagance. It gives the MINI SuperleggeraTM Vision a particular longitudinal dynamics while at the same time embodying the unconventional air of both MINI and Touring Superleggera. Like the “Touring” line at the side, it is modeled with enormous precision. The highlight of the flat, wide rear is the unusual lights: designed in the form of a Union Jack divided in two, they combine functionality and symbolism in a way never seen before. In this way they express the British roots of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision while at the same time emphasising the modern LED technology as already used in the new MINI. A chrome bar demarcates the rear lights at the centre of the rear, making this area a classic British jewellery icon. The CFRP diffuser rounds off the rear to the road in sporty style.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dVUGRoyYRs8/U4Xkp-5yJyI/AAAAAAAAMm8/C4-8JhAaoFo/s1600/P90151105-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>Echoing the exterior - the interior design.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The exterior and interior design of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision merge seamlessly. Only a surrounding shoulder line in polished aluminium visually separates the exterior and interior from each other. The border creates an encircling, sporty gesture that consistently perpetuates the clear elegance and generous surfaces of the exterior.<br />
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In its styling and in the look and feel of its materials, the interior design celebrates the tradition and the essence of classic coachwork construction. It reflects how the automobile was created: the essential features are quoted - the untreated aluminium sheeting and the tube-shaped structural elements - and they are made visible in the interior by means of a high-quality interpretation. This is most striking in the dashboard. The latter is created from a single aluminium sheet and has been left in the state the automobile body would look like without a paint finish. The generously sized unpainted surfaces and the clearly visible hand craftsmanship of the dashboard go together to reflect the skilled artistry of the coachbuilders. The doors and the sporty 3-spoke steering wheel likewise reveal the traditional method of construction. The structural elements in the doors form a Union Jack, discreetly indicating the British origins of the MINI Superleggera™Vision.<br />
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The Center Instrument in the middle of the instrument panel draws on MINI design styling and has been extended for the MINI Superleggera™ Vision to include a touch-sensitive control element and two circular instruments with metal surrounds on the right. In addition to the analog clock on the far right, the second framed instrument activates the camera which is integrated between the driver and front passenger seat. It has the function of capturing those particularly worthwhile moments on the road.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-5udlwI-J2_A/U4XknzR6BlI/AAAAAAAAMmw/3_xDHnQMmEo/s1600/P90151101-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>Classic and modern to equal degrees - colour and material design. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
The classic materials aluminium and leather in a virtually untreated state define the reduced aesthetics of the MINI Superleggera™ Vision in the interior. Below the shoulder covered in brown leather in the classical color Sabbia, the materials are kept to the essentials. The structural elements in the doors and centre console are finished in high-quality black chrome, exclusively set apart from the aluminium surfaces and the raw, matt textured paint finish in the footwell area. This deliberately contrasting mixture of structured surfaces and high-end materials gives the MINI Superleggera™ Vision an exceptional charm. The sporty bucket seats are reminiscent of bygone MINI motor racing achievements and are covered in high-quality black leather. True to the MINI Motto "Hide & Reveal", accentuations in Misty Magenta provide a touch of Italian flair in tongue-in-cheek MINI style in concealed spots such as the two hot air outlets under the instrument panel and inside the door openings in the structural elements of the doors.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-byfkXZ-VqWI/U4Xkna08cSI/AAAAAAAAMmo/c0EMwExghYQ/s1600/P90151099-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<b>Coachbuilding in 2014.</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
Since 1926, Touring Superleggera is forerunner of advanced automotive design and custom coachbuilding. The company is one of the rare firms offering the whole in-house productive cycle from the first sketch, all the way through surface engineering and structural analysis, style models and prototypes, to turn-key, low-volume production of special bodywork.<br />
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“We are delighted that MINI wanted to stimulate an independent initiative and particularly Italian design for the first time”, says Piero Mancardi, CEO of Touring Superleggera. He continues: “This project also shows MINIs attention to preserving and nurturing the skills of craftsmanship incorporated in modern coach building.”<br />
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The MINI Superleggera™ Vision epitomizes the potential of “Carrozzeria” in today’s automobile industry: blending creativity and flexibility with rigor and respect of high standards. The result is a car of classic beauty that is also state of the art.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-20114300955210838332014-04-24T20:31:00.000+01:002014-04-24T20:31:49.345+01:00MINI Strongest residuals of the pack<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI: STRONGEST RESIDUALS OF THE PACK</b></div>
<ul>
<li>MINI vehicles hold more of their value than any other brand, a new study by Glass’s has revealed</li>
<li>Industry leading average depreciation of just 16.4 per cent for MINI customers, potentially saving thousands of pounds for consumers, businesses and fleets</li>
<li>MINI options can provide significant residuals uplift</li>
</ul>
MINI has the strongest UK residual values of 34 car manufacturers, an independent study by Glass’s has found.<br />
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With an annual average depreciation of just 16.4 per cent, MINI customers benefit from the strongest residual values in the industry. Glass’s study, which was revealed by Auto Express, scrutinised cars at one, three, five and seven years old to obtain fair depreciation figures.<br />
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MINI’s industry leading depreciation figures means UK customers can experience depreciation up to 10 percentage points less on their vehicle per year compared with the worst performing manufacturers. This can amount to saving of thousands of pounds when selling the vehicle.<br />
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Andrew Jackson, Head of Analytics at Glass’s, comments: “Considering that MINI operates within a classically high-RV-performing segment, combined with the desirable nature of the brand, meant that even for vehicles aged seven years, the percentage of cost new that can be expected from a MINI was appreciably more than any other brand.”<br />
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<div style="text-align: left;">
As well as strong residual values offered by entry level MINI models, many of the brand’s options and customisation choices further improve residual values for customers come resale time. This translates into affordable leasing rates ensuring MINI customers can enjoy the options they want on their vehicle for less.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b></div>
</div>
Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-51477306006087246312014-04-22T23:54:00.001+01:002014-04-22T23:55:53.928+01:00The new MINI Paceman.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hECAWjUHw0/U1bu8t7G2vI/AAAAAAAAMWs/NRUNdWGIx6M/s1600/P90146777-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<br /></div>
<strong>The new MINI Paceman.</strong>
<br />
<ul>
<li>New version of the MINI Paceman debuts at Auto China Beijing 2014</li>
<li>All engines now EU6 compliant, CO2 reductions in all models</li>
<li>Fresh design details, sportier cabin with anthracite-coloured dials</li>
<li>MINI Cooper S Paceman is more powerful yet more efficient than ever</li>
<li>Enhanced driving performance, optimised aerodynamics</li>
<li>New paint finishes and light alloy wheels available</li>
</ul>
As the world's first ever Sports Activity Coupé in the premium compact segment, the MINI Paceman has always offered athletic design and a sporty driving experience. Now with the unveiling of the new version at the Auto China Beijing show, there is even more on offer to appeal to design-conscious customers.<br />
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The new MINI Paceman boasts fresh design details and a sportier interior finish, while at the same time offering an optimised balance between driving performance and fuel consumption.<br />
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The new MINI Cooper S Paceman is also more powerful yet more efficient than ever, with its engine developing an additional 190 hp. MINIMALISM technology contributes to reduced fuel consumption and emission figures in all other model variants, as well as enabling increased figures for acceleration, in-gear acceleration and top speed. All variants of the new MINI Paceman meet the EU6 exhaust emission standard.<br />
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The MINI John Cooper Works Paceman also joins the refreshed line up with an output of 218 hp and fitted with MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system as standard.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wyjNZOyi9gg/U1bu7OCyzFI/AAAAAAAAMWY/NhTovD4Grs0/s1600/P90146770-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Expressive design with fresh details.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The innovative MINI Paceman includes a distinctive and highly expressive body design which embodies the properties of hallmark MINI design.<br />
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The upright front section, with its large headlamps and hexagonal radiator grille contour, afford the Paceman a purposeful look, while the elongated silhouette reinforces its sportiness. Its distinctive character is also underscored by the rear lights which are horizontally arranged for the first time on a MINI.<br />
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In certain models the radiator grille of the MINI Paceman now features a specific contour and grid structure. The new MINI John Cooper Works Paceman can be identified by a horizontal radiator grill rib in red, with the John Cooper Works logo positioned on the honeycomb pattern. The MINI Cooper S Paceman also features a curved ‘S’ in red on the front radiator grille.<br />
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In addition to the coupé style doors, other striking features include the aggressively sloped roof which is available in a contrasting colour. The flowing roof line, falling off to the rear, and the tapering side window graphic create a stretched, wedge-like silhouette.<br />
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The new Piano Black Exterior trim affords a high-end look to selected surfaces. It is to the surrounds of the headlamps and rear lights, on the diagonal links between the A columns and the front wheel arches and on the optional roof rails and the cross-rib in the radiator grill on the MINI Cooper Paceman. Chrome Line Exterior is also available as a no cost option.<br />
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New colours for the MINI Paceman include Jungle Green metallic and Midnight Grey metallic. Black or white white contrasting roofs are available as a no cost option, while a contrasting Chilli Red roof is available exclusively for the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman. Sport and bonnet stripes are also available in various colours.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MivKi0whHqE/U1bu7HnBITI/AAAAAAAAMWU/tiIdw3IfIZw/s1600/P90146767-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>New light alloy wheels with reduced weight and LED fog lights as standard.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Light alloy wheels come as standard in all model variants of the MINI Paceman. Newly designed for the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper D Paceman , the 16-inch light alloy wheels in 5-Star ‘Air Spoke’ Design help increase the fuel efficiency of these models with their reduced weight and optimised aerodynamic properties.<br />
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The 17-inch light alloy wheels in the new 5-Star ‘Triangle Spoke’ Design for the MINI Cooper S and the MINI Cooper SD Paceman are also lighter than their predecessors. They are also available in a two-colour design. MINIMALISM versions of these wheels are also available featuring tyres with reduced rolling resistance for reduced fuel consumption and exhaust emission levels.<br />
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Meanwhile, the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman features 18-inch light alloy wheels in ‘Twin Spoke Black Burnished’ Design as standard.<br />
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LED fog lights including parking and daytime LED driving lights are now standard across all MINI Paceman models. They provide an intense, bright white light with a much higher level of energy efficiency than conventional lamps. The structure of their light sources in full LED technology helps make the front view of the new MINI Paceman distinctively expressive.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-SC6hmo-m6Tw/U1bu7t6UgBI/AAAAAAAAMWc/cODnbv7JV0Y/s1600/P90146775-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Optimised acoustic comfort, sporty flair and refined premium characteristics for the interior.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The MINI Paceman is designed as a 2+2, with two sports seats for driver and front passenger and two individual seats at the rear offering excellent shoulder and head room, lateral support and comfort. The exclusive ‘lounge’ ambience of the second row is likewise enhanced by the armrests in the side rear trim panels. The new MINI Paceman benefits from acoustic optimisation which has reduced road noise against the outgoing model.<br />
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Adding to the sporty flair inside the cockpit, speed and display dials are now anthracite-coloured in the style of the MINI John Cooper Works Paceman across all models, while the John Cooper Works model bears the logo in the central instrument. The standard trim of the new MINI Paceman likewise includes chrome touches around the ventilation controls, clearly reflecting the car's refined premium characteristics.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JaXehlPzGTc/U1bu9-z9WhI/AAAAAAAAMW0/PMHmESzmbuM/s1600/P90146782-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Fast and efficient thanks to enhanced MINIMALISM technology.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Numerous optimisations under the skin of the MINI Paceman contribute to a combination of increased driving fun with improvements in fuel economy and reductions in exhaust emissions. All petrol and diesel engines now meet EU6 exhaust emission standards. In addition, the high degree of efficiency of the modern four-cylinder power units and MINIMALISM technology ensure that the balance between driving performance and fuel consumption has been fine tuned in all engine variants. Measures applied to boost efficiency include optimised air ducting in the area of the underbody, wheel bearings with a lower friction coefficient and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.<br />
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Increased power for the new MINI Cooper S Paceman further consolidates its leading position in the segment in terms of driving fun. Its four-cylinder spark ignition engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control sees power increase from 184 hp to 190 hp.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cfiQNZD8K-k/U1bu-ksQybI/AAAAAAAAMW8/_2O2RsVwcwg/s1600/P90146785-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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Figures* for the full MINI Paceman range are as follows:<br />
<br />
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td width="107"><strong>Model</strong></td>
<td width="106"><strong>Power</strong></td>
<td width="91"><strong>0-62 mph</strong></td>
<td width="123"><strong>Fuel Consumption</strong></td>
<td width="100"><strong>CO2</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">Cooper</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">122 hp</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">10.4 (-0.1)</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">47.9 mpg</td>
<td valign="top" width="100">137 g/km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">Cooper D</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">111 hp</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">10.9</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">67.3 mpg</td>
<td valign="top" width="100">111 g/km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">Cooper S</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">190 hp</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">7.5 (-0.1)</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">47.1 mpg</td>
<td valign="top" width="100">139 g/km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">Cooper SD</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">143 hp</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">9.2 sec (-0.1 sec)</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">62.8 mpg</td>
<td valign="top" width="100">119 g/km</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="107">John Cooper Works</td>
<td valign="top" width="106">218 hp</td>
<td valign="top" width="91">6.9 sec (- 0.1 sec)</td>
<td valign="top" width="123">39.8 mpg</td>
<td valign="top" width="100">165 g/km</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong><br /></strong>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZjBCV3uq--U/U1bu_5hTRcI/AAAAAAAAMXE/mQgybVRkvP8/s1600/P90146786-highRes.jpg" style="font-weight: normal;" /></strong></div>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system available across range.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The MINI Paceman is the second model in the range to offer MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel drive system. MINI ALL4 distributes drive power at continuously variable levels between the front and rear axle by means of an electromagnetic centre differential and is available for all model variants.<br />
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All MINI Paceman models can be combined with a six-speed automatic transmission instead of the standard six-speed manual. The automatic transmission offers the possibility of manual gear selection with Steptronic – including shift paddles.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-4kixJg11ZxY/U1bvAX4UCMI/AAAAAAAAMXI/UKvf00qbGAI/s1600/P90146788-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Fun, safety, comfort and networking at the highest level.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The suspension technology of the MINI Paceman is of exceptionally high quality for the compact segment and in conjunction with its powerful engines contribute to the car's impressive agility. Unmistakable go-kart feeling is guaranteed by the combination of McPherson spring struts and forged wishbones on the front axle, a multilink rear axle and electromechanical power steering.<br />
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The integrated MINI safety concept comprises a crash-optimised body structure and a full range of features in the areas of active and passive safety. This puts occupant safety on the same level as the MINI Countryman, which was awarded the top five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating. The new MINI Paceman is fitted as standard with daytime driving light as well as tyre pressure control on each individual tyre. Constant measurement of pressure means that the driver is given an early warning of potential loss in each tyre.<br />
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Dynamic Stability Control (DSC) also forms part of the standard equipment of the MINI Paceman. DSC including Electronic Differential Lock Control (ELDC) is fitted as standard in conjunction with the ALL4 all-wheel-drive system in the MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper SD and John Cooper Works Paceman.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7Lo_bsiJfRU/U1bvBoMm6II/AAAAAAAAMXU/eEsrPMcPEiI/s1600/P90146791-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Generous standard equipment and wide range of options.</strong><br />
<strong><br />
</strong>An extensive range of optional equipment is available on new MINI Paceman. There are numerous upholstery types, interior colours, interior trims and Colour Lines to choose from. Bi-Xenon headlamps with adaptive turning, automatic air conditioning, comfort access, the electrically operated glass sunroof, a removable tow bar on some models with a trailer load of up to 1,200 kilograms, the MINI Navigation System, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and model-specific John Cooper Works accessories are all also available from the options list. Standard features include air conditioning, MINI Centre Rail between the front seats and a high-end radio system comprising CD player with MP3 capability, AUX-in socket, DAB radio, Bluetooth, five speakers and rear Park Distance Control.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xavQqDrwrv8/U1bvCP17geI/AAAAAAAAMXY/gJZbc--sVCo/s1600/P90146797-highRes.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xavQqDrwrv8/U1bvCP17geI/AAAAAAAAMXY/gJZbc--sVCo/s1600/P90146797-highRes.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<strong>MINI Connected offers extensive smartphone integration.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
With MINI Connected, the British manufacturer emphasises its leading role in the intelligent networking of driver, car and the outside world based on cutting-edge interface technology. The integration of entertainment and online functions offered by modern smartphones helps make driving a MINI even more convenient and entertaining. It enables the use of vehicle-specific functions such as Mission Control, Dynamic Music, Driving Excitement and MINIMALISM Analyser as well as online-based services.<br />
<br />
Integration of third party apps into the car is available with MINI Connected, with additional functionality being added on an ongoing basis. Current functions include web radio, the use of social networks such as Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse, RSS news feed reception and entertainment programs such as AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn. Operation is intuitive and typically MINI in style via the on-board computer in the central instrument, the MINI Joy Stick in the centre console, the multifunction buttons of the steering wheel and also voice control.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-59105860161520578682014-04-16T17:55:00.001+01:002014-04-16T17:55:11.264+01:00The new MINI Countryman.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V5Fu_myAhG0/U06zcOMsXHI/AAAAAAAAMQk/XdOqkx8u0Zw/s1600/P90146717-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>The new MINI Countryman.</b><br />
<ul>
<li>New version of the MINI Countryman debuts at New York Auto Show</li>
<li>All engines now EU6 compliant, CO2 reductions across range</li>
<li>Cooper S output increased to 190 hp</li>
<li>Rugged new exterior styling and optimised acoustic comfort</li>
<li>Enhanced driving performance, optimised aerodynamics and fuel consumption</li>
<li>New colours available, including Jungle Green, Midnight Grey and Starlight Blue</li>
</ul>
A new version of the MINI Countryman – the first MINI to feature four doors, five seats and optional all-wheel-drive – will debut at the New York International Auto Show, further boosting the brand's advance into the premium compact segment.<br />
<br />
Updated exterior design, optimised fuel consumption and emission figures – as well as innovative equipment enhancements – contribute to the more mature character and increased appeal of the new MINI Countryman.<br />
<br />
With striking body design accents, refined premium characteristics in the interior and enhanced efficiency, the new MINI Countryman builds upon the strengths of the previous model. An important pillar of growth for MINI with 350,000 units already sold worldwide, this model has everything it takes to attract new customers into the MINI brand.<br />
<br />
Increases in power output, improved aerodynamic properties and further efficiency enhancements (thanks to MINIMALISM technology), have resulted in better acceleration and top speed in some models.<br />
<br />
All model variants now have lower fuel consumption and emission figures, as well as meeting EU6 emission regulations. MINI’s ALL4 all-wheel-drive system continues to be available on MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper SD Countryman. The MINI ALL4 system comes as standard with the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UljxfUxIGYg/U06zexgSPAI/AAAAAAAAMRI/TjwJmDEruq0/s1600/P90146731-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Exterior – sophisticated and rugged.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The distinctive appearance of the MINI Countryman derives from its dimensions, four doors, large tailgate and unique roof shape combined with the individual interpretation of MINI’s hallmark proportions and design.<br />
<br />
With the new MINI Countryman, both model-specific and hallmark brand elements are given additional emphasis. The upright front section conveys a powerful presence with a newly designed hexagonal radiator grill. A horizontal radiator grille rib finished in chrome on the new MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper SD Countryman – along with a curved "S" in red – now give the front an even sportier edge. The front of the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman features a red radiator grille rib supplemented with the John Cooper Works logo.<br />
<br />
In all other model variants the radiator grille is now subdivided by two ribs. In MINI One and MINI One D Countryman models these are finished in high-gloss black, while in the MINI Cooper and the MINI Cooper D Countryman sport a matt silver version.<br />
<br />
A number of new features enhance the robust and versatile character of the new MINI Countryman. In conjunction with the MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system, underride guard elements for the front and rear apron (as well as for the side sills) are now included as standard. These highlight the ground clearance of the Countryman, indicating its potential for driving away from tarmac roads.<br />
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The range of exterior paint finishes available has also been expanded with the addition of Jungle Green metallic and Midnight Grey metallic, and Starlight Blue metallic paint is now available on the MINI Countryman for the first time.<br />
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A contrasting paint finish for the roof and wing mirror caps in black or white is available as a no-cost option (with the exception of the MINI One and MINI One D Countryman). A contrasting red paint finish is offered free of charge for the new MINI John Cooper Works Countryman. There are also Sport Stripes and bonnet stripes in a variety of colours to choose from.<br />
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Available on a MINI for the first time is the new Piano Black Exterior trim. In addition to the surrounds of the headlamps and rear lights finished in chrome as standard, a high-end dark shading is applied to the diagonal links between the A columns and front wheel arches, the roof rails and the cross-ribs in the radiator grille of the MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper D Countryman. Chrome line exterior is available a no cost option.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0r4RRAOmCAk/U06zdGLat5I/AAAAAAAAMQw/av6-lQ2HhJA/s1600/P90146729-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>New reduced weight alloy wheels, LED fog lights.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper D Countryman now come with 16-inch light alloy wheels in 5-Star ‘Air Spoke’ Design as standard. Likewise, the 17-inch light alloy wheels in the new 5-Star ‘Triangle Spoke’ Design for the MINI Cooper S and MINI Cooper SD Countryman also save weight over their predecessors. They are also optionally available in a two-colour design. Both wheel versions are also available in an optional MINIMALISM version, including tyres with reduced rolling resistance for further reductions in fuel consumption and exhaust emissions.<br />
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Another new addition to the MINI Countryman are LED fog lights with LED daytime driving lights. This distinctive new feature is fitted as standard to MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper D, MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper SD and MINI John Cooper Works Countryman.<br />
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The new LED fog lights provide an intense, bright white light with a much higher level of energy efficiency than conventional lamps. The structure of their light sources in full LED also helps make the front view of the new MINI Countryman striking and instantly recognisable. The daytime driving light takes the form of a luminous ring fed by 15 LED units. When the parking lights are switched on, only five LED units are activated in the upper third of the ring.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OTJ359S1sPU/U06zc-HGAmI/AAAAAAAAMQ8/DdgpyRZ8ivY/s1600/P90146727-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Interior and acoustic refinement.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The interior of the new MINI Countryman features characteristic brand designs combined with a highly versatile interior space. The premium compact model offers five seats as standard along with the MINI Centre Rail attachment system fitted between the driver and front passenger seat. Acoustic refinement has also been enhanced in the new MINI Countryman.<br />
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The displays and controls have been redesigned so as to enhance the car's sporty flair and premium character. All model variants of the new MINI Countryman now have anthracite-coloured dials for the tachometer and speedometer the style of the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, whose central instrument now also bears the John Cooper Works logo. The standard trim of the new MINI Countryman also includes chrome finishes for the ventilation controls.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-P5Q09uTJksA/U06zc_0R2gI/AAAAAAAAMQs/ZX_R5VJ1y6c/s1600/P90146718-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Extended MINIMALISM technology for increased driving fun and reduced fuel consumption figures.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The petrol and diesel engines available for the new MINI Countryman all meet the EU6 exhaust emissions regulations. The high efficiency of the modern four-cylinder power units and the extended use of MINIMALISM technology also ensure an even more favourable balance between driving fun and fuel consumption.<br />
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Detailed measures promoting efficiency include optimised air ducting in the area of the underbody, wheel bearings with a lower friction coefficient and tyres with reduced rolling resistance.<br />
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The four-cylinder spark ignition engine used in the MINI Cooper S Countryman, with twin-scroll turbocharger, direct injection and variable valve control, also sees an increase in output to 190 hp. This results in a reduction in the 0-62mph time of 0.1 sec to 7.5 secs, while the in-gear sprint from 50 to 75 mph in fifth gear now takes just 8.4 secs – down 0.2 secs.<br />
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Fuel consumption in the new MINI Cooper S Countryman on the EU test cycle has improved to 47.1 mpg, while CO2 emissions drop by three per cent to 139 grams per kilometre.<br />
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Figures* for the full MINI Countryman range are as follows:<br />
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<table><tbody>
<tr><td width="107"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Model</span></strong></td><td width="106"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Power</span></strong></td><td width="91"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">0-62 mph</span></strong></td><td width="123"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">Fuel Consumption</span></strong></td><td width="100"><strong><span style="font-size: x-small;">CO2</span></strong></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">One</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">89 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11.9</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">49.6 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">134 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">One D</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">90 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">12.9</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">67.3 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">111 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooper</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">122 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">10.4 (-0.1)</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">47.9 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">137 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooper D</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">111 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">10.9</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">67.3 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">111 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooper S</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">190 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">7.5 (-0.1)</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">47.1 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">139 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Cooper SD</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">143 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">9.2 sec (-0.1 sec)</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">62.8 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">119 g/km</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="107"><span style="font-size: x-small;">John Cooper Works</span></td><td valign="top" width="106"><span style="font-size: x-small;">218 hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="91"><span style="font-size: x-small;">6.9 sec (- 0.1 sec)</span></td><td valign="top" width="123"><span style="font-size: x-small;">39.8 mpg</span></td><td valign="top" width="100"><span style="font-size: x-small;">165 g/km</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qHtILjlRR0/U06zeWaGwQI/AAAAAAAAMRA/LnCKUs2_YEY/s1600/P90146736-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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The MINI ALL4 all-wheel-drive system is available as an option on MINI Cooper, MINI Cooper S, MINI Cooper D and MINI Cooper SD Countryman models. The system is based on an electromagnetic centre differential and distributes drive force at continuously variable levels between the front and rear axle. The MINI ALL4 electronic management system integrated directly into the DSC unit enables power transmission to be altered as required, responding within milliseconds.<br />
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All engines are combined with a six-speed manual transmission as standard. An optional six-gear automatic transmission is available for all model variants, with the exception of the MINI One D Countryman which includes shift paddles as standard on MINI Cooper S, Cooper SD and John Cooper Works Countryman. Shift paddles for manual selection of gears is available as an option on MINI One, MINI Cooper and MINI Cooper D Countryman. A Sport Button is also available as standard on MINI Cooper S, Cooper SD and John Cooper Works Countryman offering more direct steering and accelerator response and is available as an option on other models.<br />
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In conjunction with the automatic transmission, pressing the Sport Button also results in changes to the shift points. In the new MINI Cooper S Countryman this also triggers a particularly striking, sporty engine sound.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-rMj4_aYoC6I/U06zfI2Ya6I/AAAAAAAAMRc/QdR_QOHgA1Q/s1600/P90146743-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Five-star safety, tyre pressure control and daytime driving light now standard.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
The MINI Countryman has extensive standard safety features resulting in a top score of five stars on the Euro NCAP crash test. MINI Countryman now also includes daytime driving light and tyre pressure control as standard. Constant measurement of pressure on each individual tyre means that the driver is given an early warning of potential loss in each tyre.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EODFvvjcIjI/U06zfaG_hTI/AAAAAAAAMRQ/8UoTFBdw5KY/s1600/P90146746-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>High-quality standard and optional equipment.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Standard equipment on the new MINI Countryman includes air conditioning, MINI Centre Rail between the front seats and a high-end radio system comprising CD player with MP3 capability, AUX-in socket, DAB radio, Bluetooth, five speakers and rear Park Distance Control.<br />
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As customers would expect from MINI, there are also a variety of high quality additional options available. These include Bi-Xenon headlamps and adaptive turning light, comfort access, panoramic glass roof, automatic air conditioning, removable tow bar on some models capable of towing loads of up to 1,200kg, MINI Navigation System, multifunction steering wheel with cruise control, Harman Kardon hi-fi speaker system and model-specific John Cooper Works accessories.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zrepv64IenY/U06zgyOYR4I/AAAAAAAAMRo/xALmXWY9iz0/s1600/P90146747-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>MINI Connected.</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
As ever, MINI Connected is also available in conjunction with the MINI Visual Boost Radio or as part of the Media Pack. It offers extensive smartphone integration inside the car, allowing the use of internet-based services including Facebook, Twitter, foursquare and Glympse. RSS news feeds, internet radio and music streaming services including AUPEO!, Stitcher, Deezer, Audible, Napster/Rhapsody and TuneIn can also be operated from within the car through the MINI Connected interface.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-37126252477264694062014-03-17T13:39:00.000+00:002014-03-17T13:42:41.031+00:00The New MINI Hatch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>ALL NEW, ALL MINI: THE NEW MINI HATCH</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Contemporary evolution of classic MINI design, with improved features and higher quality</li>
<li>Debut of new ground-breaking three-cylinder engines</li>
<li>State-of-the-art connectivity and premium technology, including new driver assistance equipment</li>
<li>New interactive central display using LEDs</li>
<li>Outstanding MINI handling makes it even more fun to drive</li>
<li>Built in Oxford, available at MINI dealers nationwide 15 March 2014</li>
<li>MINI One Hatch priced from £13,750 OTR</li>
</ul>
Even though the new MINI Hatch is instantly recognisable – something which comes from having such a globally identifiable design – the car is completely new from the ground up. Every component has been back to the drawing board in an effort to optimise its function, performance and style.<br />
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The result is ‘The New Original’, a MINI which is distinctly familiar but enhanced in every single way. It features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and – of course – personalisation. Inside, the new MINI Hatch is quieter than the outgoing model, with improvements to acoustic refinement inside the cabin.<br />
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The new MINI Hatch is more spacious than before, safer, finished to an even higher standard and provides the driver with a more dynamic and performance-oriented experience behind the wheel.<br />
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Inside the cabin, new technology ensures that the new MINI is the most connected car in its segment. A new central LED display, the first of its kind, provides the driver with visual feedback whilst operating the car and creates a premium ambience. It reflects a maturity and confidence in the brand’s design and engineering, a car which pays tribute to its unique British heritage yet stands ready to lead MINI into the second half of this decade and beyond.<br />
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<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0JNU3L7cxgc/Uyb3pr-mAfI/AAAAAAAAMHU/QhKX-vh47UI/s1600/P90144673-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>New MINI in detail</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong><strong>Exterior: unmistakable design, contemporary style</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long (MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm), 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. This makes it 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 28mm, while the track width has been enlarged at the front by 42mm and at the rear by 34mm.<br />
Behind the changes, the new car has classic MINI proportions and an instantly familiar design that’s packed with character. Traditional cues such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging have all been subtly reinterpreted.<br />
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In profile, the tapering line of the glasshouse creates a dynamic wedge shape. Below, a visual link between the front and rear wheel arches comes via a striking lower sill line and upper character line, which feature downward curves at both ends.<br />
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The new MINI is the first car in its segment to offer the option of LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring, the lower section of which reaches down to the white turn indicators. The rear light clusters also feature an all-LED design.<br />
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Five new exterior colours have been added to MINI’s already extensive palette, while the roof and exterior mirror caps can be finished in a contrasting colour, black or white, as a no-cost option. Roof rails are available for the new MINI for the first time. Other ways of adding a touch of individual style include black or white bonnet stripes.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-eM3jLf_6PMk/Uyb3oAYobrI/AAAAAAAAMG4/ErtQ6csEeJE/s1600/P90144662-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Interior: hallmark MINI style, new display and operating concept</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The new MINI’s exterior dimensions mean greater room for up to four occupants and their luggage, including enhanced shoulder space and larger footwells. The front seats have been given a wider adjustment range, and the base has been lengthened by 23mm for additional comfort and support. A choice of fabric or leather finishes, or a combination of both, is available. It’s also easier than ever for rear seat passengers to gain access to the back.<br />
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The rear bench seat back can be split 60:40. For even greater practicality, the optional storage package includes a luggage compartment floor which can be locked into place at various points and the rear seat backrest features tilt-angle adjustment. Boot volume has been increased by more than 30 per cent to 211 litres. Numerous cup holders and storage facilities make life easier for occupants.<br />
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With an instantly recognisable design, state-of-the-art functionality and premium colour/material combinations, there’s no mistaking the dashboard of the new MINI Hatch. The horizontal structure of the cockpit, linked to circular and elliptical details, remains, but has evolved to take on a more sophisticated form.<br />
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At the heart of the design changes is a new display and operating concept, illustrated by the instrument cluster on the steering column. Speed, revs and fuel level are displayed on vertically arranged circular dials. The speedometer scale includes a colour panel for messages and vehicle status displays.<br />
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The iconic central instrument now has extended functionality. Depending on the optional equipment chosen, it can serve as a four-line TFT display as standard or optional colour screen up to 8.8-inches showing vehicle functions, infotainment, navigation and MINI Connected services. Selection of these functions is performed via a choice of two new controllers, the MINI Controller or MINI Touch Controller, fitted in the centre console which come in conjunction with MINI Visual Boost Radio or the MINI Navigation System.<br />
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Groundbreaking LED lighting around the new MINI Hatch’s central instrument provides visual feedback to the current situation on the road and to specific operational steps, according to the driver’s preference. 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. A change in the car’s driving mode confirmed by LED units which light up in green, orange or red. Route guidance information provided by the MINI Navigation System is also visually supported by the illuminated ring: the closer the car gets to the turn-off point, the smaller the lit-up area around the edge of the central instrument.<br />
Keyless-go is now standard across the MINI Hatch range. The start/stop toggle switch located in the middle of the centre console features a heartbeat illumination which pulses before the engine is started. A number of switches have been relocated for improved usability, including those for the electric windows, which are now integrated into the door trim.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Bs5b-Apja0k/Uyb3qWP4CmI/AAAAAAAAMHY/Yx9WokF89nc/s1600/P90144678-highRes.jpg" /></div>
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<strong>Powertrains: three all-new engines, three all-new gearboxes</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The new MINI Hatch features a range of three entirely new engines, each featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology to increase driving fun and improve environmental efficiency. The trio all offer improved performance figures, with maximum power across all three variants produced lower down the rev range, while fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as 27 per cent when compared to their predecessor models. All meet the stringent EU6 exhaust emissions criteria.<br />
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The new MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 136hp. The new MINI Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which develops 192hp. The new MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 116hp. For fuel efficiency this latter model is the undoubted star performer, with average combined economy of 80.7mpg using the EU test cycle.<br />
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<table><tbody>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Engine</strong> </span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI One Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI One D Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper D Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper S Hatch</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Type/no. of cylinders/valves</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">in-line / 3 / 4</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">in-line / 3 / 4</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">in-line / 3 / 4</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">in-line / 3 / 4</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">in-line / 4 / 4</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Capacity</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">cc</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1198</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1496</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1499</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1496</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1998</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Bore/stroke</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">mm</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">78.0 / 83.6</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">78 / 83.</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">82.0 / 94.6</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">84.0 / 90.0</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">82.0 / 94.6</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Compression</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">:1</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">16.5</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11.0</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">16.5</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">11.0</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Output</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">kW/hp</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">75 / 102</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">70 / 95</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">100 / 136</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">85 / 116</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">141 / 192</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">at engine speed</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">rpm</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4250 - 6000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4500 – 6000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">4700 – 6000</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Torque (with overboost)</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Nm</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">180</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">220</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">220)</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">270</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">280</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">at engine speed</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">rpm</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1400-4000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1750 - 2250</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1250 – 4000</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1750</span></td><td valign="top" width="14%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">1250 – 4750</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A six-speed manual transmission comes as standard featuring rev matching on downward shifts. A six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option on each engine. The automatic transmission sees efficiency improvements against the outgoing model, making a significant contribution towards reducing CO2 levels. For example, the outgoing MINI Cooper D Automatic Hatch produces 135g/km CO2 with the new MINI Cooper D Hatch producing 98g/km CO2, a reduction of 38% against the outgoing model.<br />
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Both transmission systems are newly developed. The auto features an engine start/stop function for the first time, 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.<br />
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Now on the options list is a third transmission, a six-speed sports automatic transmission which enables even shorter shift times, features rev matching on downward shifts and can be operated in manual mode using shift paddles behind the steering wheel.<br />
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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 on manual cars and optimised preheating process on the diesel. Brake energy recuperation and need-oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump and other ancillary units feature on all models.<br />
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<strong>Optimised suspension: less weight, even more fun to drive</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The suspension in the new MINI has been extensively revised. A new single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear intensify the MINI Hatch’s unique handling properties.<br />
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In order to reduce weight and increase component rigidity, the new front axle is fitted with aluminium swivel bearings as well as axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel. This supports the agile turn-in response and precise steering of the new MINI. At the rear, the share of high-strength steel used in the axle has been increased.<br />
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All improvements are aimed at intensifying the MINI’s handling responses, better known as that famous ‘go-kart’ feeling. Engineers have worked hard on the suspension to improve the acoustic refinement in the MINI’s cabin and eliminate vibrations from the road surface after chassis testing on UK roads.<br />
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Also new to the car is Variable Damper Control. Available as an option, it presents drivers with the choice of two distinct set-ups, a more comfort-oriented response or a more sporty and firm one.<br />
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The new MINI Cooper Hatch and MINI Cooper D Hatch ride on 15-inch forged light alloy wheels, which have low weight and excellent aerodynamics. The MINI Cooper S Hatch is fitted with 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard. Rims up to 18 inches in diameter are available as optional extras.<br />
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Highly resilient bearing structures, deformation zones and an extremely stable passenger cell are all part of the new MINI’s design. Together these provide an excellent basis for keeping impact energy away from passengers and ensuring maximum occupant protection. The standard safety fittings include front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, automatic passenger airbag deactivation and front and rear ISOFIX. The aim is to achieve maximum scores on all the relevant crash tests worldwide.<br />
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<strong>High-end features for comfort, functionality and individual style</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The increased standard specification on the new MINI includes 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. 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, visibility package including windscreen heating, rain sensor 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.<strong><br /></strong><br />
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<strong>MINI Connected: more connected than ever</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL is also available in conjunction with the MINI Visual Boost Radio and the MINI Navigation System. 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.<br />
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MINI Connected XL includes the Journey Mate function for networked navigation, with Real Time Traffic Information.<br />
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In future, both the MINI Connected app and MINI Connected-ready apps supplied by third-party providers will be available not just for the Apple iPhone but also for smartphones using the Android operating system.<br />
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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.<br />
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Another innovative feature is the Intelligent Emergency Calling (E-call). This new 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.<br />
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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.<br />
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<strong>Driver assistance systems: new MINI, new technology</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The new MINI Hatch signals the introduction of a range of technologies which are making their brand debut. 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. Also new is the 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 new MINI for the first time.<br />
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In addition to ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, the driving stability control system (DSC) in the new MINI 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.<br />
The new MINI Cooper S features a performance control system, which counteracts any tendency to understeer prior to reaching the threshold level, supporting an agile yet neutral driving response in corners.<br />
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<strong>MINI Driving Modes: a basis for fuel-efficient motoring</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>Another new innovation and brand debut is MINI Driving Modes, an optional extra on the new MINI Hatch. 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. The latter includes decoupling of the drivetrain – better known as ‘coasting’ – when the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. MINI Driving Modes also influences the ambient lighting, shift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the Variable Damper Control if the option is selected.<br />
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<strong>Personalisation: more of what people love</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>MINI pioneered the concept of automotive personalisation and that spirit of individuality continues with the new Hatch. The list of interior and exterior customisable components, and the options for them, is extensive. Most popular are expected to be a John Cooper Works rear spoiler, various decorative trims for roof, exterior mirrors, bonnet, seat upholstery, interior surfaces and new Colour Lines.<br />
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<strong>Pricing</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The new MINI Cooper Hatch starts at £15,300 OTR. This represents only a 2.61 per cent increase compared against the outgoing model and customers benefit from a host of additional equipment including adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth all as standard. The MINI Cooper D Hatch’s OTR price of £16,450 represents only a 1.64 per cent increase verses the outgoing model. Completing the range is the MINI Cooper S Hatch starting from £18,650.<br />
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<table><tbody>
<tr><td valign="top" width="21%"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><strong>Pricing</strong> </span></td><td valign="top" width="6%"></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI One Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI One D Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="15%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper D Hatch</span></td><td valign="top" width="15%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">MINI Cooper S Hatch</span></td></tr>
<tr><td valign="top" width="21%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">OTR cost</span></td><td valign="top" width="6%"></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£13,750</span></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£14,890</span></td><td valign="top" width="13%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£15,300</span></td><td valign="top" width="15%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£16,450</span></td><td valign="top" width="15%"><span style="font-size: x-small;">£18,650</span></td></tr>
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Customers choosing to finance the purchase of their new MINI can do so with a bespoke finance deal from MINI Financial Services. A MINI Cooper Hatch with Pepper Pack and TLC Service Pack is available from as little as £207 a month with a £3,033.07 deposit over a 48 month term1.<br />
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<strong>MINI TLC: Topping up on care</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>With MINI TLC, customers benefit from comprehensive servicing cover for 5 years or 50,000 miles, whichever is reached first, for only £299. This includes MINI MOT Protect, which means in the unlikely event their MINI should fail its first, second or third MOT, MINI will cover the cost of repair or replacement on an array of selected parts.<br />
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<strong>New MINI Hatch: Built in Oxford</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>The new MINI Hatch is built in Britain at Plant Oxford, a state-of-the-art facility which celebrated 100 years of car production in Oxford during 2013, which remains at the heart of the MINI manufacturing network. Plant Oxford received the lion’s share of a £750 million investment in the MINI Production Triangle which also includes Plant Swindon and Plant Hams Hall. Besides a new state-of-the-art bodyshop, Plant Oxford also benefitted from upgrades to its quality validation processes, to its paintshop and from a series of initiatives reducing the operation’s carbon footprint and improving its waste management processes.<br />
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The New Hatch launched at MINI dealers across the UK on Saturday 15th March 2014.<br />
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<b>Find out more about the next generation MINI Hatch, plus also register for updates and information on launch events at Specialist Cars MINI by <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/new-mini-hatch.htm">CLICKING HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-49058085025732067562014-02-27T09:21:00.001+00:002014-02-27T09:42:59.302+00:00MINI Clubman Concept<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b>MINI Clubman Concept – a new class in terms of space, function and supreme elegance. World premiere at the 2014 Geneva Motor Show.</b><br />
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At the 2014 Geneva Motor Show MINI presents the MINI Clubman Concept, showcasing a new brand philosophy for a higher class of automobile. 26 centimeters longer and just under 17 centimeters wider than the current MINI Clubman, the Concept comes over as sophisticated, cool and elegant. The iconic design is supplemented by high-quality details, plenty of space for functional features and selected materials. Refinement of the hallmark MINI styling ensures instant recognition, both on the exterior and the interior. The extensive colour and material concept redefines contemporary elegance and high-end quality in this segment.<br />
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<li>Four doors and five seats offer plenty of utility space, thereby supporting an active lifestyle.</li>
<li>Classic MINI design features such as the hexagonal radiator grille, Side Scuttles, the Black Band, short overhangs and elliptical front and rear headlights ensure high recognition value from every angle.</li>
<li>Length: 4223 mm, width: 1844 mm (not incl. mirror), height: 1450 mm.</li>
<li>Integrated aerodynamics as an essential part of the exterior design.</li>
<li>The interior design interprets typical MINI shapes and colours, presenting an effortless and elegant combination of high-end quality and functionality.</li>
<li>An elaborate colour and material concept in the interior with exclusive materials and unexpected details.</li>
<li>The Center Instrument with newly conceived user interface creates an event-controlled interaction space with touch operation.</li>
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<b>A new class for the future of MINI.</b><br />
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"The MINI Clubman Concept shows how the MINI Clubman could be taken a step further: more interior space, a greater sense of high-end quality and yet still clever, bold and distinctive. In short: more car, more MINI," says Adrian van Hooydonk, Head of BMW Group Design, explaining the approach to this model. For over 50 years now, MINI has stood for maximum use of minimum space. 26 centimetres longer and just under 17 centimetres wider than the current MINI Clubman, the MINI Clubman Concept applies this aspiration to a new class of automobile. As Head of MINI Design Anders Warming explains: "With the MINI Clubman Concept we are presenting a car with space, flair and style in a segment where the focus is mainly on function and utility. With clever ideas, emotional design and a cool blend of colours and materials, it offers an overall experience which remains unique in this segment to date."<br />
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<b>Supreme, dynamic, elegant – the exterior design.</b><br />
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Even with larger exterior dimensions, the MINI Clubman Concept is instantly recognisable as a typical MINI. With the characteristic agility of the MINI proportions, the prolonged roof line clearly reflects the car's extensive utility space. It also gives the silhouette a distinctive elegance, underscored by generous surfaces. The powerful, warm Berry Red colour shows surfaces and shapes to optimum effect. The roof in the colour "Blade" - a metallic grey - creates an elegant contrast with the warm red of the corpus.<br />
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Classic MINI design icons such as the hexagonal radiator grille, Side Scuttles, Black Band and the typical lights are designed in precise, high-end style. The modern, reduced interpretation of these features gives the MINI Clubman Concept a more sophisticated, charismatic look. The themes of aerodynamics and air ducting are clearly highlighted in the exterior design. All openings and outlets are integrated in the geometry and elegantly shaped. Clearly defined wheel arches and the roof spoiler accentuate the car's dynamic appearance, underscoring the overall impression of sporty flair.<br />
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<b>Typical MINI in every detail - the front section.</b><br />
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Seen from the front, the circular headlamps, hexagonal radiator grille and roof with add-on look clearly identify the MINI Clubman Concept as belonging to the MINI family. The radiator grille is strikingly elaborated and incorporates the bumper in the front section. The bumper is finished in Black Chrome, adding a touch of exclusive style to this functional element. Elaborate details such as the three-dimensional structure of the chrome ribs inside the front grille further enhance the front section. The high quality standards of the MINI Clubman Concept even extend to the surface modelling. Fine edges add precision and presence to the generous surfaces.<br />
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In the lower area of the front-end design there is a continuous air inlet which highlights the breadth of the MINI Clubman Concept, thereby emphasising its solid standing on the road. Meanwhile a finely wrought chrome rib appears to hover inside the air inlet, giving this sporty detail a touch of exclusive appeal. In the outer section of the front apron there are so-called AirCurtains - an aerodynamic feature that gives the wheel arches an aerodynamically optimised closure. These dynamically surround the lower part of the front section like two brackets.<br />
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<b>Plenty of space for characteristic dynamism - the side.</b><br />
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Reduced to the essentials, the side view instantly conveys the qualities of the MINI Clubman Concept: a long wheelbase, flatly positioned windows and short overhangs reflect characteristic MINI agility. At the same time, the long roof line and the typical two-box design clearly emphasise the car's high level of functionality and its generous utility space. Meanwhile the four doors reflect the extended exterior dimensions and increased functionality. Generous surface expanses elongate the side, while at the same time subtle surface modelling and precise lines make the silhouette appear flat and dynamic. Three chrome elements give the side section a sense of exclusivity with modern understatement. At the front, the Side Scuttle incorporates the filigree mirror base and turn indicator in an elongated element whose shape is echoed by the two electrical door openers. Integrated flush with the surface, these draw a line back to the rear which is taken up by the rear door handles. Above this, the surrounding shoulder line in chrome offsets the corpus of the car from the greenhouse and roof in hallmark MINI style. This so-called Waistline Finisher embraces the entire passenger cell, reinforcing the exterior graphics so typical of the brand. The 19" light alloy rims in bicolour Black Chrome and Chrome finish are the highlight of the side view. A clear cup formation gives the elaborate multi-spoke design a highly dynamic touch. In between, glossy accents are added by non-cupped polished surfaces.<br />
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<b>Aerodynamic details for optimum air ducting.</b><br />
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The MINI Clubman Concept is the first MINI to be fitted with a so-called AirBreather at the side. The AirBreather echoes the design theme of the AirCurtains in the front apron, cutting dynamically into the surrounding Black Band. The elaborate double roof spoiler at the rear is shown to best advantage from the top view. The third brake light is integrated in between the two wings of the roof spoilers in Formula 1 style. There are also two longitudinal sections of plexiglass which run across the entire length of the roof like rally stripes. In conjunction with the roof spoiler, this means that the distinctive dynamic air typical of MINI is applied to the MINI Clubman Concept from a bird's-eye perspective, too.<br />
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<b>Typical MINI Clubman: split doors for increased loading convenience - the rear.</b><br />
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The MINI Clubman Concept is broad and athletic in the rear view. The familiar MINI cascading - a staggering of multiple layers - gives the automobile a very solid standing and a muscular wheel orientation when seen from the rear. The most striking rear elements are the characteristic split doors. The typical continuous door frame is no longer made of sheet metal. The door graphic itself provides the frame surrounding the entire rear section like a discreet bracket. This newly elaborated design gives the whole rear a reduced, modern appearance. The horizontally positioned rear lights have a highly detailed finish. Their shape underscores the car's broad standing and the dynamic orientation of the rear section. Selected chrome accents such as the "Clubman" inscription, the MINI emblem on the left-hand door and the door handles are specific details which emphasise the high-quality aspiration of the MINI Clubman Concept.<br />
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As in the front section, the aerodynamically optimised bumper finishes off the rear to the road.<br />
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<b>Exclusivity and function interpreted in contemporary style - the interior design.</b><br />
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Along with the exterior, the interior of the MINI Clubman Concept has also grown to larger dimensions. With four doors and five fully-fledged seats, the MINI Clubman Concept offers plenty of space for the pursuit of an active lifestyle.<br />
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The new dimensions are brought to life by means of generous surfaces and more sophisticated spatial effect. The underlying design theme in the interior is the characteristic ellipse. Precise and contoured in its shaping, it comes over as more sophisticated while clearly displaying its origins. Around the ellipses, the interaction between several levels and surfaces adds lightness and a three-dimensional feel to the interior.<br />
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The unusual materials are especially worthy of mention: nubuck leather in a light Sky Blue, patent leather in rich Berry Red and black soft nappa leather ensure an exclusive interior atmosphere which is highly expressive. In between, elements in patinised silver add high-end accentuations. The patina gives them the character of familiar, fondly used items. Decorative strips in blue limed ash grain convey cool, modern elegance. The two highly expressive fabrics Tweed Grey and Black Twill set an attractive counterpoint to the classic value attributes of wood, leather, silver, thereby creating the familiar MINI interior experience. Small details such as the buttons with Union Jack embossment on the seats and central console, contrast stitching, piping or red accentuation surfaces in the sunblinds which only appear when these are folded down all add a touch of surprise to the mature character of the MINI Clubman Concept.<br />
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<b>High-end sophistication and presence - the instrument panel.</b><br />
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The interior element of the MINI Clubman Concept with the most powerful presence is the leather-covered instrument panel. With a surround in blue limed ash grain and a white porcelain finish, the black upper section of the instrument panel has a hovering appearance. Indirect rear lighting of the gap reinforces this impression and gives the area in front of the driver and front passenger an extremely high-end ambience. The linear air vents have patinised, silver-plated surrounds. Between the air vents there is an area in Black Chrome which can be back-lit if required that provides additional information for the driver and front passenger. The suggested "Faded Diamonds" rhombus pattern gives the Black Chrome surface a particularly high-quality structure. The lower section of the instrument panel is finished in Berry Red patent leather, providing an extrovert yet sophisticated contrast to the more discreet design of the upper half.<br />
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<b>Multi-layered and light - the door design.</b><br />
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The newly interpreted ellipse in the side runs dynamically across the two doors to create a visual link between front and rear. The armrests in blue nubuck leather appear to hover in the doors, while behind them there are practical storage compartments. The decorative surfaces in the doors have indirect backlighting to underscore the inviting, contemporary ambience. The side mirrors and roof liner recede discreetly into the background due to use of high-quality fabric Tweed Grey in salt-and-pepper look, while the quality weave of the fabric Black Twill with classic black-and-white contrast on the floor and mats makes for an elegant finish.<br />
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The concept of spatial function in the rear is rounded off with clever storage facilities in the split doors as well as a double load floor. The pouches in the doors are elaborately fitted with nubuck leather in Silk White. They are placed within convenient reach and help make optimum use of space in the luggage compartment. The double load floor provides additional storage capacity.<br />
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<b>Intelligent controls.</b><br />
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The display area in the centre console (160mm x 150mm) adapts according to the content selected or the situation on the road. Three "intelligent" toggles are assigned the relevant content according to selected content or driving functions. Above and beyond this, the three toggles can also be freely programmed and assigned particular functions according preference. The haptic quality of the toggles means that the various functions can be operated during travel without looking. Here the MINI Clubman Concept has taken classic operating elements that have been a part of MINI for 55 years and consistently advanced them.<br />
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<b>Find out more about the next generation MINI Hatch, plus also register for updates and information on launch events at Specialist Cars MINI by <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/new-mini-hatch.htm">clicking here>>></a> </b>
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<b>Joan "Nani" Roma wins the 2014 Dakar Rally // Three MINI ALL4 Racing cars on the podium.</b><br />
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Joan "Nani" Roma (ES) in the yellow MINI ALL4 Racing has won the 2014 Dakar Rally. The Monster Energy X-raid Team driver finished the toughest rally challenge in the world just 5:32 minutes in front of his teammate Stéphane Peterhansel (FR) in the black MINI ALL4 Racing. Nasser Al-Attiyah (QT) in the predominantly white MINI ALL4 Racing finished 3rd. The podium was firmly in hand of the MINI cars, which once again proved to be reliable and fast throughout the whole event.<br />
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It was the first win for Nani Roma in a car at the Dakar Rally. The Spaniard had already won the event on a motorbike when it was still held in North Africa in 2004. "I'm so relieved and happy," Roma said. "It was my big goal to win the Dakar not only on a motorbike but also in a car. A dream came true for me and I want to thank everybody at X-raid and MINI for their great work!"<br />
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Roma, who has been leading the overall classification at this year's event for nine days, winning two stages in total, continued: "The MINI ALL4 Racing is a brilliant car and was extremely reliable and quick throughout the whole rally. It was fun to drive! Also a big thank you to my co-driver Michel Périn, who was a great navigator again! A great result for MINI, now it's time to celebrate!"<br />
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The 2014 Dakar Rally was one of the toughest of all time. The 9,374 km-long route led from Rosario (AR) across the Andes and the challenging Atacama desert to Valparaíso (CL) at the Pacific coast. The drivers had to face a lot of different weather conditions and soils. Gravel in the Andes and a lot of extremely fine sand in the hot Atacama desert. MINI mastered all the challenges and won 11 of the 13 stages. It was the third win in a row since MINI made its debut at the Dakar Rally in 2011.<br />
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The great reliability of the MINI ALL4 Racing, which is based on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, was underlined by the fact that all eleven cars that had started into the event crossed the finish line in Valparaíso. Seven of them finished in the top-ten, including the ones of Monster Energy X-raid Team Orlando Terranova/Paulo Fiúza (AR/PT), who finished 5th overall, and Krzysztof Holowczyc/Konstantin Zhiltsov (PL/RU), who crossed the line 6th overall.<br />
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<b>MINI at the 2014 Dakar Rally.</b><br />
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A total of eleven MINI ALL4 Racing compete in the 2014 Dakar. All are based on the MINI John Cooper Works Countryman, modified by the factory-supported X-raid Team to meet the high demands of the Dakar Rally which is today’s pinnacle of off-road motorsports. With a combination of power, reliability and efficiency the MINI ALL4 Racing proved its competiveness right from its first Dakar start in 2011 while also winning the hearts of the fans from the word go.<br />
<br />
On only its second Dakar appearance, the MINI ALL4 Racing made the big breakthrough by winning the 2012 Dakar Rally. In 2013 the MINI brand proved that its Dakar success was no flash in the pan by defending its title at the first attempt. This year, the X-raid Team and the MINI brand are aiming at clinching their third consecutive Dakar title when the 2014 Dakar ends in Valparaiso, Chile, on 18th January.<br />
<br />
<b>Find out more about the next generation MINI Hatch, plus also register for updates and information on launch events at Specialist Cars MINI by <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/new-mini-hatch.htm">clicking here>>></a> </b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-12432420224774272152014-01-16T11:58:00.000+00:002014-01-16T11:58:03.466+00:00Snow Centre Event<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nuL4r-cRcaY/UtfJAliudrI/AAAAAAAALjM/Sf8zZlsX1io/s1600/MINI+Winter+Driving+Image.jpg" /></div>
<br />
Specialist Cars enjoyed a thrilling winter driving experience at the Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead on Friday 6 December 2013.<br />
<br />
The Snow Centre, for one day only, filled their car park with snow to mirror the winter driving conditions we may well be facing very soon. Therefore, people got the opportunity to experience the benefits of the BMW and MINI Winter tyres and also the BMW xDrive and 4 wheel-drive MINI models in these snowy conditions.<br />
<br />
There was also the opportunity to hit the slopes after the test drives as the Snow Centre kindly offered specially reduced priced ski tickets to all those who attended.<br />
<br />
<b>Also at the event was:</b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>A video presentation on Winter Tyre benefits and xDrive models</li>
<li>A coffee and pastry before your test drive</li>
<li>A complimentary tyre, lights and level check on your car</li>
<li>Free Visual Heath Check for your vehicle</li>
<li>Our winter tyre range stand</li>
<li>Opportunity to purchase Anti-freeze, oil packs and screen wash</li>
</ul>
<br />
If you would like to receive information on any future Events at Specialist Cars please email the Marketing department on <a href="mailto:marketing@specialistcars.co.uk">marketing@specialistcars.co.uk</a>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-53536457788597792472013-11-29T18:40:00.001+00:002013-11-29T18:59:42.581+00:00Celebrations at MINI Plant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-b_wchOxPNyo/Upjey2_2xjI/AAAAAAAALQE/P_8_Xc_Sjeg/s1600/P90140254.jpg" /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Celebrations at MINI Plant Oxford: last of the current generation Hatch leaves production</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Over 1 million current MINI Hatch models built at Plant Oxford between 2006 – 2013</li>
<li>1,863,289 total MINI Hatch built since 2001</li>
<li>14% of all cars built in the UK last year were MINIs, and 14% exported were MINIs</li>
<li>The new MINI Hatch production starts, with UK launch in Spring 2014</li>
</ul>
Having put a smile on over a million drivers’ faces across the globe, the last of the outgoing MINI Hatch drove off the production line at Plant Oxford today.<br />
<br />
With production of the new MINI Hatch underway, associates at the brand’s historic Oxfordshire home took a moment to recognise their achievements in building a car which has formed the backbone of MINI’s burgeoning global growth.<br />
<br />
1,041,412 of the outgoing MINI Hatch model have been produced at the high-tech facility, which has built more than 2.4 million MINI vehicles since 2001. 14% of all cars built in the UK last year were MINIs, and MINIs accounted for 14% of all UK vehicle exports in 2012.<br />
<br />
When launched in 2006, the outgoing MINI Hatch saw the introduction of turbo charged engines and suspension enhancements which cemented MINI’s reputation for enthralling driving dynamics. With the introduction of MINIMALISM technologies, customers also benefited from improved fuel economy and performance in equal measure. MINI Connected appeared for the first time, setting the standard in the segment for infotainment and connectivity. This model also furthered MINI’s exciting and unique programme of customisation and personalisation, from bespoke roof designs to interior colour worlds, which has become synonymous with the MINI brand.<br />
<br />
The New MINI Hatch is set to receive its UK launch in Spring 2014. Distinctly familiar, yet completely fresh from the ground up and enhanced in every single way, the new MINI Hatch features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and – of course – personalisation.<br />
<br />
<b>Find out more about the next generation MINI Hatch, plus also register for updates and information on launch events at Specialist Cars MINI <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/new-mini-hatch.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-65789005495848363422013-11-19T14:32:00.002+00:002013-11-19T14:32:17.820+00:00New MINI Hatch Revealed.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EzGgxBMxd3g/Uotqrl4I73I/AAAAAAAALGE/NNCnvx7wRY8/s1600/P90139403-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>ALL NEW, ALL MINI: THE NEW MINI HATCH REVEALED</strong>
<br />
<ul>
<li>All-new MINI Hatch unveiled at Plant Oxford</li>
<li>Contemporary evolution of classic MINI design, with improved features and higher quality</li>
<li>Debut of new ground-breaking three-cylinder engines</li>
<li>State-of-the-art connectivity and premium technology, including new driver assistance equipment</li>
<li>New interactive display concept using LEDs</li>
<li>Outstanding MINI handling makes it even more fun to drive</li>
<li>Built in Oxford with the UK market launch in Spring 2014</li>
<li>Pricing from £15,300 OTR</li>
</ul>
<b>MINI has today unveiled the new MINI Hatch, the car which has defined a segment since 2001.</b><br />
<br />
Even though the new MINI is instantly recognisable – something which comes from having such a globally identifiable design – the car is completely new from the ground up. Every component has been back to the drawing board in an effort to optimise its function, performance and style.<br />
<br />
The result is ‘The New Original’, a MINI which is distinctly familiar but enhanced in every single way. It features significant improvements in technology, engine efficiency and power delivery, driving dynamics, quality and – of course – personalisation. Inside, the new MINI Hatch is quieter than the outgoing model, with improvements to acoustic refinement inside the cabin.<br />
<br />
The new MINI Hatch is more spacious than before, safer, finished to an even higher standard and provides the driver with a more dynamic and performance-oriented experience behind the wheel.<br />
<br />
Inside the cabin, new technology ensures that the new MINI is the most connected car in its segment. A new LED display concept, the first of its kind, provides the driver with visual feedback whilst operating the car and creates a premium ambience. It reflects a maturity and confidence in the brand’s design and engineering, a car which pays tribute to its unique British heritage yet stands ready to lead MINI into the second half of the decade and beyond.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Qs-wQxlehh8/Uotqp8BQLyI/AAAAAAAALF0/KoT0pDnUhTU/s1600/P90139360-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>New MINI in detail</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Exterior: unmistakable design, contemporary style</strong><br />
<br />
The body of the new MINI is 3,821mm long (MINI Cooper S is 3,850mm), 1,727mm wide and 1,414mm tall. This makes it 98mm longer, 44mm wider and 7mm taller than its predecessor. The wheelbase has been extended by 28mm, while the track width has been enlarged at the front by 42mm and at the rear by 34mm.<br />
<br />
Behind the changes, the new car has classic MINI proportions and an instantly familiar design that’s packed with character. Traditional cues such as the hexagonal contour of the radiator grille, circular headlights, ‘side scuttle’ indicator surrounds, upright rear light clusters and black lower body edging have all been subtly reinterpreted.<br />
<br />
In profile, the tapering line of the glass creates a dynamic wedge shape. Below, a visual link between the front and rear wheel arches comes via a striking lower sill line and upper character line, which feature downward curves at both ends.<br />
<br />
The new MINI is the first car in its segment to offer the option of LED headlamps for both dipped and main beam. They are surrounded by an LED daylight driving ring, the lower section of which reaches down to the white turn indicators. The rear light clusters also feature an all-LED design.<br />
<br />
Five new exterior colours have been added to MINI’s already extensive palette, while the roof and exterior mirror caps can be finished in a contrasting colour –black or white– as a no-cost option. Roof rails are available for the new MINI for the first time. Other ways of adding a touch of individual style include black or white bonnet stripes.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HyQI9-DVOrk/Uotqp8bSjfI/AAAAAAAALFw/obuhw8Hd0gE/s1600/P90139354-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Interior: hallmark MINI style, new display and operating concept</strong><br />
<br />
The new MINI’s exterior dimensions mean greater room for up to four occupants and their luggage, including enhanced shoulder space and larger footwells. The front seats have been given a wider adjustment range, and the base has been lengthened by 23mm for additional comfort and support. A choice of fabric or leather finishes, or a combination of both, is available. It’s also easier than ever for rear seat passengers to gain access to the back.<br />
<br />
The rear bench seat back can be split 60:40. For even greater practicality, the optional storage package includes a luggage compartment floor which can be locked into place at various points and the rear seat backrest features tilt-angle adjustment. Boot volume has been increased by more than 30 per cent to 211 litres. Numerous cupholders and storage facilities make life easier for occupants.<br />
<br />
With an instantly recognisable design, state-of-the-art functionality and premium colour/material combinations, there’s no mistaking the dashboard of the new MINI Hatch. The horizontal structure of the cockpit, linked to circular and elliptical details, remains, but has evolved to take on a more sophisticated form.<br />
<br />
At the heart of the design changes is a new display and operating concept, illustrated by the instrument cluster on the steering column. Speed, revs and fuel level are displayed on vertically arranged circular dials. The speedometer scale includes a colour panel for messages and vehicle status displays.<br />
<br />
The iconic central instrument now has extended functionality. Depending on the optional equipment chosen, it can serve as a four-line TFT display as standard or optional colour screen up to 8.8-inches showing vehicle functions, infotainment, navigation and MINI Connected services. Selection of these functions is performed via a choice of two new controllers, the MINI Controller or MINI Touch Controller, fitted in the centre console which come in conjunction with MINI Visual Boost Radio or the MINI Navigation System.<br />
<br />
Groundbreaking LED lighting around the new MINI Hatch’s central instrument provides visual feedback to the current situation on the road and to specific operational steps, according to the driver’s preference. 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. A change in the car’s driving mode confirmed by LED units which light up in blue, orange or red. Route guidance information provided by the MINI Navigation System is also visually supported by the illuminated ring: the closer the car gets to the turn-off point, the smaller the lit-up area around the edge of the central instrument.<br />
<br />
Keyless-go is now standard across the MINI Hatch range. The start/stop toggle switch located in the middle of the centre console features a heartbeat illumination which pulses before the engine is started. A number of switches have been relocated for improved usability, including those for the electric windows, which are now integrated into the door trim.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XrOS6JrnNlY/UotquCkVnhI/AAAAAAAALG8/RgdFjj7dAIw/s1600/P90139310-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>Powertrains: three all-new engines, three all-new gearboxes</strong><br />
<br />
The new MINI Hatch features a range of three entirely new engines, each featuring MINI TwinPower Turbo Technology to increase driving fun and improve environmental efficiency. The trio all offer improved performance figures, with maximum power across all three variants produced lower down the rev range, while fuel consumption and emission levels have been reduced by as much as 27 per cent when compared to their predecessor models. All meet the stringent EU6 exhaust emissions criteria.<br />
<br />
The new MINI Cooper Hatch has a three-cylinder petrol engine with a peak output of 134bhp. The new MINI Cooper S Hatch is powered by a four-cylinder petrol engine which develops 189bhp. The new MINI Cooper D Hatch comes with a three-cylinder diesel engine with an output of 114bhp. For fuel efficiency this latter model is the undoubted star performer, with average combined economy of 80.7mpg using the EU test cycle.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Jx_VDWcgUKg/UotqlU0pk2I/AAAAAAAALEQ/4YzGH7OPOI4/s1600/P90139184-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<table cellpadding="3" cellspacing="3" style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Engine </strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%"></td>
<td valign="top" width="21%"><strong>MINI Cooper Hatch</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="24%"><strong>MINI Cooper D Hatch</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="24%"><strong>MINI Cooper S Hatch</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Type/no. of cylinders/valves</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%"></td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">in-line / 3 / 4</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">in-line / 3 / 4</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">in-line / 4 / 4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Capacity</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">cc</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">1499</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">1496</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">1998</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Bore/stroke</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">mm</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">82.0 / 94.6</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">84.0 / 90.0</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">82.0 / 94.6</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Compression</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">:1</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">11.0</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">16.5</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">11.0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Output</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">kW/bhp</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">100 / 134</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">85 / 114</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">141 / 189</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>at engine speed</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">rpm</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">4500 – 6000</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">4000</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">4700 – 6000</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Torque (with overboost)</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">Nm</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">220 (230)</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">270</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">280 (300)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>at engine speed</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%">rpm</td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">1250 – 4000</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">1750</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">1250 – 4750</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<br />
A six-speed manual transmission is standard featuring rev matching on downward shifts and a six-speed automatic transmission is available as an option on each engine. The automatic transmission sees efficiency improvements against the outgoing model, making a significant contribution towards reducing CO2 levels. For example, the outgoing MINI Cooper D Automatic Hatch produces 135g/km CO2 with the new MINI Cooper D Hatch producing 98g/km CO2.<br />
<br />
Both transmission systems are newly developed. The auto features an engine start/stop function for the first time, 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.<br />
<br />
Now on the options list is a third transmission, a six-speed sports automatic transmission which enables even shorter shift times, features rev matching on downward shifts and can be operated in manual mode using shift paddles behind the steering wheel.<br />
<br />
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 on manual cars and optimised preheating process on the diesel. Brake energy recuperation and need-oriented control of the fuel pump, coolant pump and other ancillary units feature on all models.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8R8pZ5gi57o/UotqnwI7a5I/AAAAAAAALFM/gVQE08PO5KI/s1600/P90139283-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Optimised suspension: less weight, even more fun to drive</strong><br />
<br />
The suspension in the new MINI has been extensively revised. A new single-joint spring strut axle at the front and a multi-link axle at the rear intensify the MINI Hatch’s unique handling properties.<br />
<br />
In order to reduce weight and increase component rigidity, the new front axle is fitted with aluminium swivel bearings as well as axle supports and wishbones made of high-strength steel. This supports the agile turn-in response and precise steering of the new MINI. At the rear, the share of high-strength steel used in the axle has been increased.<br />
<br />
All improvements are aimed at intensifying the MINI’s handling responses, better known as that famous ‘go-kart’ feeling. Engineers have worked hard on the suspension to improve the acoustic refinement in the MINI’s cabin and eliminate vibrations from the road surface after chassis testing on UK roads.<br />
<br />
Also new to the car is Variable Damper Control. Available as an option, it presents drivers with the choice of two distinct set-ups, a more comfort-oriented response or a more sporty and firm one.<br />
<br />
The new MINI Cooper Hatch and MINI Cooper D Hatch ride on 15-inch forged light alloy wheels, which have low weight and excellent aerodynamics. The MINI Cooper S Hatch is fitted with 16-inch light alloy wheels as standard. Rims up to 18 inches in diameter are available as optional extras.<br />
<br />
Highly resilient bearing structures, deformation zones and an extremely stable passenger cell are all part of the new MINI’s design. Together these provide an excellent basis for keeping impact energy away from passengers and ensuring maximum occupant protection. The standard safety fittings include front and side airbags as well as curtain airbags for the front and rear seats, automatic passenger airbag deactivation and front and rear ISOFIX. The aim is to achieve maximum scores on all the relevant crash tests worldwide.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PM_RtThtvU8/UotqmoQDUaI/AAAAAAAALE0/KuPLHqx7_Kk/s1600/P90139230-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>High-end features for comfort, functionality and individual style</strong><br />
<br />
The increased standard specification on the new MINI includes 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. 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, visibility package including windscreen heating, rain sensor 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.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-t6vleAJjM9Y/UotqlAhUvtI/AAAAAAAALEM/SqbL8yvhL-o/s1600/P90139195-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<br />
<strong>MINI Connected: more connected than ever</strong><br />
<br />
MINI Connected or MINI Connected XL is also available in conjunction with the MINI Visual Boost Radio and the MINI Navigation System. 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.<br />
<br />
MINI Connected XL includes the Journey Mate function for networked navigation, with Real Time Traffic Information.<br />
<br />
In future, both the MINI Connected app and MINI Connected-ready apps supplied by third-party providers will be available not just for the Apple iPhone but also for smartphones using the Android operating system.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
Another innovative feature is the permanently installed SIM card. This new 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.<br />
<br />
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.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3cKzkFiurdw/UotqnPfp1mI/AAAAAAAALE8/zAP35REW-3U/s1600/P90139235-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Driver assistance systems: new MINI, new technology</strong><br />
<br />
The new MINI Hatch signals the introduction of a range of technologies which are making their brand debut. They include the MINI Head-Up-Display which shows information relevant to the driver on an extendable monitor in the upper section of the dashboard. Also new is the 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 new MINI for the first time.<br />
<br />
In addition to ABS anti-lock brakes, electronic brake force distribution (EBD), cornering brake control (CBC) with brake assistant, the driving stability control system (DSC) in the new MINI 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.<br />
<br />
The new MINI Cooper S features a performance control system, which counteracts any tendency to understeer prior to reaching the threshold level, supporting an agile yet neutral driving response in corners.<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CjbllfE6sv4/Uotqm_IVaXI/AAAAAAAALFE/fR29PtG7L1s/s1600/P90139215-highRes.jpg" style="font-weight: normal;" /></strong></div>
<br />
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>MINI Driving Modes: a basis for fuel-efficient motoring</strong><br />
<strong><br /></strong>
Another new innovation and brand debut is MINI Driving Modes, an optional extra on the new MINI Hatch. 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. The latter includes decoupling of the drivetrain – better known as ‘coasting’ – when the driver removes their foot from the accelerator pedal. MINI Driving Modes also influences the ambient lighting, shift characteristics of the automatic transmission and the Variable Damper Control if the option is selected.<br />
<br />
<strong>Personalisation: more of what people love</strong><br />
<br />
MINI pioneered the concept of automotive personalisation and that spirit of individuality continues with the new Hatch. The list of interior and exterior customisable components, and the options for them, is extensive. Most popular are expected to be a John Cooper Works rear spoiler, various decorative trims for roof, exterior mirrors, bonnet, seat upholstery, interior surfaces and new Colour Lines.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--F83LdQjJmU/Uotqj9xSiEI/AAAAAAAALEA/qtvmUq4ZKUc/s1600/P90139135-highRes.jpg" /></div>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>Pricing </strong><br />
<br />
The new MINI Cooper Hatch now starts at £15,300 OTR. This represents only a 2.61 per cent increase compared against the outgoing model and customers benefit from a host of additional equipment including adjustable exterior mirrors, air-conditioning, front fog lamps, onboard computer, MINI Radio including aux-in, USB interface and Bluetooth all as standard. The MINI Cooper D Hatch’s OTR price of £16,450 represents only a 1.64 per cent increase verses the outgoing model. Completing the range is the MINI Cooper S Hatch starting from £18,650.<br />
<br />
<table cellpadding="3" cellspacing="3" style="width: 100%px;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>Pricing </strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%"></td>
<td valign="top" width="21%"><strong>MINI Cooper Hatch</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="24%"><strong>MINI Cooper D Hatch</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="24%"><strong>MINI Cooper S Hatch</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td valign="top" width="23%"><strong>OTR cost</strong></td>
<td valign="top" width="6%"></td>
<td valign="top" width="21%">£15,300</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">£16,450</td>
<td valign="top" width="24%">£18,650</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<strong><br /></strong>
<strong>New MINI Hatch: coming soon</strong><br />
<br />
The new MINI Hatch will be built in Britain at Plant Oxford, a state-of-the-art facility which celebrated 100 years of car production in Oxford during 2013. The car will launch in the UK and globally in Spring 2014.<br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a>.</b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-81119616910481052522013-10-18T16:09:00.000+01:002013-10-18T16:09:45.366+01:00MINI Frozen Black metallic<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>Highlight in matt: MINI now with exclusive Frozen Black metallic paint finish.</b><br />
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MINI is extending its program of exterior paint finishes for current models to include an exclusive new variant. Frozen Black metallic paint is now available as a limited edition colour for the top of the range MINI Countryman and MINI Paceman models. This innovative paint which has a textured, shimmering matt finish, gives the car a striking and expressive appearance. The new colour and finish is available for the MINI Cooper S Countryman, MINI Cooper SD Countryman, MINI Cooper S Paceman, MINI Cooper SD Paceman, MINI John Cooper Works Countryman and MINI John Cooper Works Paceman.<br />
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The Frozen Black metallic paint finish is created using a complex manufacturing process exclusive to the BMW Group. This special painting procedure, which involves not just innovative technology but also a high level of manual craftsmanship, is now being applied for the first time by Austrian production partner Magna Steyr in Graz where the MINI Paceman and MINI Countryman are produced. The special surface treatment encompasses the base layer for grip and corrosion protection, the colour layer as well as the clear lacquer finish which has added silicates to create the matted impression as well as the velvet effect which can be seen and felt.<br />
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Attached exterior parts such as the model-specific front and rear aprons and the exterior mirror caps are finished separately in the paint finish Frozen Black metallic. Due to the labour intensive process used to apply this exclusive body colour during production it is limited to a restricted number of cars.<br />
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Frozen Black metallic is of the same high quality as the other paint finishes available for MINI in terms of abrasion resistance and colour fidelity. The finish is completely weather resistant and car wash resistant, however hand washing does require special care as spot cleaning of the surface using wax or polish can leave an unwanted gloss effect. For this reason the BMW Group offers care products developed specially for treating the Frozen Black metallic paint finish. <br />
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<b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a></b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8746672238944433174.post-16185590775158123682013-10-11T13:19:00.000+01:002013-10-11T13:20:59.663+01:00MINI driver assist systems.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<b>The new MINI driver assist systems. </b><br />
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Intelligent networking between the MINI, the driver and the outside world create new ways to enhance driving pleasure, extend the range of comfort functions and provide the latest services in the area of in-car infotainment. Since its launch, MINI Connected has been marketing leading in the area of in-car technology, pioneering access to apps and services to both assist and entertain driver and passengers.<br />
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In future models MINI will roll out a number of innovative driver assist systems that also use intelligent networking for the exchange of information between driver and vehicle. The new functions transform the MINI more than ever into its driver's assistant and offer innovative comfort and safety technology.<br />
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When it comes to the development and configuration of new driver assist systems, MINI exploits the BMW Groups' worldwide leadership in innovation in this area. Networking technology has been used for the targeted exchange of information between driver, vehicle and the outside world for more than 40 years. Innovations like the radar-based distance warning device (1972), the world's first on-board computer with exterior temperature display (1980), the first navigation system fully integrated in the vehicle from a European manufacturer (1994) and first Emergency Call system, still unique to this day, first introduced in 1997, are among the milestones set by the company in this area. As early as 2007, interface technology for integrating the Apple iPhone in the MINI operating system was introduced. Since 2011, additional online-based functions can be integrated in the MINI Connected package with the help of apps. <br />
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The MINI head-up display helps the driver concentrate on what is happening on the road by displaying relevant information right in the driver's line of vision. This can be seen quickly and conveniently without having to take your eyes off the road. The collision warning and pedestrian warning systems, including city braking function make it easier to avoid dangerous situations, particularly in city traffic. The MINI parking assist feature offers maximum comfort in searching for and using parking spaces, while the reversing camera gives drivers a better view when manoeuvring. <br />
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Other innovations in the driver assist systems for MINI include the video-based speed and distance control which automatically keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front, and the speed limit information system, which detects and displays speed limits as they apply to the current section of road. This system is supplemented by the no passing display and traffic sign memory functions. The digital headlight assist function contributes to optimum visual conditions when driving at night. This system helps the driver use the full range of headlight functions. Oncoming traffic and preceding vehicles are registered by a camera, while automatic switching to dimmed headlights avoids causing a nuisance for other drivers.<br />
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<br /><b>For the best offers on new MINI in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire please visit the Specialist Cars MINI website <a href="http://www.specialistcarsmini.co.uk/mini-deals.htm">CLICK HERE</a></b>Anonymousnoreply@blogger.com